FDA Backs Off Asbestos Tests in Talc Cosmetics Amid Pushback
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FDA is hitting pause and withdrawing its plan to require specific tests for asbestos in talc-based cosmetics after hearing lots of feedback. This affects cosmetic makers who would have had to test and keep records to keep their products safe and legal. No new rules or costs are coming right now, but the FDA will rethink and revisit this soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Testing/Recordkeeping Requirement Withdrawn
If you make talc-containing cosmetics, the FDA has withdrawn the December 27, 2024 proposed rule that would have required you to test talc or talc-containing products for asbestos and keep records. The withdrawal is effective November 28, 2025, so those specific testing and recordkeeping obligations are not being imposed now.
Consumers Not Covered By Proposed Tests Now
Because the FDA withdrew the December 27, 2024 proposed rule on November 28, 2025, users of talc-containing cosmetic products are not covered today by any standardized testing requirement the proposal would have created. The Agency said it will reconsider how to reduce asbestos exposure in talc-containing cosmetics.
FDA Will Issue New Proposed Rule Later
The FDA said it will issue a new proposed rule to meet its obligations under section 3505 of the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022. Manufacturers should expect the Agency to revisit standardized asbestos testing in talc-containing cosmetics after further consideration.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-16296, Substances Generally Recognized as Safe
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is proposing to require the submission of generally recognized as safe (GRAS) notices for the use of a human or animal food substance purported to be GRAS under the conditions of its intended use under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act).
2026-14073, Drug Establishment Registration and Drug Listing Requirements for Establishments Engaged in Distributed Manufacturing and Certain Foreign Establishments
The FDA wants to make it easier for drug makers who work in several locations to register as one company instead of many. They’re also updating rules for foreign drug companies to match new laws about handling health threats. If you’re in drug manufacturing, get ready to comment by September 11, 2026, and keep an eye on possible paperwork changes that could affect your business.
2026-13047, Establishment Registration and Product Listing for Tobacco Products
The FDA wants to make sure all tobacco product makers, both in the U.S. and abroad, register their businesses and list their products. This new rule closes a big gap by including foreign companies, helping the FDA keep better track of tobacco products for public health. Comments on this proposal are open until September 14, 2026, so affected businesses should get ready to update their info and possibly face new costs.
2026-16714, Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Third Party Disclosure and Recordkeeping Requirements for Reportable Food
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or the Agency) is announcing an opportunity for public comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the Agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), Federal Agencies are required to publish notice in the Federal Register concerning each proposed collection of information, including each proposed extension of an existing collection of information, and to allow 60 days for public comment in response to the notice. This notice solicits comments on the information collection provisions of FDA's third-party disclosure and recordkeeping requirements for reportable food.
2026-16712, Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Imports and Electronic Import Entries
The FDA wants your thoughts on how they collect info about imports and electronic import entries. If you’re involved in importing goods, this could affect you! They’re asking for comments by October 16, 2026, to help improve the process without adding extra costs or hassle.
2026-16715, Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Investigational New Drug Application Requirements
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is announcing that a proposed collection of information has been submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and clearance under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-21346, Air Plan Approval; Missouri; Reporting Emission Data, Emission Fees, and Process Information
The EPA is proposing updates to Missouri’s air pollution rules that affect businesses reporting emissions and paying fees from 2025 to 2028 and beyond. They’re adding a new hazardous chemical to the list and making some small rule tweaks, but air quality won’t change. If you’re a Missouri company dealing with emissions, get ready for these updates and consider sending your comments by the end of 2025.
Next: 2025-21409, Airworthiness Directives; Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH Gliders
If you own a Schempp-Hirth Standard Cirrus glider, the FAA wants you to know about a safety update. They’re changing the rules to fix a potential problem and asking for your feedback by January 12, 2026. This might mean some inspections or fixes soon, so keep an eye on your wallet and calendar!