COSMETIC CLAIMS

Claim substantiation is an essential aspect of the cosmetics industry in Europe. All cosmetic products marketed in the European Union (EU) must comply with the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, which sets out specific requirements for the safety and efficacy of cosmetic products, including the substantiation of claims.

Cosmetic claims can be made on the labeling, packaging, advertising, or marketing materials of a product, and they can include statements related to the product’s performance, benefits, or properties. These claims must be substantiated by appropriate and verifiable scientific evidence.

The type and level of evidence required to substantiate a cosmetic claim depend on the claim’s nature, the intended use of the product, and the target consumer group.

There are several sources of literature and guidance available on the matter. The following 3 are the most relevant when it comes to claims substantiation in the EU:

1. EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 – This is the official text of the regulation, which sets out the legal requirements for cosmetic products marketed in the EU. You should check article 20 – product claims
2. Commission Regulation (EU) No 655/2013 of 10 July 2013 laying down common criteria for the justification of claims used in relation to cosmetic products
3. Technical document on cosmetic claims (version of 03 July 2017)