Cosmetics containing nanoparticles will undergo a safety assessment procedure starting in 2012, according to regulations passed this month by the European Parliament. The legislation replaces national rules for cosmetics with a single EU-wide set of regulations. Cosmetic ingredients that contain nanoparticles will be subject to additional submission criteria. If questions about the safety of a nanoparticle exist, the EU’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety will be asked to render an opinion. An estimated 5% of cosmetic products contain nanoparticles, according to the European Commission. A nanoparticle is defined as “an insoluble or bioresistant and intentionally manufactured material with one or more external dimensions, or an internal structure on the scale from 1 to 100 nm.” The new regulations also updates labeling requirements, adds new rules for hair colorants, and restricts the use of substances that are carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction.

Source: European Parliament