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RAPEX, as the EU's rapid alert system for non-food dangerous products, has issued multiple notification cases for fluorinated compounds such as PFAS, PFOA and PFCAs, covering clothing, textiles, outdoor equipment and other product categories. These notifications reflect the EU's strict regulatory requirements and high-intensity law enforcement for PFAS residues in consumer products, and also bring clear compliance challenges to global manufacturers, exporters and cross-border e-commerce platforms.

On March 30, 2026, the European Commission released the guidance document and accompanying Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for the PPWR.

On January 12, 2026, the New Jersey State Senate passed Bill S1221, officially titled the Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act.

Recently, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has approved “Words or Symbols” informing the purchaser of PFAS in a product.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are increasingly becoming a focal point of global concern due to their potential long-term impacts on the environment and human health. As a class of synthetic chemicals characterized by high stability and widespread applications, PFAS are facing increasingly stringent regulatory scrutiny in the cosmetics sector. This article explores the physicochemical properties and potential health risks of PFAS, and systematically reviews the evolving global regulatory landscape related to their use in cosmetics. It aims to help cosmetic enterprises gain a comprehensive understanding of regulatory requirements, mitigate compliance risks, enhance product safety, and strengthen competitiveness in international markets.

On November 5, 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) published mapping of PFAS uses, serving as an industry support document for the upcoming public consultation on PFAS restrictions. The mapping systematically outlines PFAS applications across 14 major industrial, professional, and consumer sectors, including battery manufacturing, textiles, electronics, and PFAS production.

On October 3, 2025, the European Commission published (EU) 2025/1988 in the Official Journal, amending Annex XVII of the REACH Regulation (Restrictions) to include item 82, which sets forth control requirements for PFAS in firefighting foams. The revised regulation will take effect on October 23, 2025. This amendment marks a significant step towards comprehensive PFAS regulation in the EU. The firefighting foam industry should pay close attention to this revision, and other industries should continue to monitor the EU's progress in regulating PFAS across all sectors.

PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have become a globally critical issue due to their impact on the environment and health. Due to their extreme chemical stability, they are virtually indestructible in the environment, accumulating in soil, water sources, and even human bodies for decades, earning them the nickname "forever chemicals." Commonly used in food contact materials, textiles, electronics, and daily chemical products, PFAS are often employed as waterproof and oil-resistant coatings, surfactants, or additives. Studies have linked PFAS to serious health issues such as cancer, immune system suppression, liver damage, and developmental delays in children.

CIRS is to host a PFAS-focused webinar, concentrating on the latest regulatory updates and compliance practices. This webinar is designed to help businesses promptly adapt to policy changes, fulfill compliance responsibilities robustly, and seize opportunities for sustainable development. Register now to solidify your compliance defenses and empower your business for the future!

To assist stakeholders in preparation, ECHA will host an online briefing on October 30, 2025.