How U.S. Law Defines Cosmetics

​

The Federal Food, Drug & Cosmetic Act defines cosmetics as “articles intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled, or sprayed on, introduced into, or otherwise applied to the human body…for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance.” Included in this definition are products such as skin moisturizers, perfumes, lipsticks, fingernail polishes, eye and facial makeup preparations, shampoos, permanent waves, hair colors, toothpaste, and deodorants, as well as any material intended for use as a component of a cosmetic product.

​

With so much to consider, our expert FDA consultants will help you to navigate through the regulations you must be in compliance with.

​

Authorities of FDA on cosmetics

 

Neither the law nor FDA regulations require specific tests to demonstrate the safety of individual products or ingredients. Rather, FDA has consistently advised manufacturers to use whatever testing that is deemed necessary to ensure the safety of their products and ingredients. Firms may substantiate safety in a number of ways. FDA has stated that “the safety of a product can be adequately substantiated through (a) reliance on already available toxicological test data on individual ingredients and on product formulations that are similar in composition to the particular cosmetic, and (b) performance of any additional toxicological and other tests that are appropriate in light of such existing data and information.” (Federal Register, March 3, 1975, page 8916).