Monday, August 11, 2008

Color Additives and Cosmetics

Color additives are subject to a strict system of approval under U.S. law. Except in the case of coal-tar hair dyes, failure to meet U.S. color additive requirements causes a cosmetic to be adulterated. Color additive violations are a common reason for detaining imported cosmetic products offered for entry into this country.

Some Basic RequirementsIf your product (except coal-tar hair dyes) contains a color additive, by law you must adhere to requirements for:

Approval. All color additives used in cosmetics (or any other FDA-regulated product) must be approved by FDA. There must be a regulation specifically addressing a substance's use as a color additive, specifications, and restrictions.
Certification. In addition to approval, a number of color additives must be batch certified by FDA if they are to be used in cosmetics (or any other FDA-regulated product) marketed in the U.S.
Identity and specifications. All color additives must meet the requirements for identity and specifications stated in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).
Use and restrictions. Color additives may be used only for the intended uses stated in the regulations that pertain to them. The regulations also specify other restrictions for certain colors, such as the maximum permissible concentration in the finished product.

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