Cosmetic products
The term 'cosmetic product' means any substance or mixture intended to be placed in contact with the external parts of the human body (epidermis, hair system, nails, lips and external genital organs), or the teeth and the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, for the sole or main purpose of cleaning them, perfuming them, changing their appearance, protecting them, keeping them in good condition, or correcting body odours.
Products containing substances or preparations intended to be ingested, inhaled, injected or implanted in the human body are not considered to be cosmetic products.
Safety of cosmetic products
All cosmetic products that are made available to European consumers must be safe to human health when used in accordance with the instructions provided on the label. In this regard, a 'responsible person', who is based in the European Community and named on the packaging, ensures compliance with the applicable legislation.
Ban on animal testing
In the European Union, it is forbidden to test finished cosmetic products and cosmetic ingredients on animals. It is also prohibited to market finished cosmetic products and ingredients that have been tested on animals.
Market monitoring by the authorities
In Luxembourg, the Division of Pharmacy and Medicines (Division de la pharmacie et des médicaments) of the Health Directorate within the Ministry of Health and Social Security is responsible for all matters relating to cosmetic products in general, and in particular the manufacture, control, marketing, advertising, distribution, import and export of cosmetic products.
Checks on cosmetic products and economic operators are carried out using the product information file, checks on retailers (online or offline), laboratory tests and compliance with good manufacturing practices.
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