A dropper bottle of CBD oil surrounded by marijuana leaves on a white surface - cbd cosmetics regulation

CBD cosmetics regulations: A guide to ensuring compliance

In recent years, cannabidiol (CBD) has gained popularity as an ingredient in cosmetic skincare products. CBD, a key compound derived from the cannabis plant, is distinct from THC in that it has no psychoactive effects. Several studies have highlighted CBD’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and moisturising properties, making it a promising addition to skincare formulations. CBD has …

A white security camera mounted on a gray wall - cosmetovigilance in cosmetics regulations

Cosmetovigilance in cosmetics regulations: A guide to adverse effects and regulatory frameworks

The year 2013 marked a pivotal moment for the European cosmetics industry with the implementation of the new European Regulation 1223/2009. This regulation replaced the previous Directive 76/768/EEC, bringing significant updates to cosmetic legislation across the EU. One of the most important—but often overlooked—changes introduced by this regulation was the systematic integration of Cosmetovigilance, a …

A gloved hand using a pipette to transfer a liquid into a small vial - challenge test in cosmetics

The Challenge Test in Cosmetics: A Guide to microbiological quality standards

What Is The Challenge Test? The challenge test evaluates the effectiveness of a cosmetic product’s preservative system during production, storage, and the entire period of use by the end consumer. It is conducted during the product’s development phase. Essentially, the test simulates the microbiological stress the product will encounter under normal conditions of use and …

Three Union Jack flags hanging against a blue sky-submit cosmetic product notification SCPN UK

Submit Cosmetic Product Notification UK: A Guide

On 31 January 2020, the United Kingdom left the European Union, becoming a third country with its own regulations for the various sectors, including the cosmetics sector. The reference regulation for cosmetic products placed on the market in the United Kingdom is “The Product Safety and Metrology etc. (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, Schedule …

A row of six lipsticks in different colors, lined up on a black background.

Pre-packaged packaging regulations: Conformity to nominal content requirements

The Control of Pre-Packaged Packaging With the increasing development of large-scale distribution, pre-packaged packaging is becoming increasingly important. In light of this, the European Community legislator, and subsequently the legislators of various Member States, deemed it necessary to impose certain rules on manufacturing companies, the pre-packaged packaging regulations. Below, we provide a general overview of …

A collection of perfume bottles on a table

Fragrance safety in cosmetics: Regulations and guidelines

Like all cosmetics, fragrances are regulated by specific rules to ensure their safety. Perfume is used within a cosmetic product, which is defined under Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 (see the latest consolidated version, including recent regulatory updates). As such, it is subject to various obligations regarding its content, the packaging in which it is marketed, …

An industrial chimney releasing white smoke against a clear blue sky.

PFAS in cosmetics: a comprehensive overview

What Are PFAS and Why Are They Used in Cosmetics? PFAS stands for Per/Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, which includes compounds like PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) and PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid). These man-made chemicals are not found naturally in the environment and are known for their stability due to their long carbon chains, making them impermeable to water and grease. …

A cluttered office desk with piles of papers, documents, and CDs scattered across it.

Cosmetic product information file (PIF): A comprehensive guide

Under the European Cosmetics Regulation (EU Regulation No. 1223/2009), the Responsible Person marketing a cosmetic product in Europe must ensure the product is safe for human health under all expected usage conditions, prioritising consumer protection. You can read our blog article on the role and obligations of the Responsible Person. To meet this obligation, they …

Close-up of three glass bottles of cosmetic products

Refillable cosmetics regulations in the EU: A guide to safety and sustainability

As global temperatures and sea levels continue to rise, the urgency of individual and collective environmental responsibility has never been greater. The cosmetics industry, in particular, must play its part in minimising its impact on environmental pollution. Recently, there has been a noticeable shift in this direction, with many companies investing in sustainable practices and …