Attachment to the targeted Consultation on the Evaluation of the Cosmetic Products Regulation

The objectives of the Cosmetic Products Regulation (CPR) to protect human health and ensure the proper functioning of the EU single market remain highly relevant and, to some extent, have been achieved through the establishment of a harmonised regulatory framework. However, while the CPR addresses important issues, such as the regulation of carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reprotoxic (CMR) substances, and provides a basis for market harmonisation, its effectiveness remains limited. Some loopholes in its scope, procedural provisions, and enforcement mechanisms undermine both human health and environmental protection and somewhat weaken the integrity of the single market. Moreover, key elements of the Chemicals Sustainability Strategy should be integrated. This includes but is not limited to the fact that greater alignment with horizontal chemicals legislation is needed, including the adoption of a One Health approach, better consideration of mixture effects, the application of generic risk assessment, and a stronger use of the precautionary principle. In particular, the rapid expansion of online sales of cosmetic products presents a major challenge. E-commerce channels frequently operate beyond the reach of traditional market surveillance tools, leading to substantial enforcement deficits and increased risks for consumers.