Recent development
Effective February 18, 2016, Turkey now prohibits the use of 3-Benzylidene Camphor in cosmetics products. Widely used in sunscreens, hand and body creams, as well as anti-aging products, 3-Benzylidene Camphor is a type of UV filter which has been found to pose a threat to human health.
Background
On July 28, 2015, the European Commission amended the Cosmetics Regulation (No. 1223/2009) to ban the use of 3-Benzylidene Camphor in cosmetic products.
Following this change, and to further harmonize Turkish cosmetics regulations with those of the European Union, the Turkish Drug and Medical Device Institution (TİTCK) amended Turkey’s Cosmetics Regulation to bring it into conformity with EU law. Accordingly, the use of 3 Benzylidene Camphor is now prohibited in cosmetic products in Turkey.
Manufacturers, importers, retailers and wholesalers of sunscreens, creams and anti-aging products may be affected by this new prohibition.
Conclusion
For years, TİTCK has demonstrated its commitment to harmonizing the cosmetic and pharmaceuticals market in Turkey with EU standards. With this change, TİTCK has signaled that it intends to continue its harmonization efforts.
