10 Questions You Should to Know about Face Care Products Manufacturers

08 Apr.,2024

 

As skincare continues to become an important aspect of our daily life, many of us still have some unanswered questions. let`s consider what questions would you ask the doctor to know more about the care of your facial skin. The following questions are the most popular when selecting a skincare routine strategy for different skin types. This blog will answer 31 of the most asked skincare questions.

Skincare Questions: How to Know Your Skin Type?

The most common skin types are dry, combination, and oily. Commonly, dry skin causes feelings of tightness around the eyes and mouth, as well as patches of flaky skin around the cheek area. Combination skin presents a shine on the nose and forehead and also includes dry patches on the cheek area. Whereas oily skin is generally soft and greasy to the touch and gives the cheeks an overly shiny surface.

Do You Really Need to Wash Your Face in the Morning?

Yes, you should wash your face twice daily, preferably with a gentle cleanser. This is because bacteria builds up in your skin overnight, so it is important to wash it off in the morning. Washing your face in the morning also acts as a great primer before applying your morning skincare routine. An effective gentle cleanser is Osmosis' Cleanse. It works to remove impurities, makeup, and dirt without damaging the skin barrier.

More importantly, you should always wash your face before you go to bed! Dirt, makeup, and environmental toxins accumulate on your face throughout the day. Washing your face at night removes these impurities and stops pores from becoming clogged.

Best Face Washes for all skin type


  • Osmosis Purify Enzyme Cleanser is an effective treatment for daily skin purification. The blend of kiwi, kumquat, papain, and bromelain dissolves all kinds of dirt effectively. Due to active enzymes, the purifier removes environmental pollutants, makeup, and bacteria without disrupting the skin barrier. It cleanses pores preparing the epidermis for further treatment.
  • Jan Marini Age Intervention Gentle Cleanser is a gentle product for sensitive skin purification after procedures. The mix of botanical extracts and chemical components creates a powerful product for deep but gentle purification. The treatment is effective for all kinds of pollutants, including dust, microbes, and makeup. The product removes dirt without epidermis irritation.
  • Evenswiss Edelweiss Cleanser is a powerful treatment for the removal of different contaminants from the skin surface. Formulated with Edelweiss extract and Dermatopoietin, the product acts gently but deeply. Due to its jelly texture, botanical extracts come into reaction with pollutants, dissolving and removing them from the skin surface without disrupting the hydro-lipid barrier.
  • Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel is an innovative treatment for daily application. The product has an easily melting texture due to the blend of oils and floral extracts, which allows for dissolving all sorts of dirt. The blend of vitamins, floral extracts, and active ingredients purifies the skin surface without leaving a feeling of stitching, irritation, or dehydration. Its gel consistency is effective for application and acts deeply, purifying pores.

Is a New Skincare Routine Necessary When Working From Home?

The coronavirus pandemic has caused a change in our environments, such as spending more time indoors. It is a good idea to create a new skincare routine to accommodate those changes. For example, if you are using a lot of central heating whilst working from home, you should incorporate a high-quality moisturiser into your skincare routine in order to combat excessive dryness. The Collagen Hydrator from PCA Skin is great for this as it has remarkable hydrating qualities. It works to instantly revive dehydrated skin and maintain healthy moisture levels.

What Is Vitamin C and How Does It Add to Your Skincare Routine?

Vitamin C is a nutrient found in the body that has advantageous effects when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Many people also apply it topically. Vitamin C has incredible anti-aging effects, as it can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. As well as this, due to its powerful antioxidant properties, it protects the skin from free radical damage. This means it prevents premature skin aging. Furthermore, vitamin C enhances collagen production and helps to create tighter and younger looking skin overall.

