Cosmetics labelling

When it comes to labelling cosmetics, a fundamental distinction is made between mandatory labelling, voluntary information and advertising claims.

Mandatory labelling for cosmetics includes the following:

• Names of the ingredients, including their INCI declaration
• Name or company and address of the responsible person
• Country of origin in case of cosmetics imported into the EU
• Nominal content
• Date of minimum durability or durability after opening
• Particular precautions for use
• Batch number
• Product function

The list of ingredients must be preceded by the term “Ingredients”. The ingredients must be listed by their INCI names (also known as an INCI declaration or INCI nomenclature; INCI stands for “International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients”). They are to be listed in descending order of weight at the time the cosmetic product was manufactured. Ingredients in concentrations of less than 1% may be listed in any order following those in concentrations of more than 1%. Ingredients present in the form of nanomaterials must be labelled with the word “nano” in brackets (e.g. titanium dioxide (nano)…). Regulation 1223/2009 makes provisions for certain special situations with regard to labelling, i.e. in connection with very small packages or free samples.