Ever wondered about the labels on your face cream jars, lipstick tubes, mascaras, eyeshadow palettes, or shampoo bottles? Do you check this information before use? I suggest you do. Labels are a treasure trove of truth for consumers. Here's why it's crucial:
Just as what you put in your body matters, what you put on it does too. Your skin, being your largest organ, deserves respect and careful attention. Cosmetic producers must follow strict regulations to ensure product safety, which varies from country to country.
Let's delve into the most common information found on cosmetic products.
The Open Jar Symbol
Have you seen this symbol with a number inside? It indicates the 'Period After Opening' (PAO), showing how many months the product remains safe and effective after being opened. Here's why this is important:
- Contamination: Oxygen, pollutants, or microbes from the air or our fingers when applying the product can degrade it.
- Degradation: Ingredients might oxidize or break down, affecting efficacy or causing skin reactions.
- Changes: The product's texture, color, or scent might alter, signaling it's no longer suitable for use.
Especially with natural products, check this label carefully!
Now, let's explore other symbols you might encounter.
Expiry Dates (Hourglass Symbol)
Some products with a shorter shelf life might not need a PAO symbol but will have just an expiry date. This date tells you when the product should no longer be used, for the same reasons mentioned under PAO.
Batch Codes
A series of numbers and/or letters, batch codes are crucial for tracking manufacturing details. If there's ever an issue with a product, the batch code helps in identifying and recalling specific batches.
Ingredients List
By law, ingredients must be listed using the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI). They're listed in descending order of concentration, down to 1%, after which they can be combined into a 'parfum' or 'fragrance' category. Knowing what's in your product can help avoid allergens or unwanted ingredients.
Recycling Symbols (Mobius Loop)
The triangle made of arrows shows how the packaging can be recycled. Always check with your local recycling center for specifics.
Open Book Symbol
This symbol suggests that there's additional information available, often in a booklet or leaflet inside the packaging. This is especially common with smaller products where space on the label is limited.
Why This Matters
Here's why understanding these symbols is beneficial:
- Protects Your Health: Avoids using contaminated or degraded products that could harm your skin or health.
- Enhances Product Use: Helps in using products at their peak performance, ensuring you get the best results from your skincare routine.
- Environmental Responsibility: Encourages proper disposal and recycling of packaging, reducing your environmental footprint.
Practical Tips:
To make the most of this knowledge, here are some practical tips:
- Write it down: Remember when you buy and start using your product or mark the date on the bottle.
- Store Wisely: Keep cosmetics in cool, dry places.
- Check Before Purchase: Look for these symbols even before buying to ensure you're not purchasing something near its expiry.
- Patch Test New Products: Even if you know all the ingredients, your skin might react unexpectedly. Apply a small amount on a less visible area (like the inside of your wrist) and wait 24-48 hours to check for any adverse reactions.
- Check for Allergens: Especially in the EU, there's a list of common allergens that must be highlighted. If you're allergic to any of these, this can be a lifesaver.
- Decipher Ingredient Names: INCI names might not be recognizable. There are apps and websites where you can type in an INCI name to get the common name of the ingredient. This can help demystify what's in your product.
- Expiration Isn't Everything: Even if a product isn't past its expiry or PAO, changes in smell, texture, or color can signal it's time to toss it.
Final Thoughts
Next time you reach for that moisturizer or eyeshadow, take a moment to read the label. It's not just about following the rules; it's about making informed choices for your skin and health. Remember, the information on your cosmetic products isn't just regulatory text; it's your guide to beauty and safety.
References:
- REGULATION (EC) No 1223/2009 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT
- Cosmetics Europe - The Personal Care Association :: Understanding the Label
- Cosmetic Products Group Standard 2020 (NZ regulation)