Japan MHLW Warns Against the Use of Cysteamine in Hair Perming Products

On 18 Dec, Japan MHLW issued warnings against the use of cosmetic products containing cysteamine and its salts. Cysteamine is a perming agent which may pose reproductive toxicity risks according to several cosmetic companies.

Cysteamine Hydrochloride is widely used in rinse-off perming products. An investigation conducted by the Japan Permanent Waving Lotion Industry Association (JPWLIA) shows that currently there are approximately 200 kinds of hair perming products using the substance in Japan. Although so far America and EU don't restrict the use of cosmetic products with the substance and no reports show its use results in adverse effects, the potential negative health effects are alarming. Some animal testing reports and papers published indicate cysteamine poses a health risk.

In response, JPWLIA has revised the standard for ingredients used in rinse-off hair perming products. Under the revised standard, the concentration of cysteamine or its salts (e.g. thioglycolic acid) in cosmetic products should not exceed 7 % and the purity of cysteamine should not exceed 5.86%. Additionally ,cosmetics companies are required to label products with warnings such as “this product should not come into contact with face, neck, etc. and towels or protective emulsions should be used to prevent contamination”; “if the product touches the skin, use clean or warm water to rinse and then use wet towel to wipe gently”; “after use of this product, please rinse your fingers clean of all residue”; and “if suffering from dermatitis or dry skin, please do not allow direct contact with effected area or employ the use of a protective glove”. 

Reference Link

MHLW: warnings for the use of cosmetic products containing cysteamine