{"id":50939,"date":"2024-05-03T11:31:32","date_gmt":"2024-05-03T09:31:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/grupopedrojaen.com\/retinol-european-union-restrictions\/"},"modified":"2026-01-28T12:49:46","modified_gmt":"2026-01-28T11:49:46","slug":"retinol-european-union-restrictions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/grupopedrojaen.com\/en\/retinol-european-union-restrictions\/","title":{"rendered":"Will Retinol Be Banned in the European Union?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Some patients ask whether retinol will be banned in the European Union following recent changes to European regulations. In this article, we explain the restrictions that have actually been introduced. <\/em><\/p>\n\n

Last year, the European Union announced that it was preparing additional regulation concerning the concentration of certain substances used in the formulation of hygiene, personal care and cosmetic products. As a result, in early April 2024, the European Commission introduced Regulation (EU) 2024\/996, which amends Regulation (EC) No 1223\/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council on cosmetic products. This regulatory update has been widely covered in the media. However, many patients continue to ask about the new legislation and its implications, particularly with regard to retinol. <\/p>\n\n

Retinol Is an Essential Ingredient in Dermatology<\/h2>\n\n

Retinol is an active ingredient derived from vitamin A<\/a> that has been used in cosmetics for more than 30 years. It is widely regarded as one of the most effective anti-ageing ingredients available. Initially, retinol was incorporated into creams designed to treat acne. After its benefits in improving skin texture were confirmed, it was gradually included in cosmetic formulations aimed at reducing pigmentation and wrinkles. <\/p>\n\n

Today, retinol is a key component of skincare routines<\/a> due to its versatility and its multiple benefits in addressing signs of skin ageing. In fact, dermatologists consider it one of the most effective skin-transforming ingredients. <\/p>\n\n

Retinol promotes gentle exfoliation of the skin surface and stimulates the production of new skin cells. This helps reduce dark spots, acne marks and scars, wrinkles, fine lines and enlarged pores. In addition, it evens skin tone and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin\u2014proteins essential for skin firmness. The result is smoother, more even-looking skin with improved luminosity, firmness and elasticity. <\/p>\n\n

Retinol also helps regulate sebaceous gland <\/a>activity, reducing excess oil production and significantly improving the appearance of acne-prone skin. Finally, when used regularly, retinol has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it particularly valuable in the management of various dermatological conditions. <\/p>\n\n

Retinol and Retinoic Acid: Cosmetic vs Medicinal Use<\/h2>\n\n

To understand the rationale behind the new European regulation, it is important to distinguish between retinol and retinoic acid. Both compounds belong to the retinoid family, a group of vitamin A derivatives that play a crucial role in regulating key cellular functions within the skin. <\/p>\n\n

As explained above, retinol<\/strong> is widely used at different concentrations in over-the-counter cosmetic products due to its effectiveness in improving skin texture and addressing signs of ageing. When applied to the skin, retinol is absorbed by epidermal cells and gradually converted into retinoic acid through specific enzymes present in the skin. <\/p>\n\n

This conversion is a slow and progressive process, resulting in a more controlled and sustained release of retinoic acid. As a result, retinol is generally better tolerated and carries a much lower risk of irritation compared with more potent retinoid formulations. <\/p>\n\n

By contrast, retinoic acid<\/strong>\u2014known in its pharmaceutical form as tretinoin\u2014does not require this conversion process. This makes it more potent and increases the risk of side effects such as erythema (redness), severe irritation, burning sensation and skin peeling.<\/p>\n\n

For this reason, retinoic acid (tretinoin) is classified as a medicinal product rather than a cosmetic ingredient. Its use is therefore subject to medical prescription and must be supervised by a specialist. <\/p>\n\n

The EU\u2019s Objective with the New Regulation on Retinol Use in Cosmetics<\/h2>\n\n
\"Regulation<\/figure>\n\n

The legislative framework governing cosmetic products in the European Union is based on Regulation (EC) No 1223\/2009, recently amended by Commission Regulation (EU) 2024\/996. The purpose of this amendment is to establish stricter limits on retinol concentrations in cosmetic products in order to reduce the incidence of side effects, particularly in sensitive skin<\/a> or in individuals with pre-existing dermatological conditions such as atopic dermatitis <\/a>or rosacea<\/a>. These skin types are especially vulnerable to adverse reactions, which may range from redness and peeling to dryness, inflammation and exacerbation of underlying symptoms. <\/p>\n\n

