Today, it is completely impossible and illegal to sell unregulated cosmetics on the market. And that's normal.
If products must meet different European standards such as regulation 1223/2009 or 655/2013 , it is to protect consumer health.
However, all these standards and official documents can be daunting at first. Costomise explains the various laws that govern the cosmetics market.
The various regulations
The reason cosmetic products undergo so many tests is primarily to ensure their safety.
Here are the two types of regulations that concern the sector.
The one for development
This affects all standards related to the development and creation of the product itself:
– Allergen testing;
– IFRA;
– Toxicological expertise.
These are the substances that are analyzed and perfectly dosed in order to avoid including allergenic/irritant components or exceeding the tolerance thresholds of certain ingredients.
The Product Information File (PIF) is a mandatory step in marketing your product. In addition to the ingredients , it's important to include several elements such as stability, the identity of the responsible person, the manufacturing method, etc.
This application complies with Directive 76/768/EEC and allows the product to be marketed in Europe.
The one for cosmetic production
Other rules apply to the production of the product. These are concentrated in Good Manufacturing Practices , which comply with the European standard ISO 22716.
These standards are dictated in EU regulation No. 655-2013 of 10 July 2013.
Here, it is the product design itself that is controlled. This regulation helps prevent manufacturing or packaging errors, but also monitors hygiene and cleaning to prevent contamination.
These GMPs mainly concern:
– production;
– storage;
– quality control.
What is the purpose of cosmetic regulations?
To protect the consumer
Of course, the regulatory framework of the sector is there to protect the consumer ! That's THE primary reason. It goes without saying that it's essential not to endanger the health of the person who will use the cream, oil, shampoo, or other product.
Compliance with regulations is a guarantee of quality and customer trust.
For sale internationally
European Union regulations in the cosmetics sector are among the strictest .
With the arrival of new Asian or Indian competitors, who do not have the same standards, complying with EU laws allows us to have quality products that can be exported abroad .
To be eligible for certification
Labeling (organic, vegan, etc.) is not part of the legislation as such. However, fully complying with legal procedures is the first step in the process of applying for labels.
The risks of selling an unregulated cosmetic product
In addition to compromising customer safety, failing to comply with applicable laws puts you at risk of having your products removed from sale .
Indeed, thanks to the DIP, the ANSM can control the various products placed on the market whenever it sees fit and withdraw them if it finds a non-conformity.
“In recent years, it is mainly terms such as “natural”, “organic” or even “without” and “with” that have been subject to verification.”
Are you planning to create your own eco-friendly cosmetics? Let's discuss how we can help you!