French ANSM has published it on 16 April 2013. This document is especially designed to the future professionals of the cosmetic chain who want to know the basics of the regulation on the placing such products on the market. It will be updated in July 2013 to introduce the new provisions in view of the application of the Regulation (EC) nbr 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the European Council, dated 30 November 2009, on cosmetic products.
1. What is a cosmetic product?
The L.5131-1 Article of the French Code of Public Health (CSP) states that cosmetic product means "any substance or mixture intended to be placed in contact with the external parts of the human body (epidermis, hair system, nails, lips and external genital organs) or with the teeth and the mucous membranes of the oral cavity with a view exclusively or mainly to cleaning them, perfuming them, changing their appearance, protecting them, keeping them in good condition or correcting body odors."
A cosmetic product cannot be presented for treating or preventing human disease, the product being, then, a medicine after the term of the L.5111-1 of the CSP. Therefore, it is the duty of manufacturers, importers or responsible for the placing on the market to check the claims related to their products.
Products designed to be swallowed, inhaled, injected or implanted in the body are not cosmetic products, even if they claim an effect, for instance, to the skin, teeth, buccal mucosa and/or skin appendages (hair, nails).
2. Are cosmetic products regulated?
Yes, the placing of cosmetic products on the market is regulated. Though the cosmetic products are not subject to an authorization prior to …
