Asbestos Testing in the U.S., Changes to UK Cosmetic Regulation and Toothpaste Classification in China

U.S. FDA Withdraws Rule for Asbestos Testing in Talc-Containing Cosmetics

In December 2024, the U.S. FDA published the proposed rule, “Testing Methods for Detecting and Identifying Asbestos in Talc-Containing Cosmetic Products,” in the Federal Register, pursuant to the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA). This would require testing cosmetic products containing talc to identify and detect asbestos, a known human carcinogen, as a potential contaminant. On 28th November 2025, the FDA announced the withdrawal of this proposed rule, citing comments received during the consultation period which require further consideration before establishing standardised testing methods.

Click here for the announcement in the Federal Register.

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UK Notifies WTO of Amendments to GB Cosmetic Regulation

On 27th November 2025, the UK notified the WTO of a draft amendment to the Cosmetic Products Regulation. Thirteen new CMR substances are to be added to Annex 2 (prohibited substances) and hexyl salicylate is to be added to Annex 3 (restricted substances). Hexyl salicylate is a Cat 2 reprotoxic substance found to be safe at certain limits in cosmetic products after evaluation by the SAG-CS.

You can find the WTO notification here.

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China NMPA Solicits Public Opinions on the Toothpaste Classification Catalogue

On 1st December 2025, China's NMPA (National Medicinal Products Administration) released the "Toothpaste Classification Catalogue (Draft for Comments)" and is now soliciting public opinions until 22nd December 2025.

Click here for the announcement and relevant documents.