Health Canada is seeking stakeholder's comments and feedback regarding potential amendments to the Cosmetic Regulations.

The main objective of this regulatory initiative would be to better inform consumers about the presence of specific fragrance allergens in cosmetics that are currently captured on labels under the word "parfum". Disclosure of this information on labels of cosmetics would help strengthen consumer decision-making and help to protect their health.

The following amendments are being considered by Health Canada:

1. Add a requirement to disclose specific fragrance allergens on labels of cosmetic
2. Allow flexibility for the disclosure of ingredients and specific fragrance allergens on labels of small packages
3. Improve oversight of cosmetics by:
   • clarifying terminology and improving the level of detail for information submitted in a cosmetic notification, in order to facilitate its use for risk management purposes;
   • enhancing compliance and enforcement oversight with regard to who is responsible for responding to evidence of safety requests for cosmetics; and
4. Address administrative updates.

How to participate

To participate in this pre-consultation, send us an email at: hc.cosmetics.sc@canada.ca to express your interest and to request a comment package. We will email you a copy of the Notice to Interested Parties and instructions on how to provide your comments.

This pre-consultation will be available to the general public and stakeholders for 45 days, between July 16, 2021 and August 30, 2021.

Who is the focus of this consultation

• General Canadian Public
• Interested stakeholders

Goals of the pre-consultation

Through this pre-consultation, Health Canada intends to gather comments from all affected and interested parties for feedback on the Notice to Interested Parties.

Your opinion is sought on the following:

• Whether you support the disclosure of specific fragrance allergens on labels of cosmetics
• Whether you support a flexible off-pack labelling option for disclosure of ingredients and fragrance allergens on labels of small packages, and
• Comments or concerns on proposed amendments to strengthen cosmetic notification requirements, improve oversight to support compliance actions, and address administrative changes

The input gathered through this process will be considered in the development of a regulatory proposal, which includes performing a cost-benefit analysis to support regulatory decisions. Following the publication of the proposed amendments to the Cosmetic Regulations in Canada Gazette, Part 1, there will be an additional comment period.

Related information

• Cosmetic Safety
• Consumer products and cosmetics

Contact us

Cosmetics Program
Consumer and Hazardous Products Safety Directorate
Health Canada
269 Laurier Avenue West
Address Locator: 4908A
Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9

Email: hc.cosmetics.sc@canada.ca