Best Vitamin C Products


  • Jan Marini C Esta Face Serum is an excellent product for skin protection against free radicals since Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. A high concentration of the vitamin in this serum helps protect the epidermis from UV exposure and boosts cellular renovation processes. Its lipid-soluble formula is absorbed easily, meaning that nutrients reach cells and nourish them. Skin firmness and a radiant complexion come as pleasant side effects.
  • Endocare C Ferulic Edafence Serum is a multi-spectrum treatment that delivers reliable protection against external impacts. The product is one of the top treatments in Endocare`s skincare line. Formulated with vitamin C, ferulic acid, and antioxidants, the blend reinforces the ability of cells to withstand the negative influence of UV radiation and free radicals. Besides, it makes the skin surface brighter and firmer and evens out the complexion.
  • Osmosis Skincare Catalyst AC-11 DNA Repair C Serum is an innovative treatment with a patented formula. The main advantages of the product are the ability to boost DNA damage repair by up to 33% and provide powerful protection against UV exposure. The blend of acids, extracts, and vitamins creates a super-charge formula; its components penetrate cells, reinforcing their ability to cope with environmental aggressors.
  • Endocare C Pure Concentrate is a high-concentration treatment targeted at aging skin. Besides vitamin C 15%, acids, extracts, snail secretion filtrate, and nutrients are added to the content, which makes the product highly nourishing. Active components are easily absorbed and penetrate the deepest layers of the skin. A super blend of ingredients slows down aging signs, prevents sagging and pigmentation, and pumps barrier properties.
  • Indeed Labs Vitamin C24 is a versatile product that acts as a moisturizer and a serum all in one. Due to a rich blend of components, it causes a multi-spectrum action. The content comprises vitamin C 22%, Hyaluronic acid, and other nutrients for deep and powerful absorption. The treatment possesses brightening properties, preventing premature skin aging and hyperpigmentation. The product is suitable for sensitive skin due to its mild effect.
  • Oskia Super C Smart Nutrient Beauty Capsules are super-charged treatments for boosting overall skin health and boosting cellular processes to guarantee proper renewal. However, the accent is on protection from damage caused by environmental factors, such as UV sunlight radiation. Vitamin C comes as a powerful antioxidant to withstand free radicals. The product is suitable for all skin types, including aging.

How Do You Apply Retinol?

More often than not, retinol appears in night-time skincare routines. This is because this powerful substance removes dead skin cells from the upper layer of the skin’s surface. This resultantly makes skin more vulnerable to sun damage. Moreover, you should begin by applying retinol 3 times a week and then gradually increase the frequency. This is due to the strength of retinol. By increasing the frequency gradually, you allow your skin to become familiar with the product, therefore minimising irritation.

It's also important that you apply a high-quality moisturiser after using retinol to help soothe potential dryness or irritation. As well as this, in the morning, make sure to apply SPF30+. This will protect your skin from the potential sun damage that retinol can lead to.

Does the Way You Sleep Affect Your Face Shape?

Over time, sleep can change the shape and appearance of your skin. This is because your face is compressed into your pillow every night for multiple hours. Ultimately, this can flatten the surface of your skin and cause wrinkles to form. Therefore, it is important to change your pillows every 1-2 years to help enhance the support for your skin.

What Should I Apply First in My Skincare Routine, Moisturiser or SPF?

Moisturiser should always be applied first. As a result, this allows the moisturiser to penetrate into the skin before SPF application. Also, SPF should always be the final step in your skincare routine as it is a thicker consistency, so it must not overshadow the thinner products.

WHAT THE BEST SPF FOR FACE

  • Heliocare 360 Gel Oil-Free SPF50 is a top product for skin protection from all sorts of radiation. It has the highest sunscreen filter and guarantees the creation of a reliable shield on the skin surface. Due to its gel texture, the product melts on the face without forming a sensitive film. The sunscreen reflects all sorts of UV rays and prevents cells from penetration of free radicals.
  • Osmosis Skincare Protect SPF30 is an advanced treatment for all skin types, which not only protects the epidermis from radiation but also assists and boosts sun-related damage repair. Thus, it`s a broad-spectrum treatment that helps keep cells protected and healthy. Its light soft texture does not leave the feeling of presence on the surface. The blend of minerals nourishes cells.
  • PCA Skin Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF45 is an effective, 100% safe protector from negative sun exposure. A high SPF factor forms a reliable shield on the epidermis, preventing free radicals and environmental aggressors from damaging cell structures. The blend includes antioxidants and anti-aging ingredients, which allows for refining the skin texture. Moreover, the product is certified by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
  • Jan Marini Physical Protectant Tinted SPF45 is a powerful sunscreen of broad action. High-quality physical filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are used to form a protective barrier from sun radiation and free radicals. The product`s formula is enriched with CoEnzyme Q10, alpha-bisabol, and green tea extract, which provides soothing, antioxidant, and nourishing effects.
  • Neostrata Sheer Hydration SPF40 is a high-quality certified sunscreen for any skin type. Its formula contains NeoGlucosamine and a floral mix, making the product nourishing. It`s oil-free and forms a light non-sensitive shield on the surface. The treatment regulates skin oiliness and does not clog pores. A rich formula helps prevent any negative impact of the environment on skin cells and prolongs their functioning.>

Does SPF Need to Be Applied Indoors or When It's Cloudy?

