EU REACH – Commission Adopts EU-wide Restriction on Cyclosiloxanes (D4,D5,D6)

Vol. 1406 | 30 May 2024

In January 2018, EU added restriction of octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (‘D4’) and decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (‘D5’) in wash-off cosmetic products to Entry 70 Annex XVII of REACH regulations and the restriction have been effective on 31 January 2020.

And then, in June 2018, D4, D5 and dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane (‘D6’) were identified as substances of very high concern (‘SVHC’) with very persistent and very bioaccumulative (‘vPvB’) and persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (‘PBT’) properties.

On 16 May 2024, the European Commission adopted a restriction on siloxanes D4, D5 and D6. This measure will protect our environment by reducing up to 90 % of the emissions of these very persistent and very bioaccumulative substances. The restriction will start applying after 6 June 2026.

D4, D5, and D6 are used in various consumer and professional products, including cosmetics, dry cleaning, waxes and washing and cleaning products.

Scope of the restriction

D4, D5, and D6 shall not be placed on the market, as a substance on its own; as a constituent of other substances; or in mixtures; in a concentration equal to or greater than 0,1 % by weight of the respective substance after 6 June 2026.

D4, D5, and D6 shall not be used as a solvent for the dry cleaning of textiles, leather and fur after 6 June 2026

There are several derogations listed in the regulation, like as a monomer in the production of silicone polymer; D5 and D6 for use in devices for the treatment and care of scars and wounds the prevention of wounds, and the care of stoma; D5 as a solvent in strictly controlled closed dry cleaning systems for textile, leather and fur, where the cleaning solvent is recycled or incinerated.

Access the update via the following link: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ%3AL_202401328&qid=1715919472757#msdynttrid=gT-bJck9PXXh4rYZOnFIKHdqf_t_P5CJEYtsHvmLOAY

If you have further questions, please contact Dr. Kathy Leung (Kathy.Leung@intertek.com) or Dr. Ben Cheng (Ben.PS.Cheng@intertek.com)