Cosmetics

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Definition

Cosmetics are products that are applied to the body especially face to improve the physical appearance or to cleanse the body except soaps. If a product is intended only to cleanse the body or to make a person more attractive, it’s still a cosmetic with the exception of soaps. So, if a product such as a shower gel is intended only to cleanse the body, or a perfume or cologne is intended only to make a person smell good, it’s a cosmetic.

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The FD&C Act defines cosmetics by their intended use, as "articles intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled, or sprayed on, introduced into, or otherwise applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance" (FD&C Act, sec. 201(i)). Among the products included in this definition are skin moisturizers, perfumes, lipsticks, fingernail polishes, eye and facial makeup, cleansing shampoos, permanent waves, hair colors, and deodorants, as well as any substance intended for use as a component of a cosmetic product. It does not include soap. (To learn what products are considered "soap" for regulatory purposes, see "Soap."

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But, if the product is intended for a therapeutic use, such as treating or preventing disease, or to affect the structure or function of the body, it’s a drug (FD&C Act, 201(g)), or in some cases a medical device (FD&C Act, 201(h)), even if it affects the appearance. Other “personal care products” may be regulated as dietary supplements or as consumer products.

Regulation

In the United States, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulates the cosmetics. According the FDA, the law does not require cosmetic products and ingredients, other than color additives, to have FDA approval before they go on the market, but there are laws and regulations that apply to cosmetics on the market in interstate commerce. The two most important laws pertaining to cosmetics marketed in the United States are the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA).

Types of cosmetic products

 baby products

02. Bath preparations

03. Eye makeup preparations

04. Fragrance preparations

05. Hair preparations (non-coloring)

06. Hair coloring preparations

07. Makeup preparations (not eye)

08. Manicuring preparations

09. Oral hygiene products

10. Personal cleanliness

11. Shaving preparations

12. Skin care preparations such as Creams, Lotions, Powders, and Sprays

13. Suntan preparations

 

See also


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD