FDA Requirements for Cosmetic Labeling

For a cosmetic to be legally sold in the United States, it must meet certain labeling requirements set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These requirements are designed to ensure that consumers have the information they need to use cosmetic products, including cosmetics, skin care and related products, safely and effectively.

Here are some of the most important labelling standards that cosmetic manufacturers must meet:

The label must identify the product as "cosmetic"
This may seem simple, but it's an important distinction. Non-cosmetic products, such as soaps and shampoos, are subject to different labels prescribed by the FDA.

On the other hand, if a product is not labeled cosmetically, it may not be FDA compliant. For example, some products sold as "soap" may not meet the FDA's definition of soap and may not be subject to the same labeling requirements, but if you sell blush, the label must state "blush" or "rouge" .

Of course, just because a product is labeled cosmetic doesn't guarantee it's safe. This simply means that the product meets the FDA's minimum standards.

The label must list the ingredients of the product
One of the most important things that must appear on a cosmetic label is the ingredient list. This list must be in descending order of dominance and include everything that is 1% or more present in the container.

Contents less than 1% can be listed in any order after 1% or more.

Color additives and other items exempt from public disclosure may be listed on the container as "and other ingredients."

If the cosmetic is also a drug, the label must first list the drug as an "active ingredient" and then list the rest.

For example, let's say you have an accessory such as a makeup brush. In this case, the label must state the properties of the fibers that make up the makeup bristles.

The label must state the net amount of the contents
All cosmetic products must have a label stating the net amount of contents. This must be in English, and the label on the package should be prominent and conspicuous so that it can be easily noticed and understood by consumers under the customary conditions of purchase.

The net quantity must also include the weight, size or quantity of the contents. For example, cosmetic products may be labeled as "net weight". 12 oz" or "contains 12 fl oz."

These are just some of the most important things that all cosmetic manufacturers have to meet. Failure to comply can lead to serious consequences, such as recalls or even bans from selling their products.

What else needs to be included?
As we discussed, under FDA regulations, beauty product labels must include many things, but manufacturers must also include:

Name and address of manufacturer, packer or distributor
Use by date or expiration date if applicable
This isn't a complete list, but it does give you an idea of ​​what must be on the label of any cosmetic product.

Keep this in mind the next time you shop for makeup to make sure you get what you expect. And, as always, if you have any questions about a specific product, please contact the manufacturer directly.

What if you don't include this information?
FDA may take enforcement action against you. This could be a warning letter or even a recall of your product, so you must comply.

There can be a lot to track, but it's important to make sure your products are properly labeled to ensure consumers know exactly what they're buying.

If you have any questions, please contact the FDA or an attorney specializing in this area. And, as always, stay updated with all the latest news and information.

In conclusion
It's important that your container packaging includes a label that reveals the contents of each beauty product. If you're not sure, do your research before including it in your product.

By following this guide and making sure your products comply with FDA labeling laws, you can help protect yourself and your customers from potential harm.