As mentioned previously, SPF is a vital part of any skincare routine and should be the last step. It's even important on days when the sun is not as abrasive. Even in the winter months, dangerous UV rays can still penetrate through clouds, and even windows, making you vulnerable to harsh skin damage. This is especially the case if your skin is not fully protected. Sun damage can lead to dark spots, wrinkles and in some cases, skin cancer. SPF needs to be applied daily!

How Can You Treat Acne and Anxiety-Induced Flare-ups With Skincare?

Anxiety-induced breakouts are very common and are often caused by excess oil secretion brought on by our body’s stress response. As well as learning psychological techniques to cope with stress and anxiety, you may also benefit from using BHAs, such as salicylic acid. These help break down the excess oil found in inflamed or clogged pores. Additionally, using products containing benzoyl peroxide is a great way to fight against the bacteria that causes acne. This helps to keep future breakouts at bay.

How Do I Get Rid of Dark Circles Under My Eyes Permanently?

Dark circles are very common and are usually a sign of aging and/or a loss of collagen in the eye area. To remove them permanently, try a combination of clinical and natural remedies. For example, try undergoing a light chemical peel that uses glycolic acid, to help stimulate collagen production and give the skin a glowing complexion. At home, apply a cold compress to the affected area for 10 minutes, both in the morning and the evening.

Best Products For Dark Circles Under Eyes

  • Neostrata Brightening Eye Cream is a powerful treatment for thin epidermis around the eyes. Its formula is enriched with peptides, antioxidants, vitamins, and algae extracts to provide a broad-spectrum action on cells and eliminate visible problems. The blend of ingredients has a brightening effect, smoothens the skin tone, and nourishes cells for better functioning.
  • Evenswiss Rejuvenating Eye Complex is a blend of multi-purpose ingredients to achieve a versatile effect. The treatment is formulated with Dermatopoietin, Vitamin B3, Argan oil, and Sea Buckthorn oil to supply all the needed nutrients to cells. The regular application of the product helps avoid puffiness and eliminate under-eye bags.
  • Osmosis Skincare Refresh Eye Serum is a super-charged treatment that helps keep sensitive skin under the eyes toned and healthy-looking. Its rich formula includes Niacinamide, botanical extracts, vitamins, and peptides to fight dark circles effectively. By penetrating cells, ingredients stimulate elastin and collagen production, reduce puffiness, and even out the skin complexion.
  • Dr Levy Eye Booster Concentrate is a highly powerful but gentle solution for delicate under-eye epidermis. The formula is enriched with ArganCellActiv® stem cells, which allows for reducing fine lines, brightening the skin tone, and restoring firmness. The use of Liposomal technology guarantees deep penetration into cells and effective exposure of ingredients.
  • Oskia Eye Wonder is an innovative treatment for thin sensitive under-eye epidermis. Its rich formula is powered by vitamins, acids, peptides, and other nutrients to keep cells toned, healthy, and firm. The regular application of the treatment boosts cellular processes, prevents dark circles and other tone-related problems, and eliminates fine lines.
  • Jan Marini Transformation Eye Cream is a super tool for rejuvenating cells under the eyes and preventing multiple problems. The product has a potent formula enriched with peptides, Growth Factor beta 1, hyaluronic acid, and Thymosin beta 4, which tackles dark circles, dryness, and fine lines. Due to an innovative blend of components, the product causes a broad-spectrum action.

What Will Help Tighten Your Skin?

There are a variety of different treatments and products that help to improve the skin’s elasticity and tighten the overall surface. For example, ingredients such as aloe vera contain malic acid, which helps to create plumper and younger looking skin. Moreover, techniques such as lymphatic massage, use specialist tools to increase blood circulation around affected areas, creating firmer skin. Lastly, products such as retinol serums offer incredible anti-aging results, helping more attractive skin to form over time.

How Can You Remove Blackheads?

Blackheads form when excess hair and oil become clogged in an open pore. The most effective way to remove blackheads is by getting a high-quality facial treatment.

A great example is a chemical peel. This is because chemical peels, especially those that use salicylic acid, help to exfoliate the skin and unclog affected pores, giving you a clearer and blemish-free complexion.

Is There a DIY Treatment for Acne Scars?

