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Retinal introductions for consumer use now need assessment by AICIS
From 27 June 2026, Retinal (retinaldehyde; CAS 116-31-4) importation and manufacture can no longer be authorised under the AICIS exempted or reported categories if it has any consumer end use, including as a cosmetic ingredient.
This means introducers (importers and manufacturers) must apply for and receive an AICIS assessment certificate for retinal prior to introduction.
Why retinal now needs assessment
We recently completed a targeted human health hazard assessment of retinal that found it has developmental toxicity. Because retinal has now been classified as a developmental toxin, retinal introductions for consumer use are no longer eligible for the exempted (very low risk) and reported (low risk) categories.
This regulatory requirement does not apply to introductions of retinol (CAS 68-26-8) and retinol esters that are on the Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals (Inventory).
What this means for retinal introducers
You must apply for an AICIS assessment and receive a certificate before you can introduce (import or manufacture) retinal for any consumer end use in Australia. This includes use of retinal as an ingredient in cosmetics and skincare products such as serums, moisturisers and creams. Assessment application fees apply.
Comparable hazard assessment option available
Introducers can apply for a comparable hazard assessment with a reduced application fee due to our recently completed retinal hazard assessment.
Before preparing an application, contact us for a discussion to:
- learn about your options
- understand the information you need to provide in an application.
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