[Updated] Japan Approves A New Ingredient for Rinse-off Hair Styling Products

Editor's note: This article was originally published on March 13, 2024, and was updated on July 12, 2024, as per the latest developments. The updated contents are marked in red below.

On March 8, 2024, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan released a proposal for the Standards for Cosmetics, inviting public consultation. The proposal requests the inclusion of "Cysteamine Hydrochloride". The proposal was finalized on July 12, 2024, and came into force upon issuance.

Background：

The Standards for Cosmetics provides guidelines for ingredient formulation restrictions based on the type or purpose of cosmetics listed Appendix 2. This Appendix currently covers limitations on ingredients, excluding preservatives, UV absorbers, and tar colorants, specifying their names and maximum allowable concentrations per 100g.

On March 7, 2024, Japan conducted discussions during the Pharmaceutical and Food Safety Evaluation Council's Cosmetic and Quasi-Drug Subcommittee meeting, addressing the proposed inclusion of "Cysteamine Hydrochloride" as a new restriction requirement.

Revised Content:

The proposal aims to add "Cysteamine Hydrochloride" as an ingredient for hair styling products that are exclusively intended for hair application and rinsing off. This addition will be categorized under two classifications: "Hair styling products used exclusively on the hair and rinsed off" and "Other cosmetics excluding hair styling products used exclusively on the hair and rinsed off."

The revised standards are anticipated to take effect in late June 2024. Upon implementation, cosmetic manufacturers and distributors must comply with the updated guidelines, which may involve modifying product formulations, manufacturing processes, labeling, and quality control measures.