Acne scars are extremely common but luckily usually require little to no treatment. However, if you suffer from serious acne, or have a compulsion to pick your spots, acne scarring can occur more intensely.

There's a range of treatments which help to reduce and remove acne scars, as well as things you can do to help get rid of them yourself. These include using salicylic acid and lactic acid which help to exfoliate the skin. Retinol products are also a great way to increase skin cell turnover, helping to reduce scarring.

Do You Need to Use Toners and What Are They?

One of the most uncertain skincare questions is the purpose of toners and whether they're necessary. Essentially, toners are products that are used to remove excess oil, makeup and dirt. In reality, toners are not necessary, especially if you are using an effective cleanser. This is because they can often lead to dryness or irritation. However, toners do help to shrink the size of enlarged pores, which is helpful for those with an oily skin type or acne-prone skin.

Best Toners


  • PCA Skin Hydrating Toner is an effective treatment for daily skincare. It consists of botanical extracts and oils, which makes it highly nourishing. The product normalizes the epidermis`s pH level after the application of purifiers. The use of active ingredients also provides antioxidant protection.
  • Evenswiss Edelweiss Dermal Phytotonic is a blend of natural botanical extracts that boost cellular processes and stimulate the production of vital components (namely, elastin and collagen). By supplying these ingredients into cells, the treatment accelerates skin rejuvenation
  • PCA Skin Daily Defense Mist is a powerful treatment for application throughout the day to keep cells hydrated and prevent dehydration, which eventually leads to skin aging. Its rich formula prevents moisture loss and retains water molecules in cells.
  • Oskia Floral Water Toner is another powerful solution for regular application during morning and evening skincare rituals. The content is enriched by vitamins, botanical extracts, and juices, due to which the blend calms the epidermis, normalizes its hydro-lipid level, and creates protection against external aggressors.
  • Indeed Labs No-acid Pads are used for gentle exfoliation. Since no harsh chemical acids are used in the blend (they are replaced by prebiotics and natural extracts), the treatment does not cause itching, redness, or irritation. Pads act gently, cleansing pores and removing dead cell particles.

How Can I Get Rid of Dry Skin at Home?

Dry skin is a common skin concern which is easily treatable at home. All you need to do is improve your skincare routine. For example, try using a natural moisturiser that contains no irritants. An example of a good natural moisturiser is pure aloe vera gel. Adding on to this, wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser to help wash away any dirt or unwanted dead skin. Finally, make sure to exfoliate once a week to help remove excess dry skin and encourage increased cell turnover.

What Are the Acne Treatments to Prevent Dry Skin?

Often acne sufferers complain about having dry patches that accompany their breakouts. Luckily, dermoi offers the perfect solution. The Osmosis Acne Healing Treatment uses a 2% vitamin A infusion to restore the quality of the epidermis and allow for complete hydro-lipid balance. As a result, this treatment reduces harsh inflammation and leaves you with a clearer and brighter complexion.

Is It Better to Use Vitamin C Serum in the Morning or at Night?

Vitamin C serums offer a multitude of benefits when incorporated into both your morning and evening skincare routine.

Using a vitamin C serum as part of your morning skincare routine means that your skin is better able to neutralise harmful free radicals. These can build up throughout the day and tear down much-needed skin collagen. On the other hand, when using vitamin C serums as part of your evening routine, you can avoid the risk of dangerous photosensitivity. This is because vitamin C can make skin more sensitive to sunlight.

How Can You Prevent Skin From Aging?

Unfortunately, aging skin is a natural part of getting older, but there are some things you can do to help stop your skin from aging prematurely. First of all, apply sunscreen every day to protect your skin against harmful sun damage. Sun damage can lead to the formation of wrinkles and dark spots. It is also recommended that you use gentle cleansers to avoid unnecessary dryness or irritation, which can cause the skin to become inflamed.

Collagen supplements, such as Skinade, are another great way to combat skin aging. As we age, collagen production decreases at a rate of 1% per year. Resultantly, this causes signs of aging including sagging skin, dullness, wrinkles, and dryness. Collagen supplements target and reverse these effects.


When Should I Start Using Anti-Aging Skincare Products?

This is one of the most common skincare questions. Many experts advise that you begin using anti-aging products in your 20s and continue to incorporate them as part of your daily skincare routine. This is because your skin stops producing collagen in your 20s. Resultantly, anti-aging products offer preventative measures against the visible signs of aging.


