Cosmetics Manufacturers, Packagers & Distributors

What the Law Says About Cosmetics: Overviews

• FDA Authority Over Cosmetics
• Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?)
• Key Legal Concepts: "Interstate Commerce," "Adulterated," and "Misbranded"

Laws and Regulations: The Authoritative Sources

• Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act)
• Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA)
• Regulations Related to Cosmetics

Quick Reference for Frequently Requested Topics

• Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
• Color Additives and Cosmetics (Overview)
• Color Additives Permitted for Use in Cosmetics (Table)
• "Cosmeceutical"
• Diethanolamine and Cosmetic Products
• 1,4-Dioxane
• Exports
• GMP Guidelines/Inspection Checklist
• Imports
• Ingredients Prohibited or Restricted by FDA Regulations
• Inspection of Cosmetics (Overview)
• Labeling and Label Claims
• Labeling Guide The "How To" guide for cosmetic labeling: Answers to your labeling questions, with examples
• Microbiological Methods for Cosmetics (from the Bacteriological Analytical Manual)
• Other Government Agencies You May Need to Know About
• Product Testing (Safety Substantiation)
• Recall Policy for Cosmetics
• Registration: The Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program
• Shelf Life-Expiration Date

Guidance Documents

• Cosmetic Labeling Manual
• Guidance for Industry: Cosmetics Processors and Transporters Cosmetics Security Preventive Measures Guidance November 2003
• Guidance for Industry: Labeling for Topically Applied Cosmetic Products Containing Alpha Hydroxy Acids as Ingredients January 10, 2005

More Resources

• Trade and Professional Associations
• Trade Publication Listings