Regulatory FAQs

What is the Stockholm Convention? 

The Stockholm Convention is a global treaty that was signed in 2001 and became effective from 2004. It was ratified by 186 countries and aims at addressing the production and use of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). 

The Convention seeks to eliminate or restrict the production and release of specific POPs and to promote international cooperation and measures to reduce their impact on a global scale. 

Is there currently a POP nomination for D4, D5, and D6? 

In July 2025, the European Commission decided to close its proposal to nominate Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4); Decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5); dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane (D6) under the Stockholm Convention.  

Are silicones or siloxanes currently being regulated in the EU? 

The European Union (EU) has one of the most comprehensive regulatory frameworks for chemicals in the world. Since 2020, a REACH restriction has been in place on the use of silicones in wash-off personal care products. In 2024, this was extended to include D4, D5, D6 in leave-on cosmetic products as well. More information on REACH can be found in the regulatory section of our website. 

What is REACH? 

REACH is a regulation of the European Union, adopted to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals, while enhancing the competitiveness of the EU chemicals industry. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) provides more details on authorisation and restrictions under REACH.