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On May 20, 2026, Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) issued notifications reinforcing existing safety requirements for hair cosmetics containing henna and henna-derived substances. The action was prompted by a report released by the National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan (NCAC), which documented cases of anaphylaxis linked to henna products containing oxidation dyes. According to the investigation, some affected products lacked adequate precautionary information regarding allergy risks and patch testing on their packaging.
In response, MHLW instructed prefectural and municipal health authorities to disseminate the existing henna-related safety requirements to cosmetic businesses and relevant industry organizations under their jurisdiction. The measure aims to strengthen consumer awareness of potential allergic reactions and improve compliance with labeling requirements.
Key Revision
The notification does not introduce new regulatory restrictions on henna or henna-derived ingredients. Instead, it reinforces the precautionary framework established under MHLW's September 2006 notification on hair cosmetics containing henna and henna-derived substances. Under this framework, manufacturers are required to provide clear warnings regarding allergy risks and recommend pre-use skin testing.
A key amendment in the 2026 notification is the update of a regulatory cross-reference. The previous reference to a 2007 notification on precautions for hair dyes, bleaching agents, and hair color removers has been replaced with the current 2021 guidance, ensuring consistency with Japan's latest hair dye safety requirements.
Labelling Requirements
The core labeling requirements remain unchanged. Hair cosmetics containing henna or henna-derived ingredients must display the following precautions on the container or outer packaging:
Discontinue use if the product causes irritation or is unsuitable for the skin. Individuals who have previously experienced allergic reactions or rashes from hair dyes should exercise particular caution.
Always perform a skin (patch) test before use.
In addition, detailed instructions for conducting the patch test must be provided in package inserts or other accompanying materials.
Transition Arrangement
For products manufactured after the issuance of the notification, companies are expected to implement the required labeling revisions as soon as possible and no later than one year from implementation. During the transition period, supplementary leaflets, stickers, or other explanatory materials may be used to communicate the required precautions.
Overall, the notification reflects MHLW's continued emphasis on allergy risk communication and consumer safety. While no new ingredient restrictions have been introduced, companies marketing henna-containing hair cosmetics in Japan should review product labeling and patch-test instructions to ensure full compliance with the reinforced requirements.
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