Cosmetics

Most health products and cosmetics are safe when used appropriately. But where evidence shows a risk of serious injury or illness related to certain health products and cosmetics, these must meet compulsory safety requirements known as mandatory safety standards. In some cases, unsafe health products or cosmetics are banned from supply in Australia.

The ACCC has a mandatory standard related to the ingredients labelling of cosmetics and toiletries.

Regulators

While the ACCC covers general consumer products, you may also obtain safety information from other authorities with a role in monitoring safety, providing advice and handling complaints about cosmetics.  

• The National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS)—industrial chemicals used in manufacturing, products, building and construction and for chemicals in cosmetics. NICNAS prohibits or restricts harmful use of chemicals in these products through:
  •  Cosmetics guidelines
  •  the Australian Inventory of Chemical Substances (AICS), administered by NICNAS. 
• The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for therapeutic goods and medicines.

A voluntary scheme has also been initiated by the Advocate for the Consumer, Cosmetic, Hygiene and Speciality Products Industry (ACCORD).