EU Completes Phase-Out of Cyclic Silicones in Cosmetics

The European Union is moving ahead with comprehensive restrictions on cyclic silicones in cosmetics, as the final phase-out deadlines approach. The compounds—octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4), decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5), and dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane (D6)—have been used for decades as texture enhancers in beauty and personal care products.

Environmental concerns drove the regulatory action. The EU identified these silicones as persistent and bioaccumulative in the environment, leading to restrictions under the REACH regulation. D4 and D5 were already banned in rinse-off cosmetics starting in 2020. In 2024, the European Commission expanded the ban to include D6 in rinse-off products, effective June 2026.

From June 2027, all three cyclic silicones will be prohibited in leave-on cosmetics, such as lotions, creams, and sunscreens. The restrictions are codified in European Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/1328, amending Annex XVII of REACH.

The phase-out forces beauty brands to reformulate products, seeking alternatives that match the texture and performance of cyclic silicones. The move also signals growing scrutiny of cosmetic ingredients with potential environmental impact, possibly foreshadowing further EU restrictions on other substances.