On 11 September 2026, the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration), which regulates cosmetic products in Australia, launched a one-month consultation on the conditions of use for the UV filter 4-MBC (4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor).
This consultation has been organised following the TGA’s safety assessment of 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor (CAS No.36861-47-9 / 38102-62-4, EC No.253-242-6 / -), which is used in sun protection products in Australia. It is seeking stakeholders’ views on three different options.
Option 1
A single maximum limit of 0.39% is proposed for all products.
Option 2
Different maximum limits are proposed depending on age, the type of sunscreen and the area of application:
• 0.95% in therapeutic products for the face and hands,
• 3.8% in therapeutic products for the face and hands intended for people aged 18 and over,
• 3.3% in cosmetic products for the face and hands.
Option 3
This option proposes a ban on the use of 4-MBC in all therapeutic or cosmetic products.
The consultation was open for one month, until 12 October.
The final decision is expected to be taken in November 2026.
Sources
• TGA to consult on additional controls for an active sunscreen ingredient, TGA, Press release, 11 September 2026
• Public consultation on proposed amendments to the Poisons Standard in relation to 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (4-MBC) – Joint ACMS-ACCS #45, TGA, 11 September 2026
