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Skincare

Seoul’s city walls and streetscape

Reading Korea’s Cosmetics Act | The Unique Category of “Functional Cosmetics”

Korea enacted its Cosmetics Act in 1999, and it came into force in July 2000. Cosmetics were separated from the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act, and a category called “functional cosmetics” was established apart from general cosmetics, requiring review or reporting for each item. This article outlines that system.

Reading Korea’s Cosmetics Act | The Unique Category of “Functional Cosmetics”

Korea enacted its Cosmetics Act in 1999, and it came into force in July 2000. Cosmetics were separated from the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act, and a category called “functional cosmetics” was established apart from general cosmetics, requiring review or reporting for each item. This article outlines that system.

Colorful powders spilled on a white surface

How Are Ingredients Allowed in Cosmetics Decided? | Two Lists in the “Standards for Cosmetics”

Ingredients in Japanese cosmetics are determined by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare’s “Standards for Cosmetics.” There is a list of ingredients whose blending is prohibited or restricted, and a list that limits which preservatives, UV absorbers and tar colors may be used. This article explains the thinking behind the two lists.

How Are Ingredients Allowed in Cosmetics Decided? | Two Lists in the “Standards for Cosmetics”

Ingredients in Japanese cosmetics are determined by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare’s “Standards for Cosmetics.” There is a list of ingredients whose blending is prohibited or restricted, and a list that limits which preservatives, UV absorbers and tar colors may be used. This article explains the thinking behind the two lists.

The smooth texture of a cream

Microplastics in Cosmetics | Phased Regulations Set by the EU

In October 2023, the EU brought Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 into force, restricting intentionally added microplastics. For cosmetics, transition periods vary by product type, with rinse-off products covered from October 2027.

Microplastics in Cosmetics | Phased Regulations Set by the EU

In October 2023, the EU brought Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 into force, restricting intentionally added microplastics. For cosmetics, transition periods vary by product type, with rinse-off products covered from October 2027.

A small dropper bottle in the palm of a hand

Reading China’s Cosmetics Regulations | The Cosmetics Supervision and Administration Regulation (CSAR) Enforced in 2021

In China, the Cosmetics Supervision and Administration Regulation (CSAR) came into force on January 1, 2021, and cosmetics are now managed as either “special cosmetics” or “general cosmetics.” We look at the difference between registration and notification, and the categories covered, from the framework of the system.

Reading China’s Cosmetics Regulations | The Cosmetics Supervision and Administration Regulation (CSAR) Enforced in 2021

In China, the Cosmetics Supervision and Administration Regulation (CSAR) came into force on January 1, 2021, and cosmetics are now managed as either “special cosmetics” or “general cosmetics.” We look at the difference between registration and notification, and the categories covered, from the framework of the system.

Small perfume bottles in different colors

Fragrance Allergen Labeling Rules | Why the EU Added 56 Substances

In the EU, fragrances can be listed collectively, while certain fragrance allergens must be listed individually depending on their concentration. Regulation (EU) 2023/1545 added 56 substances, and shipment under the new rules is required from July 31, 2026.

Fragrance Allergen Labeling Rules | Why the EU Added 56 Substances

In the EU, fragrances can be listed collectively, while certain fragrance allergens must be listed individually depending on their concentration. Regulation (EU) 2023/1545 added 56 substances, and shipment under the new rules is required from July 31, 2026.

A white rabbit sitting in the grass

Global Rules on Cosmetics and Animal Testing | Differences Between the EU, the United States, and Japan

How animal testing for cosmetics is handled varies greatly by region. The EU completed its sales ban in 2013, the U.S. FDA states that some labeling terms have no legal definition, and Japan has developed guidance on alternative methods. We compare them using information from public agencies.

Global Rules on Cosmetics and Animal Testing | Differences Between the EU, the United States, and Japan

How animal testing for cosmetics is handled varies greatly by region. The EU completed its sales ban in 2013, the U.S. FDA states that some labeling terms have no legal definition, and Japan has developed guidance on alternative methods. We compare them using information from public agencies.