Mandatory cosmetic recalls are in the news. On 22 October 2026, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued the final guidance Questions and Answers Regarding Mandatory Cosmetics Recalls. It explains when the FDA can order a cosmetic off the market, how the process works, and what companies must do.
This article summarises the guidance, how to choose safe cosmetics in Indonesia, and a real result from Kira for acne-prone skin.
What is new from the FDA
- It comes from MoCRA, the US Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022, which added mandatory recall authority for cosmetics.
- Final with no substantive changes from the draft issued on 18 December 2025, after the FDA reviewed public comments.
- Voluntary recalls are still encouraged. The FDA expects most violative cosmetics to continue to be recalled voluntarily.
- Soap is not included in the definition of a cosmetic here, and cosmetics that are also drugs or devices fall under other recall authorities.
When can a cosmetic be recalled by order?
According to the FDA guidance, a mandatory recall requires two criteria at once: a reasonable probability that the product is adulterated or misbranded, and a reasonable probability that using it will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.
- Voluntary opportunity. The FDA notifies the company in writing and gives it the chance to stop distribution and recall the product itself.
- Order to cease distribution. If the company refuses or does not act within the time set, the FDA can order distribution to stop immediately.
- Informal hearing. The company is offered an informal hearing no later than 10 days after the order.
- Recall. The FDA may then vacate the order, continue it, or amend it to require a recall. This authority rests with the FDA Commissioner and cannot be delegated.
What about Indonesia?
The FDA guidance applies in the United States. In Indonesia, cosmetics are overseen by BPOM. Before buying, check the packaging, label, distribution permit and expiry date (BPOM's Cek KLIK). Read the full guide on checking cosmetics with Cek KLIK.
Dermatologists' tips for acne-prone skin
Choosing safe products also means choosing ones that suit your skin. For acne-prone skin, dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommend:
- Wash gently up to twice a day and after sweating, using your fingertips rather than sponges or washcloths.
- Choose gentle products labelled alcohol-free.
- Do not pick or pop pimples, as it makes acne take longer to clear and raises the risk of scars and dark spots.
- Wear broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30+ sunscreen labelled non-comedogenic.
- Give it time. Acne treatment can take several weeks to a few months to show results.
Kira's real result for acne and marks
Here is Kira's real result for the question “how do I deal with my acne and acne marks?”:
- Cleanser with salicylic acid, avoiding alcohol.
- Toner with witch hazel extract, avoiding parabens.
- Serum for acne marks with niacinamide and vitamin C, avoiding fragrance.
- Non-comedogenic moisturiser with hyaluronic acid, avoiding mineral oil.
Kira's suggestions are AI advice, not a medical diagnosis. The AAD notes that toners, astringents and exfoliants can dry the skin and make acne look worse, so stop any product that stings. If your acne does not improve, see a dermatologist.
For a full guide, read how to deal with acne.
Ask Kira about your skin
Send Kira a selfie in natural light on WhatsApp and ask about your skin. Kira suggests a routine, ingredients to look for and ones to avoid in 10 to 15 seconds. See the acne and marks example.
Frequently asked questions
What is a mandatory cosmetic recall?
A mandatory recall is the FDA's authority to order a company to stop distributing and recall a cosmetic from the US market. It comes from MoCRA, passed in 2022, and the final guidance was issued on 22 October 2026. The FDA still encourages companies to recall problem products voluntarily first.
When can the FDA order a cosmetic recall?
According to the FDA guidance, two criteria must both be met. There must be a reasonable probability that the product is adulterated or misbranded, and a reasonable probability that using it will cause serious adverse health consequences or death. Before ordering, the FDA gives the company a chance to recall voluntarily.
Does this FDA rule apply in Indonesia?
No. The FDA's mandatory recall guidance applies in the United States. In Indonesia, cosmetics are overseen by BPOM. Before buying cosmetics, follow Cek KLIK by checking the packaging, label, distribution permit and expiry date, and make sure the product is registered with BPOM.
How do I choose skincare for acne-prone skin?
Dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology recommend gentle, alcohol-free products, washing your face up to twice a day, not popping pimples, and wearing non-comedogenic sunscreen. In Kira's example result, the ingredients to look for include salicylic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.
Sources
Facts in this article refer to the sources below.
- Skincare
- Keamanan kosmetik
- Jerawat
- Berita kecantikan
