Labelling

The EU Cosmetics Regulation (Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009) sets out the labelling requirements for cosmetic products sold in the EU. According to the regulation, all cosmetic products must be labelled in a language that can be easily understood by the consumer. Common criteria as defined in 655/2013 should also be applied not to mislead the consumer.

Accurate and clear labelling help the consumers to make informed choices about the products they use and also ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. In the European Union (EU), cosmetics are subject to strict labelling requirements that must be followed by the Responsible Person, manufacturers and/or distributors.

The label must include the following information:

• The name and address of the Responsible Person, who placed the product on the EU market;
• Manufacturer’s name and address (recommended);
• The nominal content of the product, expressed in weight or volume;
• Expiry date (date of minimum durability or PAO. (Period after opening) for products which durability is more than 30 months);
• Any specific precautions for use;
• Product country of origin (“Made in … “ only if manufactured outside the European Union);
• The batch number or the reference for identifying the cosmetic product;
• A list of ingredients (INCI list = International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients). The ingredients must be listed in descending order of weight, with the exception of those present in concentrations of less than 1% for non-coloring ingredients and less than 0.1% for coloring ingredients.

The labelling requirements are an essential aspect of regulatory compliance for cosmetics manufacturers and distributors in the EU. By following the guidelines outlined in the EU Cosmetics Regulation, Companies ensure that their products are labelled accurately and clearly, enabling consumers to make informed decisions about the products they use.