Best Anti Aging Products


  • Osmosis Skincare StemFactor Growth Factor Serum is a powerful weapon for aging skin. Enriched with several growth factors, the blend acts effectively and boosts cellular processes to cause accelerated rejuvenation, renewal, and healing. A combined action of all components increases firmness, smoothes fine lines, and reduces wrinkles.
  • Osmosis Skincare Correct Preventative Retinal Serum is a super-active treatment to slow down skin aging and improve its condition. Retinoid is used to prevent cells from premature aging, boost renovation processes, and reduce visible aging signs. A rich formula supplies vital ingredients to cells, enhancing their nourishment and hydration.
  • Evenswiss Skin Regenerate Serum is an effective product for aging epidermis. The concertation of Dermatopoietin in cells is 8x, which creates a powerful blend of nutrients and activates the self-regenerative capacities of cells. Regular application increases the synthesis of elastin, hyaluronic acid, and collagen by 90%.
  • Oskia Super R Retinoid Sleep Serum Capsules are an advanced treatment for the night care of skin cells. Powered with Retinoids, vitamins, and nutrients, the product takes care of the epidermis throughout the night, nourishing and hydrating cells. Active components activate rejuvenation processes, slowing down aging signs.
  • Evenswiss Regenerating Plasma is a super powerful product for aging epidermis. Its formula activates intracellular processes, which speed up cell renewal mechanisms. Consequently, it leads to the appearance of fine lines and premature aging. This plasma slows down these processes, providing sufficient nutrition, hydration, and care to cells.
  • Multi Action Creamis a working solution for aging skin. A rich blend of Hyaluronic acid, Tocopherol, Soluble collagen, and Albumin boosts cellular processes and nourishes the dermis. Nutrients, vitamins, and peptides ensure sufficient hydration and nutrition. Melting on the skin surface, the cream penetrates cells, supplying essential ingredients to them.
  • Jan Marini Age Intervention Face Creamis a powerful treatment with an innovative patented formula. Essential fatty acids, topical interferon alpha 2, isoflavones, and antioxidants make the product effective and highly active. Ingredients penetrate cells, boosting collagen synthesis, improving skin elasticity, and smoothing fine lines.
  • Dr Levy Booster Serum fights aging signs perfectly. A unique formula of antioxidants, acids, vitamins, and nutrients allows for eliminating wrinkles, improving elasticity, and firming the skin complexion. Due to its light texture, the product is easily absorbed, supplying vital components to cells and causing an instant effect.

How can I get rid of hormonal acne?

It`s one of the common skincare questions. When it comes to hormonal acne, a complex approach is needed. The best solution includes a complex of measures aimed at stabilizing the hormonal background. This approach implies the use of proper skincare products, sticking to a healthy diet, and curing existing physical disorders.


Can stress cause acne?

Here`s one of the most asked skincare questions. Yes, stress can affect acne appearance indirectly. In general, being under stress causes your physical and hormonal state. As a result, pimples and breakouts may appear.


What are the best vitamins for glowing skin?

When looking through popular questions about skin health, this one is topical. To keep the derma healthy and good-looking, it`s vital to nourish cells with essential nutrients. Vitamins, C, B, E are important since they possess antioxidant properties and enhance a protective barrier. Besides, other nutrients are essential. These include Omega fatty acids, Collagen, Selenium, and Zinc.


Which skincare ingredients should I avoid while pregnant?

Pregnant women tend to consider such skincare questions and answers. For them, it`s important to exclude retinoids, salicylic acid, and some essential oils. Cosmetics for pregnant women should not contain benzoyl peroxide hydroquinone, aluminum chloride, parabens, tetracycline, dihydroxyacetone, oxybenzone, phthalates, formaldehyde, and thioglycolic acid.


Are alcohols bad for use on the skin?

Definitely. It`s advisable to exclude alcohol-containing skincare products from your routine since the product tends to make the epidermis dry. While most people need to moisturize cells additionally to maintain the hydro level, alcohol has the opposite effect.

What Is the Best Skincare Line?

On the Dermoi online store, we offer a varied selection of high-quality skincare from an abundance of successful brands. All of the products on Dermoi have been independently selected and reviewed by our expert team of scientists to ensure that we only stock the highest quality of products. Our scientific team is constantly on the look out for the next game-changing skincare line. Some of our favourites are

On the Dermoi online store, we offer a varied selection of high-quality skincare from an abundance of successful brands. All of the products on Dermoi have been independently selected and reviewed by our expert team of scientists to ensure that we only stock the highest quality of products. Our scientific team is constantly on the look out for the next game-changing skincare line. Some of our favourites are Osmosis Skinade and PCA Skin

Now that we have answered some of your most pressing skincare questions, we hope that you will be better equipped to care and nourish your skin.

