Introduction
When it comes to cosmetics the internet is full of false and misleading information. Without proper reliable sources it becomes impossible to fact check. We need reliable information to ensure consumer safety. When I first stated out formulating coming from a non scientific background initially I had no idea where to go to get my information, or what databases I could use to access specialist and scientific data. This is what prompted me to write this blog.
1) Ingredient SDS (Safety Data Sheets)
Whenever you buy a cosmetic ingredient ensure that you are able to access an SDS. A big tell telling sign of a reputable supplier is them having a SDS to give you with each ingredient. Without an SDS you cannot be sure of the ingredient you are using it could literally be anything. Be particularly wary of suppliers offering considerably lower prices, they are most likely diluted with a cheaper substance that is potentially dangerous. On the SDS you can find information relating to handling, toxicology, solubility, biodegradability, ph and usage rates. Use this information to ensure you are using ingredients according to manufacturer instructions.
2) CoSing
CoSing is the European Commissions database containing information on cosmetic ingredients, including their INCI names and functions. It is important to understand what ingredients you are working with and the function they perform in cosmetic formulas. Doing these background checks will save you time and the materials in the formulation lab.
3) Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS)
This is another excellent resource brought to us by the European Commission. This committee is comprised of a team of scientific experts who are tasked with providing research and reports on cosmetic ingredients. With constant scares of certain ingredients in cosmetics being carcinogenic and a detriment to our health, read for yourself the truth on ingredients often blasted on the internet. You may still decide you want to avoid certain ingredients, but ensure you are always doing your own research so you can make an informed choice.
This can be accessed through Cosing database, when you search an ingredient at the bottom there should be SCCS opinion, if it does not have an SCCS opinion it generally means there is no cause for concern. However do your due diligence and check the other sources provided here, as they may have additional data.
4) CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review)
The CIR is an independent committee comprised of 7 members including a toxicologist and dermatologist. It was established in 1976 by the industry trade association (then the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association, now the Personal Care Products Council), with the support of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Consumer Federation of America. (Cosmetic Ingredient Review, 2016).
Similar to the SCCS it contain research and reports on cosmetic ingredients. From these reports we can determine the safety of a specific ingredient, and the recommended usage rates. These reports inform policy makers on restricting legal usage amounts of certain ingredients.
5) TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration)
The TGA is Australia government authority responsible for evaluating, assessing and monitoring products that are defined as therapeutic goods. They regulate medicines, medical devices and biologicals to help Australians stay healthy and safe. (Commonwealth Of Australia, 2023)
NOTE: When searching these databases broaden your search to improve search results
Conclusion
These are some fantastic resources scientifically backed and used by EU, US and Australian governments to inform regulation on cosmetics. They are probably the most reliable sources of information you will find on the internet and if you have any concerns about an ingredient I strongly recommend you use these databases for your research. Just read the conclusions and abstracts of these reports if you want to save time, but if you would like to understand how they arrive at their conclusions do take the time to read the reports.
References
Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. (2023). Therapeutic Goods Administration. Date Accessed [13/11/2023]. Available at: https://www.tga.gov.au
Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2016). About the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Date Accessed [13/11/2023]. Available at: https://www.cir-safety.org/about
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