In today’s dynamic and interconnected global marketplace, regulatory clarity and consistency are more crucial than ever. At the European Federation for Cosmetic Ingredients (EFfCI), our mission is rooted in the belief that open, fair, and science-based dialogue among industry stakeholders and regulatory authorities is the bedrock for a thriving cosmetic sector—one where innovation and safety walk hand in hand.

EFfCI plays a central role in fostering this harmonized conversation. We serve as a bridge between our members, who represent a wide and diverse array of companies involved in the development and manufacture of cosmetic ingredients, and the regulatory bodies that shape the landscape in which they operate. Our goal is to promote a consistent and balanced regulatory environment that facilitates not only compliance but also innovation and international competitiveness.

This is no small task, especially in a field as complex and evolving as that of cosmetic ingredients. At its foundation lies a set of robust regulatory frameworks, particularly the EU’s REACH Regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) and the Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) Regulation. These instruments provide the technical and scientific infrastructure necessary for ensuring that substances used in cosmetics are safe for human health and the environment. Furthermore, the Cosmetic Products Regulation (CPR) provides additional specificity for products intended for consumer use.

REACH and CLP are not only European cornerstones; they are increasingly being referenced and adapted around the world. As these regulations serve as models for other jurisdictions, EFfCI has positioned itself as a thought leader in ensuring that this adoption process respects both the scientific rigor and the practical realities of ingredient manufacturers.

At the heart of all regulation—whether in the EU or abroad—must lie a thorough, evidence-based safety assessment. This is the North Star. A comprehensive safety evaluation of cosmetic ingredients is essential not only for ensuring consumer protection but also for safeguarding workers and minimizing environmental impact. It is this principle that guides EFfCI’ s activities, consultations, and guidance documents.

Yet safety and science alone are not enough. A regulation that is scientifically sound but disconnected from industrial realities risks stalling progress rather than supporting it. That is why EFfCI places equal emphasis on the practical implementation of regulatory frameworks. We work tirelessly to ensure that regulations are translated into actionable steps that companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, can realistically achieve.

This means advocating for realistic timelines for implementation, promoting transparency in regulatory expectations, and facilitating dialogue when interpretations of regulations are unclear or inconsistent across regions. It also means ensuring that companies are not left alone to navigate a complex web of overlapping requirements, from REACH and CLP to national, regional and international interpretations of cosmetic-specific regulations.

Cosmetic ingredient manufacturers face a unique challenge in that their regulatory obligations are multi-layered. First and foremost, they must comply with horizontal chemical legislation such as each regional REACH, EU-CLP and GHS globally speaking. Only once these obligations are fulfilled can they move on to the sector-specific regulations governing cosmetic products, which vary between jurisdictions. For companies operating in global markets, this creates a pressing need for harmonization, not only within Europe but across continents.

EFfCI is uniquely positioned to lead on this front. Our members operate in a variety of legal and cultural contexts, and our work reflects this diversity. We advocate for alignment wherever possible, recognizing that harmonization brings enormous benefits: reduced administrative burden, increased predictability, and improved access to international markets. We also work to ensure that regional adaptations of REACH-like frameworks remain compatible with their European roots.

It is important to recognize that regulatory landscapes are not static. They evolve in response to emerging scientific data, societal concerns, and political priorities. Whether it is the increasing focus on environmental sustainability, new scientific findings on substance safety, or growing consumer expectations for transparency and traceability, EFfCI is committed to ensuring that the voice of cosmetic ingredient manufacturers is heard during the legislative process. We work to ensure that changes are grounded in science and implemented with due regard for industrial feasibility.

Moreover, we understand that adapting to regulatory changes requires time and resources. EFfCI strives to give our members the tools, information, and foresight they need to adapt proactively, not reactively. By staying at the forefront of regulatory developments and translating them into clear, timely guidance, we empower companies to navigate the future with confidence.

Ultimately, EFfCI’ s work is about more than just compliance. It is about building a resilient, innovative, and responsible cosmetic ingredient sector that contributes to the well-being of consumers and the sustainability of our planet. Through our collaborative approach, we foster a regulatory environment that supports not only safety and quality but also creativity, competitiveness, and growth.

As we look ahead, EFfCI remains steadfast in its commitment to harmonization, scientific integrity, and industry alignment. By working together, industry, regulators, and stakeholders alike, we can continue to shape a regulatory ecosystem that benefits all.