If you want to find out more, or have anymore skincare questions, you can book a free 15 minute skin consultation. Our Chief Scientific Officer Eve Casha is on call to answer any questions you may have. To schedule a free skin consultation, call 0203 9639 920.

Below are frequently asked questions and our answers to them.  We have also provided links to learn more information about each of the specific topics identified below. Feel free to contact the FDA - CFSAN - Outreach and Information Center (salesforce-sites.com) for general cosmetic questions or for specific questions regarding Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA), please contact QuestionsAboutMoCRA@fda.hhs.gov.

1. Does FDA regulate cosmetics?

2. How do I know if my products are regulated as cosmetics, and not as drugs or some other product category?

3. Do I need to have my cosmetic products or ingredients approved by FDA?

4. What do I need to know about using color additives in cosmetics?

5. Do I need to register my cosmetic product facility or list products with FDA?

6. Can I manufacture cosmetics in my home or salon?

7. Can I label my cosmetics “natural” or “organic”?

8. Must I test my products and ingredients?

9. Using available safety data

10. Doing additional testing

11. Can I use a Post Office (P.O.) box or website for the address on the label?

12. Where can I learn more about labeling requirements?

13. What are the local requirements for starting a cosmetics business?

14. Do I need to get a license from FDA to manufacture or market cosmetics?

15. Where can I find more information on FDA requirements I need to know about?

1. Does FDA regulate cosmetics?

Yes. FDA regulates cosmetics under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). Under MoCRA, which expanded FDA’s authority under the FD&C Act law, cosmetics must not be adulterated or misbranded. For example, they must be safe for consumers under labeled or customary conditions of use, and they must be properly labeled. Any color additives they contain must be approved for the intended use, and some must be from batches certified in FDA’s own labs. Packaging and labeling must not be deceptive. If you manufacture or market cosmetics, you have a legal responsibility for the safety and labeling of your products.

To learn more, see “Resources for You: Industry” and “Cosmetics: Guidance and Regulations,” where you will find overviews of the laws, links to the laws and regulations themselves, and more.

2. How do I know if my products are regulated as cosmetics, and not as drugs or some other product category?

A product’s intended use is determined by factors such as product claims, consumer expectations, and certain ingredients. A product is a cosmetic if it is intended for uses such as cleansing the human body, making a person more attractive, or changing a person’s appearance. Here are some examples of products marketed as cosmetics:

  • Makeup
  • Moisturizers
  • Hair dyes, permanent waves, straighteners, and removers
  • Perfumes and colognes

If a product is intended to affect the way a person’s body works, or to treat or prevent disease, it’s a drug, but sometimes it is both a cosmetic and a drug depending on its claims. Drugs must meet different requirements.

Some “personal care products” are regulated by FDA as medical devices or as dietary supplements, while others, including some soaps, are regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). To learn more about these product categories, including how FDA determines a product’s intended use, see Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?).

Here are some more resources:

3. Do I need to have my cosmetic products or ingredients approved by FDA?

The law does not require cosmetic products and ingredients, except for color additives, to be approved by FDA before they go on the market. However, cosmetics must not be adulterated or misbranded. This means that they must be safe for consumers when used according to the labeling, or as people customarily use them, and they must be properly labeled. To learn more, see Key Legal Concepts: Interstate Commerce, Adulterated, and Misbranded.

With the exception of color additives and ingredients that are prohibited or restricted by FDA regulations, you may use any ingredient in your cosmetic, as long as it does not cause the product to be adulterated in any way. You are legally responsible for making sure your cosmetics are safe and properly labeled, in compliance with all the laws and regulations that apply to them.

Remember, however, that not all “personal care products” are regulated as cosmetics under U.S. law. For example, some are regulated as drugs. If your product is a drug under U.S. law, it must meet the requirements for drugs, such as premarket approval. For more information about how some “personal care products” are regulated by FDA as medical devices, while others are regulated by the CPSC, see #2 above.

