Overview of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals - UV Filters in Cosmetic

"Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a diverse group of substances that can alter the function of the endocrine system and consequently cause adverse effects in people and wildlife. The Environment Agency wishes to gather up-to-date information on the use and environmental presence of known and suspected EDCs in the UK, so that risk management can be targeted in the most effective way.

A number of chemicals are authorised for use within the UK as UV-filters in cosmetics under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on cosmetic products (recast). Whilst none have been formally identified as an endocrine disruptor under EU or UK legislation, some have been subject to regulatory scrutiny under EU REACH, with three currently under substance evaluation for endocrine concerns. In addition, some UV filters have been identified as potentially being Persistent, Bioaccumulative and Toxic (PBT) or very Persistent, very Bioaccumulative (vPvB).

This project has two objectives:

1. To identify the relevant substances that are part of this group and then collect publicly available information about the level of supply, use and environmental exposure of these substances with a focus on the UK.
2. To identify those substances from this group of chemicals that are/potentially are EDC, PBT and vPvB substances."