Plastics in the clear

Published: 4-May-2006


A detailed European Commission review of certain phthalates and other plasticisers has decided that plastic ingredients linked to chemicals banned in the EU for toys can continue to be used by the cosmetics industry. Some of these products have been restricted in toys because children mouthing them have developed illnesses.

A Brussels review has concluded no further restrictions are required for three chemicals used in cosmetics. These are:

• Dibutylphthalate - standard product health checks are sufficient

• Ethylenediaminetetraacetate and methyl acetate - existing risk reduction measures are effective, said the Commission. However, for cosmetics industry workers, additional controls may be needed for methyl acetate, because of potential respiratory irritations.

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