Cosmetics Products are comprised from a combination of various chemical substances extracted from either natural or synthetic sources. Cosmetics generally designed for the care of the skin can be utilized to cleanse, hydrate, and revitalize the skin, and/or replenish it, through the application of facial cleansers, toners, moisturizers, and astringents. Some cosmetics, such as lipsticks, also have the purpose of protecting the lip color from chipping and fading. Other cosmeceuticals have been designed with the primary purpose of alleviating or preventing sunburn, increasing skin elasticity, reducing wrinkles, and healing acne and other skin problems. These cosmeceuticals may contain ingredients such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Coenzyme Q10, alpha lipoic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), mandelic acid, glycolic acid, and various oil derivatives such as olive oil, grape seed oil, and aloe vera.
Cosmetics products in the European Union are standardized according to the European Standard Organization’s Cosmetic Ingredient Standard, which is known as themons Europium. In the US, the Cosmetics Manufacturers Association is the governing body that sets the standards for cosmetics ingredients in the cosmetics industry. The European Union attempts to restrict the uses of some dangerous ingredients, while approving the use of other dangerous ingredients. Cosmetic companies are required to list ingredients by the number on their labels.
Health and fitness are two of the most growing segments in the personal care products market. The health and fitness market is comprised primarily of health and beauty products such as hair care, skin care, bath and body, personal care products, dietary supplements, home health care products, and medical supplies. There are also a huge health and beauty product industry that is estimated to be worth billions of dollars annually. The personal care products market is increasing due to a variety of reasons including the ever increasing number of people suffering from various diseases and aging, the increased awareness of health and fitness throughout the world, the increased price of many cosmetics products due to rising demand, and the liberalization of cosmetic product standards.
The use of cosmetics in personal care products and health and beauty products has become more commonplace because of their effectiveness and safety. Cosmetics use natural ingredients in their formulation instead of chemicals. Many of the ingredients commonly found in cosmetics formulas have been found to be toxic or carcinogenic in nature, however, these chemicals are required to be listed on the label of cosmetics products. It is essential for manufacturers to list the chemicals used in the formulations of personal care products and health and beauty products. In Europe, cosmetics manufacturers are required to use the GHS for the purpose of determining the identity and purity of ingredients in cosmetics products. The European Union has lead responsibility for ensuring the safety of cosmetics in the European area, but each member state has the ability to ensure its own safety regulations and listing requirements.
Cosmetics product safety is further compromised when in the store, when using an applicator or sponge, when applying make-up on your face or teeth, when taking them internally, when washing your hands or utensils, when taking a shower or bath, or when sexual activity occurs. Allergic reactions can also be caused by the application of cosmetic ingredients. These adverse reactions include redness, mild rashes, itching, and watery eyes or nose. Cosmetic products should also be tested on a small area of skin before using it on the rest of your body to ensure that there will be no reaction. Cosmetics product testing should be performed according to the guidelines set by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel, which is set down in the UK.
To conclude, personal care products and cosmetics contain many common criteria for successful manufacture. The manufacturing standards are stringent and adherence to these strict rules ensures that cosmetics products achieve maximum consumer protection. The UK cosmetic product information file includes a Cosmetics Ingredients List that has been put together after considerable years of research and hard work by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Cosmetics companies are now required by law to provide the Cosmetics Ingredients List on their packaging, alongside their manufacturing details and all information relating to the manufacturing processes and ingredients used. Cosmetics Ingredient Review Expert Panels now maintains Cosmetics Ingredient Lists, which is updated on a regular basis and which are accessible to the public.