Cosmetics Testing Ensures Safety for the Public

March 3, 2010 - PRLog -- Drugs, medical devices and biologics are all regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before they go to market.  Cosmetics, on the other hand, are not subject to FDA premarket approval.  Cosmetic firms are responsible for substantiating the safety of their ingredients and products.

According to the FDA website, “The two most important laws pertaining to cosmetics marketed in the United States are the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA). The FD&C Act prohibits the marketing of adulterated or misbranded cosmetics in interstate commerce. Violations of the Act involving product composition--whether they result from ingredients, contaminants, processing, packaging, or shipping and handling--cause cosmetics to be adulterated and subject to regulatory action.”  The FPLA requires ingredients to be declared.

These requirements address products made in the U.S. for domestic consumption and foreign made cosmetics imported for sale in the country.  Over the past several years there have been numerous media reports of lead contamination in lipstick, fungal and bacterial infections, contaminated products, allergic reactions and potential harm from chemical components included in some cosmetics, such as formaldehyde.

EMSL Analytical, one of the nation’s largest consumer products and forensic science testing companies, provides a state-of-the-art laboratory for cosmetic manufacturers, distributors, retailers, regulators and the general public.  “EMSL Analytical can test raw materials, in-process samples and finished products for physical, chemical and bacterial quality control compliance,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President at EMSL Analytical. “EMSL can also verify components for anti-microbial and preservative effectiveness.  Our specialized staff of trained scientists can assist with any methods and product development needs that may exist.”  

EMSL has been offering laboratory testing services since its inception in 1981.  For more information on cosmetic testing services provided by EMSL please call (800) 220-3675, visit www.ConsumerProductTesting.com or email info@EMSL.com.

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About EMSL Analytical, Inc:

EMSL Analytical Inc., is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of consumer product, environmental, industrial hygiene, food and materials testing services to professionals and the general public. In addition, the company offers a large variety of air sampling equipment, sampling cassettes and monitoring equipment. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including AIHA IHLAP, AIHA EMLAP, AIHA ELLAP, A2LA, CDC Elite, CPSC(Consumer Product Safety Commission), CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Visit website for complete list.