U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA)

U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) 1
The FDA prohibits or restricts just 11 ingredients in cosmetics.
No premarket approval — these are the only ingredients barred by federal regulation.
BithionolProhibited
The use of bithionol is prohibited because it may cause photocontact sensitization. 21 CFR 700.11
Chlorofluorocarbon propellantsProhibited
The use of chlorofluorocarbon propellants in cosmetic aerosol products intended for domestic consumption is prohibited. 21 CFR 700.23
ChloroformProhibited
The use of chloroform in cosmetic products is prohibited because it causes cancer in animals and is likely to be harmful to human health. 21 CFR 700.18
Halogenated salicylanilides (di-, tri-, metabromsalan and tetrachlorosalicylanilide)Prohibited
These are prohibited in cosmetic products because they may cause serious skin disorders. 21 CFR 700.15
HexachloropheneRestricted
Because of its toxic effect and ability to penetrate human skin, hexachlorophene (HCP) may be used only when no other preservative has. 21 CFR 250.250
Mercury compoundsRestricted
Mercury compounds are readily absorbed through the skin on topical application and tend to accumulate in the body. 21 CFR 700.13
Methylene chlorideProhibited
It causes cancer in animals and is likely to be harmful to human health, too. 21 CFR 700.19
Prohibited cattle materialsRestricted
To protect against bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), also known as "mad cow disease," cosmetics may not be manufactured from. 21 CFR 700.27
Sunscreens in cosmeticsProhibited
Use of the term "sunscreen" or similar sun protection wording in a product's labeling generally causes the product to be subject to. 21 CFR 700.35
Vinyl chlorideProhibited
The use of vinyl chloride is prohibited as an ingredient of aerosol products, because it causes cancer and other health problems. 21 CFR 700.14
Zirconium-containing complexesProhibited
The use of zirconium-containing complexes in aerosol cosmetic products is prohibited because of their toxic effect on lungs of animals. 21 CFR 700.16
Source: FDA · 21 CFR 700 →

The FDA regulates cosmetics under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Unlike drugs, cosmetics do not require pre-market approval from the FDA. The agency can take action against products that are adulterated or misbranded, and maintains a list of prohibited or restricted color additives. The Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA) of 2022 expanded FDA authority to require adverse event reporting, facility registration, and product listing.

Jurisdiction
US
Founded
1906