Managing CMR substances under the UK Cosmetics Regulation

At the beginning of the post-Brexit era, the UK Cosmetics Regulation (UKCR) was initially aligned with the European Cosmetics Regulation. However, over time, it appears that the UK has been diverging from EU regulation, particularly in the area of ingredient management. A clear example of this shift is evident in the recently released guide by the Office for Product Safety & Standards (OPSS) on 5 October 2023. The guide outlines exemptions from the prohibition on using CMR (Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, or Toxic for Reproduction) substances in cosmetics.