Cosmetics Labeling

What should a cosmetics label include?

Several legal acts concerning cosmetic products are in force under Polish and European law. When it comes to information placed on cosmetics labels, the most important document is the Act of 4 October 2018 on Cosmetic Products. Under its provisions, packaging of cosmetic products placed on the market in Poland should include data on the composition, intended use, storage conditions, and application of the given cosmetic product. The information in question is listed below.

1. Details of the responsible entity: registered company name or the full name and address of the responsible person.
2. Best-before date: the date up to which the cosmetic product retains its original properties, provided it is stored under appropriate conditions.
3. Nominal quantity of the cosmetic (weight or volume) at the time of packaging.
4. Special precautions, along with their description, that should be observed when using the given cosmetic product.
5. Product identification data: batch number or other markings enabling identification of the given cosmetic.
6. Function of the cosmetic product: a name indicating the intended area of use of the cosmetic.
7. List of ingredients.

It should be emphasized that the ingredients listed on cosmetics labels cannot be presented in any arbitrary order. A descending order applies, meaning that names in accordance with the INCI (International Nomenclature of Chemical Ingredients) nomenclature must be listed from the highest to the lowest content, while ingredients with a concentration equal to or below 1% of the total product volume may be listed in any order. The list of ingredients should also specify potential allergens.

In addition to the information listed above, if the product is intended for repeated use, the cosmetic product label should include the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol, i.e. a pictogram showing an open jar, indicating the period after opening during which proper microbiological purity and stability of all the cosmetic’s ingredients are guaranteed. If necessary, the label should also include special warnings, e.g. a pictogram indicating a flammable product.

Cosmetics also carry numerous pieces of optional information. The most commonly included are a statement (in words or graphic form) indicating that the product has not been tested on animals, a pictogram certifying natural or organic origin, an indication of the packaging material, and a marking indicating specific properties of the cosmetic.

Why is it important to label cosmetics accurately?

Before a cosmetic product can be placed on the market, it must undergo specific tests proving that it is safe. However, it should be kept in mind that not every cosmetic is suitable for every person. Bearing this in mind, it is easy to conclude that accurate labeling of cosmetics, in compliance with applicable regulations, is of particular importance. The information provided on the label allows consumers to make an informed decision and, thanks to this, take better care of their health. Moreover, not everyone is aware of the rules related to the safe use and proper storage of this type of product. It is the manufacturer’s/distributor’s responsibility to draw customers’ attention to these extremely important issues.

Which devices should be chosen for labeling cosmetics?

The label should be applied to the packaging in a permanent manner, meaning it cannot be removed without damage. It must also be placed in a visible location. Manual labeling conditions are prone to errors. Fortunately, this is where industrial labeling machines come to the rescue, i.e. machines for applying labels under mass production conditions. Given that cosmetics are most often packaged in jars, bottles, tubes, and vials, the devices most useful in the cosmetics industry are those designed to work with cylindrical, oval, and flattened packaging: jar labeling machine and the exceptionally versatile bottle labeling machine.

Why is it worth choosing our solutions for cosmetics labeling?

In serial production, what matters most are individual solutions tailored to the specific operating conditions of each facility. Thanks to 30 years of experience in manufacturing labeling machines, we are able to design labeling machines that meet even the most stringent customer requirements. Our top priority has always been the highest quality, which translates into reliability. We offer all our customers comprehensive support, not only during the warranty period, but also after it expires.