NEWS FROM THE COUNCIL · 19 Oct 2026
EcoZinc shares this story from the Australian Sunscreen Council on Southeast Asia's ban on benzophenone in cosmetics and sunscreens.
“From 19 November 2026, benzophenone must not be used in cosmetics, including sunscreens and SPF products, under the cosmetic rules of Southeast Asia's ASEAN countries, and products that don't comply must be withdrawn. Australia's medicines regulator, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), said on its website that benzophenone "has possible carcinogenic risks". The TGA is still reviewing benzophenone; its interim decision is due by the end of 2026. The Australian Sunscreen Council is calling for benzophenone to be banned in Australian sunscreen.”
“From 19 November 2026, benzophenone must not be used in cosmetics, including sunscreens and SPF products, under ASEAN's cosmetic rules. Thailand agreed in May 2025 to the same date. ASEAN is the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Its cosmetic rules list "Sunbathing products" as cosmetics, so sunscreens and SPF products are covered. The region's cosmetics committee added benzophenone to the list with the entry "Benzophenone (Carc. 1B)", a carcinogen classification. …”
— Australian Sunscreen Council
Read the full story at the Australian Sunscreen Council →
Australian Sunscreen Council Editorial Team · 19 October 2026
https://www.australiansunscreencouncil.org/post/asean-benzophenone-ban