The global beauty industry is undergoing a transformation as consumers increasingly demand products that demonstrate transparency, ethical sourcing, and ingredient purity...
FDA Science and Research on Cosmetics
2025-10-20
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (Scientists at the FDA conduct cosmetic safety research and monitor the research findings of scientists at other agencies because any action the FDA takes regarding cosmetic safety must be based on reliable information.
Under U.S. law, cosmetics and their ingredients generally do not need to be licensed before they can be marketed.FDA approval. The only exception is color additives (except for coloring materials used in coal tar hair dyes), which must be approved for their intended use. Companies and individuals who sell cosmetics have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of their products. To take safety measures for cosmetics on the market, we need reliable information that shows that the product is unsafe when consumers use it according to label instructions or in the customary or intended manner.
Important: Please note that in this articleabout"Cosmetic products and ingredients do not need FDA approval before they go on the market.This information is no longer applicable due to2024 Year7 moon1 From now on,FDAStart executionMoCRARequired cosmetics "facility registration" and "product listing" requirements.
In this section you will find:
• Product Testing: Overview of cosmetics testing for consumers and industry
• Microbiological Safety of Cosmetics: Information for Consumers and Industry with Links to Further Resources
• Nanotechnology: Information and links to resources for consumers and industry
• Research Projects: Overview of FDA research related to cosmetic safety
Cosmetics relatedFDA Science and Research Resources
• Alpha Hydroxy Acids: Guide: Labeling of cosmetic products containing alpha hydroxy acids
• Coloring additives: Chemical properties of coloring additivesExternal Link Disclaimer
• Lipstick and Lead: Q&A
• FDA's lead testing method for lipstickExternal Link Disclaimer
• FDA testing for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, lead, mercury, and nickel in cosmetics
• Nanotechnology: Guidance for Industry: Safety of Nanomaterials in Cosmetics
• Nanotechnology in Cosmetics and Food: WebinarExternal Link Disclaimer
• Potential contaminants
• Phthalates
• Talc in cosmetics
• Tattoos and Permanent Makeup: Markets and Chemistry