Free-From Claims in Cosmetics: What You Need to Know

When choosing a cosmetic product, consumers often look for “free-from” claims, such as “free from parabens” or “free from sulfates.” However, the European Regulation (EU) No. 655/2013 establishes clear criteria for the justification and communication of cosmetic claims, ensuring they are truthful, substantiated, and not misleading.

Understanding the Regulation

Regulation (EU) No. 655/2013 lays down common criteria for cosmetic claims, including compliance with legal requirements, truthfulness, evidential support, honesty, fairness, and informed decision-making. This means that “free-from” claims must not create a negative perception of legally approved ingredients or mislead consumers about the safety of a product.

Let’s look at some examples!

• "Free from parabens" – This claim implies that parabens are unsafe, which is not supported by scientific evidence. They are also permitted, at specific concentrations described in the European Regulation nº 1223/2009, so this claim must be discouraged.

• "Free from perfume" – Acceptable if the product is genuinely free from any added fragrance, including natural or synthetic perfumes, or ingredients with fragrance properties.

• "Free from acetone" – Acceptable if it allows the consumer to make an informed decision, for example in the case of nail products.

Best Practices for Compliance

To ensure compliance, cosmetic brands should:

1. Avoid misleading or fear-based claims.

2. Ensure that claims align with Regulation (EU) No. 655/2013.

3. Support claims with scientific evidence where necessary.

4. Focus on transparent and responsible communication with consumers.

By following these guidelines, brands can build trust with consumers while ensuring compliance with European cosmetic regulations. For more insights and regulatory guidance, contact our experts at Pharmilab!