Finland Finds Widespread Non-Compliance In Eyelash And Nail Adhesives

Finland’s Safety and Chemicals Agency, Tukes, says nearly all eyelash and nail adhesives examined in its inspections failed to comply with chemicals legislation. Its 5 November findings identify deficiencies in labelling, poison-centre notifications and the provision of safety data sheets.

The inspections also covered artificial nail products and gel nail polishes. Tukes found that some operators were not observing restrictions reserving certain products for professional use. The notice reports enforcement findings under existing rules, rather than announcing a new restriction.

Adhesives Fall Under Chemicals Legislation

Tukes classifies eyelash and nail adhesives as chemicals, not cosmetics. REACH and CLP requirements apply according to the product’s classification and the business’s role in the supply chain.

An importer bringing adhesives from outside the EU is responsible for their classification, labelling and packaging under CLP. Other duties can include safety data sheets, a Unique Formula Identifier and poison-centre notification, where applicable.

Businesses that store and sell adhesives without changing their composition may act as distributors. Tukes says they must ensure compliant labelling and packaging before placing the product on the market. Required hazard information must be in Finnish and Swedish, subject to the applicable small-package labelling exemptions.

Professional-Only Cosmetic Nail Products

Artificial nail products and gel nail polishes fall under cosmetics legislation. Tukes highlights the restrictions on nail products containing HEMA or Di-HEMA-TMHDC: these substances are limited to products intended for professional use.

The agency says distributors must ensure those products are not sold to consumers and check for the required professional-use and allergy warnings. A business can hold several supply-chain roles, depending on its activities and the products it handles.