11 July is a big day for the beauty industry. New EU law means that legislation on labelling, safety and advertising on beauty products will come into effect across Europe. So - what's going to change?
Consumer safety is at the forefront of the legislation. A "good manufacturing practice" and a focus on counterfeiting have been included, as well renewed laws on labelling ingredients. There will also be a "glossary of common ingredient names" and "a cosmetic product safety report" within the product information, to ensure consumers know exactly what is in the makeup they're buying.
Perhaps the most significant change is the inclusion of contact details of "responsible persons" on product labels. Only products with an associated "responsible person" will be allowed to go on sale. (This governing body will ensure that the product complies with the new rules). Doesn't that sound a little extreme? According to the report, it's necessary to benefit the consumer. This rule will "ensure the functioning of the internal market and a high level of protection of human health".
As for advertising, consumers will be pleased to hear that the rules have got tougher. The report highlights "truthfulness", "honesty and "Informed decision making", as essential components of a product's packaging.
Does that mean we can wave goodbye to claims that just don't deliver? Fingers crossed. Although there have already been some important changes within the beauty industry (all animal test products were banned earlier this year), it sounds like these strict laws are about to change things for the better. A long list of ingredients we've never heard of before might not make a big difference to your daily makeup regime, but at least we can open a new pot of moisturiser feeling a bit more confident about what we're using.