New ASEAN Cosmetic Ingredient Regulations 2026 Update

ASEAN cosmetic ingredient regulations are undergoing significant changes that businesses in the industry cannot ignore. According to a new document from the Vietnam Drug Administration, many ingredients have been completely banned or are subject to strict concentration limits. Notably, these changes come with a specific implementation roadmap, forcing businesses to proactively review and adjust their formulas if they do not want to face the risk of product recalls from the market.

List of Prohibited Substances: Changes are No Longer Just Warnings

While previously, adjustments to ingredients were often recommendations or warnings, this update shows a different approach. Several active ingredients previously used in many product lines have now been officially removed.

4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor is a prime example. This ingredient was previously found in sunscreen products, but according to the new regulations, it will no longer be permitted for use in Vietnam from November 17, 2028. The transition period is still quite long, but it puts pressure on businesses, as formula changes cannot be implemented in a short time.

Similarly, Miconazole and Miconazole Nitrate have also been added to the list of prohibited substances, with an earlier effective date, November 21, 2025. This forces many businesses to quickly address related products to avoid disruptions in distribution.

In addition, updating the identifier for Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane indicates that the regulatory authority is delving deeper into the details of each component, rather than just focusing on the overall list.

Not just bans, but also precise concentration controls.

A notable point in this update is the more flexible approach to ingredients that don’t need to be completely eliminated.

Instead of banning, the regulatory agency chose to limit the concentration of certain active ingredients such as Genistein and Daidzein. The permitted levels are quite low, at 0.007 percent and 0.02 percent respectively, and will begin to be applied on November 17, 2027.

This might seem like a relaxation, but in reality, it demands more. Businesses not only need to know what ingredients they are using, but also need to precisely control the amount used down to the smallest detail. Even a small deviation in the formula can render the product compliant with regulations.

Changes in Sunscreen Ingredients under ASEAN Cosmetic Ingredient Regulations 2026

Another noteworthy change is the adjustment to the list of ingredients used in sunscreen products.

The removal of 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor from the UV filter category and its subsequent move to the banned substance category shows a significant shift in safety assessments. This is no longer a technical adjustment, but reflects a more cautious approach to products that come into direct contact with the skin for extended periods.

In the context of increasing consumer concern for product safety, these changes may become the new standard for the entire market.

Implementation Roadmap: A Factor Businesses Cannot Ignore

A positive point is that the new regulations are not implemented immediately, but have a clear roadmap for each item. However, this does not mean businesses can wait until the last minute to begin adjustments.

When the official deadlines come into effect, only products that fully comply with the regulations will be allowed to continue circulating. Conversely, non-compliant products will be forced to recall.

In practice, dealing with substandard products is often far more costly and complex than making adjustments early on. Therefore, the transition period should be seen as an opportunity to prepare, rather than to delay.

Businesses need to proactively adapt.

In the face of these changes, businesses need to quickly review their entire product formulas to identify ingredients that may no longer be compliant and maintain proper documentation in the Product Information File (PIF).

Referencing ingredients according to the new regulations should be done regularly, especially before proceeding with cosmetic product registration or re-registration. Simultaneously, businesses also need to develop production and distribution plans that align with the implementation roadmap to avoid being caught off guard.

More importantly, proactive adaptation will help minimize the risk of product recalls or regulatory violations, thereby ensuring stable and sustainable business operations.

Conclusion

The ASEAN Cosmetics Ingredient Regulation 2026 is setting increasingly high standards for the safety and control of ingredients in products. The addition of banned substances, stricter concentration limits, and the implementation of specific roadmaps are not only legal requirements but also a crucial step for the entire cosmetics industry towards greater transparency and sustainability.

For businesses, timely updates and proactive adjustments to formulas will help minimize risks and create a competitive advantage in the market. If you need support in formula review, regulatory compliance assessment, or building a roadmap to adapt to new changes, Green NRJ is ready to partner with your business to ensure compliance and develop products effectively and sustainably.