New Zealand EPA Bans PFAS in Cosmetics

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) of New Zealand released a ban on the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in cosmetic products by changing the Cosmetic Products Group Standard on January 30, 2024.¹ 

New Zealand is one of the first countries to protect consumers and the environment from PFAS. PFAS are often used in cosmetic products such as nail polish, shaving cream, foundation, lipstick, and mascara to enhance skin smoothness, durability, spreadability, and water resistance. However, these chemicals persist in the environment and can accumulate in the human body, potentially causing toxicity at high levels.

The decision to ban PFAS in cosmetics is part of New Zealand's precautionary approach to mitigating potential risks associated with these chemicals.

To ensure the safety of cosmetic products, regulate non-hazardous cosmetic products containing hazardous ingredients, and align with the rules in Europe, in addition to the PFAS ban, the Standard has undergone some other updates: 

• including the non-hazardous cosmetic products that contain a hazardous substance in the Standard

• updating the record-keeping requirements for nanomaterials

• updating the ingredients scopes, amending clauses and conditions for label exemptions

• improving the format, presentation, and searchability, etc. 

The Committee agreed the amendments will have the following transitional provisions