The Swedish Chemicals Agency (Kemi) is calling for a review of certain preservatives that are approved under the EU cosmetics regulation, so that substances with problematic environmental or health properties can be restricted.

Since these chemicals were assessed, new knowledge has emerged that EU cosmetics legislation does not take into account, Kemi said, adding that while the use of preservatives that can cause problems to health and the environment is low in Sweden, it is important to ensure levels do not increase.

In a report submitted to the Swedish government, Kemi investigated 19 preservatives used in cosmetic products and has prioritized seven for review: chlorobutanol; p-chloro-m-cresol; chloroxylenol; bromochlorophene; chlorophene; chlorhexidine and dichlorobenzyl alcohol. 

In its assessment, the agency found that seven of the preservatives it investigated have a high potential to cause allergies. With regard to contact dermatitis, Kemi said it is especially important to reduce exposure to the commonly used mixture of methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and methylisothiazolinone (MI).

It is also calling for restrictions on preservatives such as triclosan and mercury because their frequent use is suspected to contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Kemi said the most problematic substances should be restricted through the EU’s REACH chemical regulation rather than through the introduction of Swedish national legislation on cosmetic products.