4. What do I need to know about using color additives in cosmetics?

A color additive, other than coloring materials intended for use as coal-tar hair dyes, must be approved by FDA for the intended use. These color additives are listed in regulations called “listing regulations.” Some may be used only if they are from batches certified in FDA’s own labs. Here are some resources to help you learn more: 

  • Color Additives and Cosmetics — An overview
  • Color Additives Permitted for Use in Cosmetics — A quick-reference table, with links to the listing regulation for each of these color additives
  • Color Additive Regulations — For links to the color additive regulations themselves

5. Do I need to register my cosmetic product facility or list products with FDA?

Yes, you may need to register your facility and list your cosmetics products. Please see our Draft Guidance that describes the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA) requirements for facility registration and product listing, and the exemptions under MoCRA for certain small businesses.

MoCRA exempts certain small businesses from facility registration and product listing.

However, such exemptions do not apply to manufacturers or facilities that manufacture or process the following cosmetic products: 

  • Products that regularly come into contact with mucus membrane of the eye under customary or usual conditions of use.
  • Products that are injected.
  • Products that are intended for internal use.
  • Products that are intended to alter appearance for more than 24 hours under customary or usual conditions of use and removal by the consumer is not part of such conditions of use. 

Exemptions also exist for certain products and facilities that are subject to requirements for drugs and devices (For ex. Class 1 and Class II Device Exemptions).

If, however, your products are drugs, or both cosmetics and drugs, they must meet the requirements for drug registration. Similarly, importers of cosmetic ingredients that are also classified as food products must meet the registration requirements of the Bioterrorism Act of 2002.

6. Can I manufacture cosmetics in my home or salon?

It’s not against the law to manufacture cosmetics in your home. Keep in mind, however, that it’s your responsibility to manufacture products in an environment that will not cause them to become adulterated.

Here are some of the ways in which a cosmetic can become adulterated:

  • Color additive violations: Misuse of color additives makes a product adulterated. (See examples at Import Alerts & Refusals Involving Color Additive Violations)
  • Prohibited and restricted ingredients: Violating the restrictions on the use of these substances makes a cosmetic adulterated. (See Prohibited & Restricted Ingredients in Cosmetics)
  • Packaging: The composition of its container may make the contents "injurious to health," such as a lipstick packaged in a container with lead coating.
  • Microbial contamination: Cosmetics are not required to be sterile, but microbial contamination can pose a health hazard, making a product adulterated. (See Microbiological Safety and Cosmetics)
  • Other contaminants: Unwanted substances from a number of sources may adulterate a product, such as asbestos in talc-containing cosmetics. (See Potential Contaminants in Cosmetics)
  • Any other problem that could make the product unsafe for consumers when they use it according to directions on the label, or as it is customarily used. (See the FD&C Act, Section 601)

FDA intends to conduct rulemaking as part of the implementation of MoCRA, which requires FDA to establish good manufacturing practices (GMP) that, to the extent practicable and appropriate, are consistent with national and international standards. If you manufacture homemade cosmetics or own a salon, exemption from GMP requirements may apply. For more information on GMP, please see: 

7. Can I label my cosmetics “natural” or “organic”? 

The same requirements for safety and labeling apply to all cosmetics, no matter what their source. This includes, for example, making sure that all your labeling is truthful and not misleading. 

FDA has not defined the term “natural” and has not established a regulatory definition for this term in cosmetic labeling. 

FDA also does not have regulations for the term "organic" for cosmetics. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates the use of the term “organic” for agricultural products under the National Organic Program (NOP). If you have questions about the use of the term “organic,” contact USDA. Answers to some common questions about "organic" cosmetics are available on our website under “‘Organic’ Cosmetics.” 

Don’t use terms such as “natural” as part of an ingredient statement, because ingredients must be listed by their common or usual names, without additional description. 

And remember, choosing ingredients from sources you consider “organic” or “natural” is no guarantee that they are safe. You are still responsible for making sure your ingredients are safe when used according to the labeling, or as they are customarily used, no matter what kinds of ingredients you use.

8. Must I test my products and ingredients?

In general, a manufacturer, packer or distributor whose name appears on the label of a cosmetic product is required to ensure adequate substantiation of safety of their cosmetic product and to maintain records that support substantiation. Adequate substantiation of safety means tests or studies, research, analyses, or other evidence or information that is considered, among experts qualified by scientific training and experience to evaluate the safety of cosmetic products and their ingredients, sufficient to support a reasonable certainty that a cosmetic product is safe. Animal testing is not a requirement. It’s important, however, that all data used to support the safety are derived from scientifically robust methods.

