Since 11th July 2013, the new regulation EC 1223/2009 which regulates cosmetic products, enters into force to all countries in the European Union. This regulation regulates the rules that a cosmetic product must meet in order to be sold in Europe.
The purpose of the regulation EC 1223/2009 is to raise the health safety standard for consumers, defining requirements and procedures to be respected in order to get a safe cosmetic, but also to protect the EU market from the introduction of non-compliant products from non-EU markets.
IN SHORT
To summarize briefly, the changes introduced by this regulation are the following:
- A clear and unequivocal Definition of the cosmetic product, so as not to be confused with other classes of products (drugs and medical devices)
- The introduction of the concept of Responsible Person, i.e. the one who guarantees the safety of the cosmetic product and can be prosecuted in cases of non-conformity with the provisions of this Regulation .
- Restrictions applied to certain classes of Cosmetic ingredients. (Ex. Preservatives, UV Filters, Colorants).
- Provisions regarding the Safety Assessment, the Product Information File (PIF) and Notification (CPNP)
- Labelling: cosmetic products shall be made available on the market only where the container and packaging of cosmetic products bear the certain information in indelible, easily legible end visible lettering
- Identification and management of nano-materials (with separate notification).
- Claims Regulation, advertising statements on the product must be supported by appropriate tests.
- Market Surveillance
- Creation of a common EU database on any side effects.
- Introduction of Cosmetics Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), in order to ensure safe and quality products.
- Prohibition of Animal Testing.
