Your favorite salon may not be able to use your long-preferred products at your next appointment as the state law banning cosmetics containing a variety of prohibited chemicals goes into effect on Dec. 31. 

State lawmakers approved the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act in 2023, and it took effect at the beginning of 2025. However, it gave salons, retailers and other cosmetic distributors until the end of 2025 to discontinue using or selling cosmetics containing banned chemicals. Banned chemicals include: 

• ortho-phthalates 
• perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) 
• formaldehyde
• methylene glycol 
• mercury and its compounds 
• triclosan 
• m-phenylenediamine and o-phenylenediamine and their salts  
• lead and its compounds 

There are reports that many cosmetics manufacturers have reformulated or are in the process of reformulating their products to comply with Washington’s law as well as others being implemented in other states. However, some products for hair and nails could be phased out entirely given that part of the industry’s past reliance on formaldehyde as component. 

The state Department of Ecology is providing compliance support to those businesses using and selling cosmetics, including sell-through and disposal guidance. 

Ecology officials encourage business owners to review their responsibilities under the new law and to reach out with questions and requests for assistance.

Restrictions on formaldehyde releasers go into effect in 2027.

Ecology can be reached at [email protected]. 

Editor's note: Story updated to reflect the date state lawmakers approved the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act and the misspelling of methylene glycol.