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Washington Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act

Policy Number
Chapter 70A.560 RCW
Responsible Entity
Washington State Department of Ecology
Country
United States
State/Province
Washington
Approval Date

This law applies to cosmetic products manufactured, distributed, sold, or offered for sale within or into Washington. 

A number of chemicals and chemical classes are restricted under this law. These include:

  • Formaldehyde* (Intentionally added)
  • Lead and lead compounds (Intentionally added or at one part per million (ppm) or above)
  • Mercury and mercury compounds (Intentionally added)
  • Methylene glycol (Intentionally added)
  • Ortho-phthalates (Intentionally added)
  • Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) (Intentionally added)
  • m-Phenylenediamine and its salts (Intentionally added)
  • o-Phenylenediamine and its salts (Intentionally added)
  • Triclosan (Intentionally added)

*Chemicals determine release formaldehyde will be decided through rulemaking.

In addition to restrictions, the law required that Ecology should implement an initiative to support independent cosmetologists and small businesses that provide cosmetology services, such as beauty salons, in efforts to transition to using safer cosmetic products. The initiative may include, but is not limited to, providing:

  • Technical assistance and support
  • Resources for identifying safer cosmetic products and
  • Resources for financial incentives to eligible participants to replace cosmetic products containing toxic chemicals, disposal programs, and the use of safer products.

 

More information on the implementation of this law:

https://ecology.wa.gov/waste-toxics/reducing-toxic-chemicals/washingtons-toxics-in-products-laws/toxic-free-cosmetics-act 

 

 

 

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?billnumber=1047&year=2023 

Full Text of the Policy (in English)
https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=70A.560
Additional Guidance
The material and information provided is for general information purposes only and should not be used to make business or legal decisions. The user is encouraged to seek the current version of policies through the respective authoritative body.