FDA does not require specific tests to demonstrate the safety of individual cosmetic products or ingredients. Nor does FDA require cosmetic companies to share their safety information with FDA prior to marketing of their products. However, if certain conditions are met, FDA can access and copy records, including safety substantiation data for cosmetic products and their ingredients. 

FDA has consistently advised manufacturers to use whatever testing is necessary to ensure the safety of their products and ingredients. Firms may substantiate safety in a number of ways. FDA has stated that "the safety of a product can be adequately substantiated through: 

  1. reliance on already available toxicological test data on individual ingredients and on product formulations that are similar in composition to the particular cosmetic, and 
  2. performance of any additional toxicological and other tests that are appropriate in light of such existing data and information." (Federal Register, March 3, 1975, page 8916).

Additionally, there are regulations that prohibit or restrict the use of several ingredients in cosmetic products. (See 21 CFR 700.11-700.35.)

For more resources on cosmetics safety substantiation, please see Product Testing of Cosmetics.

9. Using available safety data

Manufacturers can use relevant safety data that is already available to support the safety of their products.

Here are some examples:

  • Cosmetic ingredient suppliers often have safety data on their products.
  • Safety data may be published in scientific journals (sources include PubMed and ToxNet). 

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) website has information on the safety of cosmetic ingredients that they have reviewed. (CIR is an industry-funded panel of scientific and medical experts who review the safety of cosmetic ingredients. FDA participates in CIR meetings, but does not vote, and we may agree or disagree with CIR conclusions. However, we do take CIR reviews into consideration when we evaluate cosmetic ingredient safety.)

10. Doing additional testing

You may also need to do toxicological testing to fill in any gaps in the information that’s available. Toxicology or other testing methods may be necessary to determine the safety of each ingredient and the finished product. And don’t forget microbiological safety. Cosmetics do not have to be sterile, but they must not contain any harmful microorganisms, and the number of aerobic microorganisms per gram must be low. To learn more, see “Microbiological Methods for Cosmetics.”

Many factors can affect how your product may become contaminated, including use by consumers, such as dipping one’s fingers into a jar. If you do not have the technical expertise to determine the best way to ensure that your product is protected from contamination, you may want to work with a consultant.

For more resources on cosmetics safety substantiation, please see Product Testing of Cosmetics.

11. Can I use a Post Office (P.O.) box or website for the address on the label?

A post office box or website address is not adequate for this labeling requirement.

The FD&C Act requires cosmetic labels to identify the name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor. By regulation, this includes the street address, city, state, and ZIP code, although you may omit the street address if your firm is listed in a current city or telephone directory. You may use the main place of business instead of the actual place where the cosmetic was manufactured, packed, or distributed, unless such a statement would be misleading.

If you use the distributor’s address, you must use a phrase such as "Distributed by" or "Manufactured for," followed by that firm's name and place of business. The name of the firm must be the corporate name. See the regulation on name and place of business at 21 CFR 701.12.

12. Where can I learn more about labeling requirements?

Cosmetic labeling is not subject to premarket approval by FDA. It’s your responsibility to make sure your labeling meets all requirements. For specific labeling questions, please contact the FDA - CFSAN - Outreach and Information Center (salesforce-sites.com) or for specific questions regarding Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA), please contact QuestionsAboutMoCRA@fda.hhs.gov.

Here are some useful resources:

  • Cosmetic Labeling and Label Claims: An overview to help you get started
  • Cosmetic Labeling Guide: For step-by-step help that answers many common questions
  • Cosmetic Labeling Regulations: For links to the full text of the regulations that apply to cosmetic labeling

Some cosmetic labeling requirements are regulated by other federal agencies. For example, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission regulates claims of “Made in USA.” Other country of origin labeling is regulated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (see “Chapter 13-Country of Origin Marking”).

You may wish to work with a labeling consultant. FDA, as a government agency, does not provide referrals to private consultants.

13. What are the local requirements for starting a cosmetics business?

You will need to contact your state and local authorities for that information. The Small Business Administration can also help.

14. Do I need to get a license from FDA to manufacture or market cosmetics?

FDA does not license cosmetics firms. However, state or local authorities may require licensing or have other requirements you need to know about. You will need to contact your state or local authorities directly. Again, the Small Business Administration may be able to help.

15. Where can I find more information on FDA requirements I need to know about?

See “ Resources for You: Industry" for a list of resources for members of the cosmetics industry, large and small. You will find information on labeling, color additives, imports, exports, other agencies you need to know about, links to the laws and regulations, and more.

 

 

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