The SFDA has updated the permissible percentage of titanium dioxide in cosmetic products.
The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) modified the permitted percentages of titanium dioxide in cosmetic products imported into Saudi Arabia.
The adjustment was announced after the authority conducted extensive studies to determine the safety of using titanium dioxide in cosmetics.
The restrictions affect the use of titanium dioxide when used in some products like face powder or aerosol hairspray, and also when used as cosmetic colourant or as UV filter. Notably, these updates are in line with corresponding EU annexe positions III-321, IV-143 and V-27.
Products that do not comply with this update are effectively banned for import into Saudi Arabia, starting on January 1, 2021, for imports, and January 1, 2023, for products currently being traded in Saudi markets.
To determine conformity, cosmetic manufacturers and importers must request for a Certificate of Conformity from accredited Conformity Bodies like Cotecna.
To learn more about this update, or to get your cosmetic products certified for export to Saudi Arabia, please do not hesitate to contact us.