As a result, from next year\u2014following a one-year transition period granted to manufacturers to adapt their production processes\u2014facial cosmetic products will not be permitted to contain more than 0.3% retinol, while body products will be limited to a maximum concentration of 0.05%.<\/p>\n\n

In summary, limiting retinol concentration in over-the-counter cosmetic products is intended to protect the general consumer, ensuring that these products are safe for most users without the need for prior dermatological assessment. Therefore, stating that retinol is going to be banned in the European Union is not correct. <\/p>\n\n

What About Higher Retinol Concentrations?<\/h2>\n\n

Dermatologists strongly support professional supervision in the use of both retinoids (medicinal products) and retinol (cosmetic products), as the effectiveness and safety of skincare routines largely depend on individualised treatment planning.<\/p>\n\n

Expert supervision makes it possible to adjust retinol concentration and application frequency according to each patient\u2019s needs, taking into account factors such as skin type, retinoid tolerance, underlying dermatological conditions and other influencing factors, including skin phototype, concurrent medications or existing skincare routines. This approach not only minimises adverse effects but also maximises treatment benefits. <\/p>\n\n

With regard to patients who require higher concentrations of retinol or the use of more potent retinoids, these treatments will continue to be available. However, they must be prescribed<\/strong> and monitored by a medical specialist, who can adjust the therapeutic regimen based on the patient\u2019s clinical response.<\/p>\n\n

Medical supervision is essential for the correct use of retinoids and for the management of any side effects that may arise. This includes implementing complementary skincare measures such as appropriate moisturisation and sun protection, which are crucial in counteracting dryness and increased photosensitivity associated with retinol use. <\/p>\n\n

Will Retinol Be Banned in the European Union? Final Summary <\/h2>\n\n

The EU regulation aims to limit retinol concentrations in cosmetic products to ensure safe use without the need for medical supervision. Nevertheless, dermatological guidance can significantly enhance both the effectiveness and safety of retinol-based treatments, allowing patients to benefit fully from its skin-transforming properties without compromising skin health.<\/p>\n\n

We invite you to share this article addressing whether retinol will be banned in the European Union with anyone who may find it of interest.<\/em><\/p>\n\n

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This content has been prepared by the Communications Department and the Medical Team of Grupo Pedro Ja\u00e9n, in accordance with our editorial commitment <\/a>to accuracy and regular updates of the information provided.<\/p>\n

References on retinol and its regulation in the European Union:<\/p>\n

1. Quan T. Human Skin Aging and the Anti-Aging Properties of Retinol. Biomolecules. 2023 Nov 4;13(11):1614. doi: 10.3390\/biom13111614. PMID: 38002296; PMCID: PMC10669284. <\/p>\n

2. Quan T. Molecular insights of human skin epidermal and dermal aging. J Dermatol Sci. 2023 Nov;112(2):48-53. doi: 10.1016\/j.jdermsci.2023.08.006. Epub 2023 Aug 29. PMID: 37661473. <\/p>\n

3. Quan T, Qin Z, Shao Y, Xu Y, Voorhees JJ, Fisher GJ. Retinoids suppress cysteine-rich protein 61 (CCN1), a negative regulator of collagen homeostasis, in skin equivalent cultures and aged human skin in vivo. Exp Dermatol. 2011 Jul;20(7):572-6. doi: 10.1111\/j.1600-0625.2011.01278.x. Epub 2011 Apr 13. PMID: 21488975; PMCID: PMC3120908. <\/p>\n

4. Shao Y, He T, Fisher GJ, Voorhees JJ, Quan T. Molecular basis of retinol anti-ageing properties in naturally aged human skin in vivo. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2017 Feb;39(1):56-65. doi: 10.1111\/ics.12348. Epub 2016 Jul 4. PMID: 27261203; PMCID: PMC5136519. <\/p>\n

5. Shao Y, He T, Fisher GJ, Voorhees JJ, Quan T. Molecular basis of retinol anti-ageing properties in naturally aged human skin in vivo. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2017 Feb;39(1):56-65. doi: 10.1111\/ics.12348. Epub 2016 Jul 4. PMID: 27261203; PMCID: PMC5136519. <\/p>\n

6. Reglamento (UE) 2024\/996 de la Comisi\u00f3n<\/a>, de 3 de abril de 2024, por el que se modifica el Reglamento (CE) n\u00ba 1223\/2009 del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo en lo que respecta al uso de vitamina A, Alpha-Arbutin y Arbutin y de determinadas sustancias con posibles propiedades de alteraci\u00f3n endocrina en los productos cosm\u00e9ticos.<\/p>[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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