On August 28, 2025, the Washington State Department of Ecology finalized a new rule (CR-103 filing) establishing Chapter 173-339, “Cosmetic Products Restrictions,” under the Washington Administrative Code (WAC).
The regulation prohibits the manufacture and sale of cosmetics in Washington that intentionally contain formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing agents.
To safeguard public health, the state has introduced one of the nation’s strictest cosmetic safety measures — a comprehensive ban on formaldehyde and 25 identified formaldehyde-releasing substances (as listed below).
The rule takes effect on September 28, 2025, and will be enforced beginning January 1, 2027.
Non-compliant cosmetics may remain on the market in Washington until December 31, 2027, after which sales will no longer be permitted.
