Coming to the store, each of us tries to choose cosmetics according to our requirements. For some people the naturalness and safety of formulas are of utmost importance, for others the price-quality ratio is important, and some prefer to buy products that do not harm the environment and are not tested on animals.

How can you choose something that meets your requirements? The labeling of cosmetic products can help you with this.

Mandatory labeling of cosmetics

Mandatory labeling of cosmetics in Ukraine is regulated by legislative acts and regulatory documents that establish requirements for information placed on the packaging of cosmetics. This is necessary to ensure the safety of consumers and inform them about the composition, properties and conditions of use of products.

Main elements of compulsory labeling of cosmetic products

• Product Name: the name of the product should be clearly stated, allowing the consumer to understand what the product is.

• Manufacturer: the country of production and the address of the manufacturer must be indicated.

• Ingredients: a complete list of ingredients in descending order of their concentration in the product. The names must correspond to the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI).

• Date of manufacture, expiration date and lot number: there should be information on the date of manufacture, expiry date and lot number of the product.

• Product volume or weight: precise information on the amount of product in milliliters or grams.

• Storage conditions: recommendations on the storage conditions of the product, if they differ from normal storage conditions (e.g. store in a cool place, avoid direct sunlight).

• Cautions and recommendations for use: necessary for safe use of the product (e.g. avoid contact with eyes, use externally only).

• Special labeling: signs and symbols indicating certain product characteristics (e.g. EcoCert label for organic cosmetics).

Additional requirements

• Marking language: all information must be in Ukrainian. Additional information in other languages is allowed, but does not replace the mandatory marking in Ukrainian.

• Responsibility for realization: name and address of the company responsible for realization of the product on the territory of Ukraine, if different from the manufacturer (e.g. importing company).

Legislative framework

The main regulatory documents governing cosmetics labeling in Ukraine include:

• Law of Ukraine "On Protection of Consumer Rights";

• Technical regulations for cosmetic products;

• Law of Ukraine "On the State Product Control Market";

• National Standards (DSTU);

In case of violation of labeling requirements for cosmetic products in Ukraine, sanctions may be imposed on manufacturers and distributors: fines, seizure of products, ban on sale.

Packaging requirements

Requirements for cosmetic containers in Ukraine are regulated by regulatory documents that are aimed at ensuring the safety and quality of products, as well as protecting consumer rights. These requirements relate to the materials from which the container is made, its labeling, functionality and health safety.

• Materials: the container must be made of materials that are safe for health and do not react with the cosmetic product.

• Labeling: all necessary information must be placed on the container in accordance with the requirements for labeling of cosmetic products.

• Airtightness and protection: packagings shall provide airtightness and protection of the contents from external factors.

• Functionality and usability: the container should be easy to use, allowing the consumer to easily remove the required quantity and use the product without residue.

• Environmentally friendly: materials that are recyclable or biodegradable are preferred.

• Testing and quality control: must undergo mandatory testing for compatibility with the cosmetic product and compliance with established standards.

What cosmetics are subject to labeling?

In Ukraine, all cosmetic products manufactured, imported and sold in the country are subject to labeling. Mandatory labeling includes requirements for information placed on packaging to ensure consumer safety and inform consumers about product characteristics.

What badges should be on cosmetics?

Cosmetic product packaging may contain icons and symbols that provide information about the product and help consumers understand the product's proper use, properties, composition and compliance with certain standards. Here are the most common icons that can be found on cosmetics:

• PAO (Period After Opening): indicates the shelf life of the product after opening.

• "e": indicates compliance with European standards for the amount of product in the package.

• "Recycling": indicates that the packaging is recyclable.

• "Green Dot: means that the manufacturer participates in a packaging recycling program.

• "Cruelty-Free" or "Hare with Ears" - the product has not been tested on animals.

• Eco-certifications: EcoCert, COSMOS, USDA Organic, which certify that the product meets the standards of organic or eco-friendly cosmetics.

• "Hypoallergenic": the product has been tested and has minimal risk of causing an allergic reaction.

• Additional badges include Paraben Free, Sulfate Free, Vegan, Non-GMO.

Eco-labeling of cosmetics

Eco-labeling of cosmetics is designed to inform consumers that the product has been produced in compliance with environmental standards and does not contain harmful chemicals. This helps consumers make an informed choice in favor of more environmentally friendly and healthier products.

Main eco-labels

• ECOCERT: One of the best known certifications for organic cosmetics. Products with this label contain a certain percentage of natural and organic ingredients and meet strict environmental standards.

• COSMOS: International standard for organic and natural cosmetics developed by several organizations including ECOCERT.

• USDA Organic: A certification from the United States Department of Agriculture stating that the product contains a minimum of 95% organic ingredients.

• NATRUE: European certification for natural and organic cosmetics.

• Vegan Society: A certificate stating that the product does not contain ingredients of animal origin and has not been tested on animals.

• Cruelty-Free (Leaping Bunny): An international certificate confirming that the product has not been tested on animals at any stage of production.

Each certificate sets its own requirements for the content of natural and organic ingredients.

Eco-certified products must be free of parabens, synthetic colors and flavors, mineral oils, GMOs and other harmful substances, use environmentally friendly manufacturing methods, and be packaged in materials that are recyclable or biodegradable.

How do you label cosmetics?

Proper labeling ensures consumer awareness and promotes consumer confidence in the products. The following steps outline the steps that will help you make the correct labeling on cosmetics:

• Examine the legal requirements;

• Identify the information you need;

• Make sure that the packaging will have all the mandatory information: product name, manufacturer's name and address, country, composition (Ingredients), etc.

• Develop a label design and make sure it is compliant and includes all the necessary elements;

• Use the correct symbols and signs;

• Coordinate the design with legal and regulatory professionals;

• Order label printing from a trusted manufacturer who can ensure quality and compliance.

Milliform provides services for the design of containers and components based on your layout. We offer design and manufacture of individual containers, engraving and other design elements.

Qualified managers will not only advise on the possibilities of individual order, but also accompanying the entire production process, will help in the shortest possible time to produce a product that meets all requirements.