After 10 years of study, the cabinet has approved changes to cosmetic regulations.

To justify the change, the department points to cases where consumers have lost hair, suffered serious swelling or sustained eye injuries.

The federal government estimates that users of these products are victims of at least 900,000 minor undesirable effects annually. Only about 50 cases are reported to authorities.

"Even though most of the ingredients contained in cosmetics are harmless, some of them can cause unwanted reactions, from minor irritations to allergic reactions and even toxic reactions," said department documents.

The Canadian Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association, which represents manufacturers and marketers, welcomed the regulatory change.

It recognizes that consumers have for many years wanted to know the ingredients of cosmetics, the association said.

Since the requirements have already existed in Europe and the United States, several companies already list ingredients. Others were awaiting government standards.

Health Canada hopes the listing of ingredients will reduce reactions and save $7.5 million in annual health-care costs.