The Rules Governing Cosmetic Products in the European Union

These national cosmetic regulations were set out to enable the free circulation of cosmetic products within the community. The principles laid down in the Cosmetics Directive take into account the needs of the consumer while encouraging commercial exchange and eliminating barriers to trade.

---

In the early 1970's, the Member States of the EU decided to harmonize their national cosmetic regulations in order to enable the free circulation of cosmetic products within the community. As a result of numerous discussions between experts from all member states, Council Directive 76/768/EEc was adopted. The principles laid down in the Cosmetics Directive take into account the needs of the consumer while encouraging commercial exchange and eliminating barriers to trade. For example, if a product is to move freely within the EU, the same labelling, packaging and safety regulations must apply.