Sunscreen products are “any preparation (such as creams, oils, gels, sprays) intended to be placed in contact with the human skin with a view exclusively or mainly to protecting it from UV radiation by absorbing, scattering or reflecting radiation” and they fall within the scope of the EU Cosmetics Regulation. To ensure sunscreen products’ safety...
The term “hypoallergenic” is not strictly defined by many regulatory bodies, but it generally implies that a product is formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. Unlike terms like “dermatologically tested” or “clinically proven,” which have clearer scientific implications, “hypoallergenic” is often used more loosely in marketing. However, for brands that want to make...
Dermatological testing is a vital practice in the cosmetic industry that ensures product safety and efficacy. Understanding the regulatory framework and the claims that can be made based on testing outcomes is essential for manufacturers aiming to comply with international standards and provide safe products to consumers. Dermatological testing involves evaluating the effects of cosmetic...
In the competitive world of cosmetics, consumers increasingly seek products that not only enhance their appearance but also deliver on promised benefits. To meet these expectations and comply with regulatory standards, efficacy testing has become a crucial element in the development and marketing of cosmetic products within the European Union. Efficacy testing evaluates the ability...
Heavy metals, such as Pb (lead), As (arsenic), Cd (cadmium), Hg (mercury), and Sb (antimony), which have a density greater than 5 g/cm3 and exhibit metallic properties, can pose significant health risks if present in cosmetics. These toxic substances can have adverse effects on human health, including skin irritation, allergic reactions, and long-term health issues...
Stability test helps ensure that a cosmetics maintains its intended physical, chemical, and microbiological properties over time. This process verifies that factors like appearance, color, odor, viscosity, and pH remain consistent, and that the product’s efficacy and safety are not compromised under various storage conditions. Guidelines and Standards for Stability Testing The Cosmetic Guidelines on...
Challenge test (Preservative Efficacy Test) is a procedure used to assess the effectiveness of preservatives in cosmetic and personal care products. The primary purpose of this test is to evaluate the ability of preservatives to prevent microbial contamination and growth in the product over time. Microbial contamination can lead to product spoilage, reduced shelf life,...
Before opening the original packaging of cosmetic products and during their use by the end user, the efficacy of the preservative used must be tested to ensure that they remain microbiologically stable. Challenge test examines the efficacy of the preservatives and determines whether your product is protected by the preservatives you use against any microbiological...
Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 sets out comprehensive requirements for the safety assessment, manufacturing, and marketing of cosmetics in the EU market. According to Article 3 of the regulation, cosmetics must not cause harm to human health when used under normal or reasonably foreseeable conditions. To comply with these requirements, manufacturers must conduct a safety assessment...
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) are essential for ensuring the quality and safety of cosmetic products. In the European Union (EU), cosmetics are regulated under the new EU Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. This regulation outlines the requirements for the manufacture, testing, and marketing of cosmetics, emphasizing the need for high standards of production to protect...
