Changes To Our Fragrance Oils – January 2026 Update
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As the fragrance industry evolves, staying ahead of regulatory changes is crucial for both suppliers and consumers. In our latest update, we announce significant modifications to our fragrance oils, effective from January 2026.
After thorough consultations with our perfumers and our CLP expert, Sarah Gladden from CLP Services for Candle Makers (Consultant Member of IFRA UK), we will be removing nine specific substances from our formulations to comply with the EU's Chemical Strategy for Sustainability (CSS). This proactive step ensures that our products remain compliant with upcoming regulations, avoiding potential discontinuation of oils used in cosmetics and home fragrances.
In this article, we will outline the substances being phased out, the reasons behind these changes, and our reformulation process, which is designed to maintain the integrity and appeal of our fragrance offerings. Our commitment to quality and safety remains steadfast, and we are here to support our makers during this transition. Let’s explore the details of these important changes and what they mean for our industry moving forward.
What Substances Are Being Removed?
The following nine substances will be removed from our fragrance oils for batches produced from January 2026 onwards:
Common Name |
CAS |
Chemical Name(s) |
ACETOPHENONE |
98-86-2 |
1-phenyl-ethanone |
BOURGEONAL |
18127-01-0 |
3-(4-tert-butylphenyl)propionaldehyde; 4-tert-butyldihydrocinnamaldehyde
|
p-tert-BUTYLTOLUENE |
98-51-1 |
4-tert-butyltoluene; 1-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-methylbenzene
|
CUMINALDEHYDE |
122-03-2 |
4-isopropylbenzaldehyde |
CYCLAMEN ALDEHYDE |
103-95-7 |
2-methyl-3-(4-isoproylphenyl)propanal |
CYCLEMAZ |
7775-00-0 |
3-p-cumenyl propionaldehyde |
HELIOTROPINE |
120-57-0 |
1,3-benzodioxole-5-carboxaldehyde |
PARA CYMENE |
99-87-6 |
1-methyl-4-(1-methylethyl)-benzene |
TEA TREE OIL |
68647-73-4 / 85085-48-9
|
Melaleuca alternifolia leaf oil |
DIPHENYL OXIDE* |
101-84-8 |
Diphenyl ether |
Why Are These Substances Being Removed?
Time for the technical stuff - the EU’s Chemical Strategy for Sustainability (CSS)* has proposed that these nine substances should be revised to have a CMR 1B classification.
As you may recall from the reclassification of Butylphenyl Methylpropional (Lilial) CAS: 80-54-6), substances that trigger CMR 1B are automatically banned in cosmetic applications in the EU and are limited in non-cosmetic applications therefore the change in classification of these substances will impact suppliers and customers who manufacture, import, or sell ingredients, cosmetics and/or home care products in Europe and/or countries that follow the EU regulations.
What Exactly Is The Chemical Strategy For Sustainability?
The Chemical Strategy for Sustainability (CSS) is an initiative launched as a part of the EU Green Deal, aimed at making the European chemical industry and imported products to the EU market more sustainable by ensuring that chemicals are produced and used safely.
The initiative has resulted in fast-moving regulatory changes, both in Europe and globally, targeting an increasing number of key ingredients used in the fragrance industry.
As a next step this year, the nine* substances are expected to be discussed by the EU Commission, assisted by the expert group CARACAL (the competent authorities for the REACH and CLP Regulations). Hereafter, it is anticipated that the EU Commission will validate the substances for inclusion in Annex VI of the CLP Regulation, resulting in an expected CMR 1B classification application in the EU, anticipated to be during 2027, based on previous timelines of the same process.
CMR 1B classification of these ingredients will result in their automatic ban in cosmetic applications, as well as their limitation in non-cosmetic applications, impacting suppliers and customers who are manufacturing, importing, or selling ingredients, cosmetics and/or home care products in Europe and/or countries that follow the EU regulations.
These regulatory measures will apply to all products on the shelf, with an application date aligned with the CLP Regulation application date as explained above.
Which Of Our Fragrance Oils Will Be Affected?
As a result of this decision to retire the nine substances listed above, any of our fragrance oils containing one or more of these substances will need to be reformulated as of January 2026. The oils affected are as follows:
- Australian Bush
- Before The Rain
- Bergamot & Patchouli
- Black Amber & Lavender
- Cashmere & Caramel
- Christmas Cheer
- Citrus, Musk & Patchouli
- Creamy Cinnamon
- Creamy Pumpkin
- Cucumber Ginger & Mint
- Egyptian Amber
- Enchantment
- Fresh Hay Honey & Amber
- Gardenia & Orange Blossom
- Goji Berry & Blood Orange
- Hawaiian Honey Blossom
- Jasmine & Magnolia
- Lychee Peony
- Mandarin Lavender & Amber
- Midnight Poppy
- Moon Lake Musk
- Oriental Blossom
- Rhubarb & Elderflower
- Sea Salt & Sandalwood
- Snow Pixie
- Snug as a Bug
- Strawberry Fizz
- Summer Days
- Tobacco & Oak
- Vanilla Patchouli & Sandalwood
- Violet, Lily & Rose
- Zen Hen
This means that over the coming months, these oils will be reformulated to ensure we remain at the forefront of industry changes and to give our customers sufficient time to adjust.
How Will The Oils Be Reformulated?
Working in conjunction with our perfumers, a reformulation approach has been established, consisting of:
- Applying ready-to-use alternatives while maintaining olfactory and performance authenticity, and with no impact on stability.
- Ensuring the alternative ingredients used for the reformulation have been thoroughly reviewed in accordance with their individual safety and regulatory profiles.
- Selecting formulas that meet the following criteria:
No negative impact on IFRA and/or Cosmetic Regulations, assessed against known dosage and end use.
No negative impact on Halal Suitability.
No negative impact on REACH registration status.
Limited to no variance of allergen content at the fragrance oil level.
*Although not covered by the CSS, we would like to provide notification concerning the self-classification of Diphenyl Oxide CAS No. 101-84-8, as Toxic to Reproduction Category 1B (REP 1B) by the Lead Registrant (LR). The data has been assessed by fragrance industry experts, who have concluded that reclassification of DPO as REP 1B is justified.
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Conclusion:
As we navigate these changes in the fragrance industry, it's essential to recognise that regulatory updates are an inevitable part of our landscape. While the removal of these nine substances may present challenges, we view this transition as an opportunity to enhance our product offerings and ensure compliance with evolving standards.
We are committed to supporting our makers every step of the way, providing resources and guidance as you adapt to these changes. Our proactive approach means that we not only react to regulations but also work diligently to formulate oils that maintain their olfactory appeal while aligning with safety standards.
Together, we can embrace these necessary adjustments, ensuring that our products continue to thrive in the market. Your success is our priority, and we are here to help you navigate this journey with confidence and support. Thank you for being a part of our community as we move forward into this new era of fragrance innovation!
FAQs
What is the deadline for the changeover?
No deadline has been set as yet, however it is expected this will be in 2027.
Can I still use the batch of oil I have currently?
Yes. No set date for the deadline has been confirmed yet, likely to be a grace period to allow industry to changeover.
Will I need to retest the oil?
Yes.
NI Candle Supplies specialises in high-quality candle-making materials, offering a diverse range of waxes, wicks, and fragrances. Committed to inspiring creativity, we provide resources for beginners and seasoned artisans. Our mission is to empower candle makers with quality products and expert guidance, fostering a vibrant community of enthusiasts who share a passion for craftsmanship and creativity.
