Scope
The HSA advisory applies to Singapore suppliers assessing the safety and quality of cosmetic products they supply. It points suppliers to regulatory requirements under the Health Products Act and the Health Products (Cosmetic Products - ASEAN Cosmetic Directive) Regulations 2007.
Exact limit and units
| Metal | Matrix | Limit | Unit | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arsenic | Cosmetic products | 5 | parts per million by weight | finished product |
| Cadmium | Cosmetic products | 5 | parts per million by weight | finished product |
| Lead | Cosmetic products | 20 | parts per million by weight | finished product |
| Mercury | Cosmetic products | 1 | parts per million by weight | finished product |
How tested
The advisory encourages suppliers to conduct product testing at laboratories with accredited methods. The heavy-metal table is presented as acceptable limits based on the ASEAN Guidelines on Limits of Contaminants for Cosmetics.
Enforcement posture
This is supplier guidance rather than the text of the subsidiary legislation itself. It states that heavy metals should not be intentionally added and that technically unavoidable traces should meet the listed limits.
History of changes
This advisory version is dated July 2024 and states that HSA may update or revise it from time to time.
How it compares
The advisory values match the common ASEAN cosmetic-contaminant limits for arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury. Singapore also implements statutory ACD schedule controls for specific colourants and prohibited substances.
Sources
Update history
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