IFRA Standards Library
IFRA
Standards Library
Understanding chemical regulation
Chemicals legislation establishes how substances are classified, evaluated and permitted for use across sectors. These laws vary by country or region but typically require safety data, hazard communication, and risk assessment. Fragrance materials — often complex mixtures used in very small quantities — are subject to the same overarching rules, despite their specific characteristics. IFRA works with regulators and stakeholders to ensure these frameworks are workable, science-based and proportionate.
Chemicals rules vary around the world
Different systems, shared goals
From REACH in Europe to TSCA in the United States, and growing regulatory regimes in Asia and Latin America, chemicals legislation aims to ensure human and environmental safety. While frameworks differ, they often share similar principles: hazard identification, exposure assessment and risk management.
Fragrance within broader rules
Fragrance ingredients are generally regulated under broader chemical safety laws, not sector-specific ones. This means materials used for scent are subject to the same requirements as industrial or agricultural substances. IFRA advocates for regulatory approaches that recognise the specific use patterns and low exposure levels typical of fragrances.
IFRA’s engagement
IFRA monitors regulatory developments globally and contributes technical input to help shape legislation. We work with authorities, industry and scientific experts to support policies that reflect the realities of fragrance use while upholding safety and transparency.
01 July 2026
News
European legislators agree on legal text for the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
The new regulation creates a stand-alone legal framework for ECHA and incorporates the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) into the agency
01 July 2026
News
IFRA welcomes European Commission’s commitment to not fully review REACH Regulation
The European Commission has confirmed it will not pursue a full legislative overhaul of REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), a decision IFRA welcomes as providing much needed certainty for the fragrance industry.
17 June 2026
Press Release
Supporting consumer safety, science and competitiveness: Industry welcomes landmark interinstitutional agreement on Omnibus VI
Brussels, 17 June 2026 – The cosmetics, fragrance and essential oils industries welcome the provisional interinstitutional agreement reached today on the Omnibus VI proposal.