Consumers encouraged to take caution over cosmetics and toiletries

Cosmetic procedures and products are often assumed to be safe for use, but authorities are warning consumers to be aware of the potential dangers and risks that can be associated with them.

Whilst manufacturers have a duty to ensure their products comply with relevant legislation, it doesn’t mean they always do; nor does it mean every product is safe for use by every individual.

On top of that, some people may not be aware of the risks because they fail to research products more thoroughly. Complacency is a common pitfall when people fall victim to cosmetic product problems…

Us Humans react to chemicals and substances in varying ways. With different genetics and living environments, one moisturiser could “work wonders” for one person, but it could cause an adverse reaction for another.

Regulators are aware that, with such diversity in our own make-up, cosmetic products are not always safe or effective for everyone in the market. There are also some cosmetic and personal care producers who have been outright accused of prioritising profits over the benefits of their products and its alleged effects on health.

However, this doesn’t mean they have free reign to make and sell whatever they want…

What are we talking about here?

Nowadays, cosmetic products and procedures can include an array of things, including:

Many of us are regularly applying chemicals and substances in and on our bodies – sometimes without thinking about what exactly we’re exposing ourselves to. Although cosmetics can contain substances used for various benefits, some are not even recognised as safe or effective by medical professionals, and this may present a real risk to people using them.

What about testing?

Cosmetic testing is not always a statutory demand, or perhaps not always as effective as some may assume.  Unlike drugs which are often heavily tested and regulated before being presented to the market, testing of cosmetic products and procedures is, in some cases, not even a requirement.

A former regulatory chief was quoted in a medical journal saying:

“The cosmetic industry remains largely self-regulated. History has repeatedly shown that when there is insufficient regulatory oversight, a few unscrupulous people or companies will exploit the vulnerable public for profit.”

The responsibility of ensuring products are safe can sometimes be left with the consumer who is expected to raise complaints, or use any variant of “patch testing” to assess for dangers. Whilst some companies seem to have free reign over what they create, market and sell to consumers, they still have an overall duty to ensure products are reasonably safe for their intended use. Individuals have rights under various consumer protection laws in the U.K. to seek legal compensation for injuries suffered from using a dangerous or defective product.

The message seems to be for the consumers to take care when using new cosmetic products, and ensure instructions and labels are read, and research is conducted.