The preservatives These are ingredients that are added to the cosmetics, the personal care products, the pharmaceuticals and the food to ensure that they do not deteriorate whilst in use by consumers. In other words, their main purpose is to extend the lifespan of these products.
In the context of food, preservatives fall into the category of food additives, where you can also find the antioxidants -which prevent the fat from reacting with oxygen and causing discolouration or rancidity-, the colourings -which enhance, restore or add colour—the emulsifiers, stabilisers y gelling agents -who mix the ingredients- and the sweeteners -to sweeten food.
The Regulation (EU) No 1129/2011 The Commission’s regulation sets out a list of permitted food additives within the European Union. In the case of the cosmetics sector, are governed by Annex V of the Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on Cosmetic Products. In any case, these are complex documents, intended primarily for technical use, and are often difficult for the general public to consult.
For this reason, the European Commission has recently set up a infographic A very straightforward guide to preservatives, their use and the EU’s measures regarding them. We believe you may find this guide very interesting, as it provides a simple overview of how these ingredients work.
The chart also provides information on the safety measures provided for by the single market, to ensure that consumers are effectively protected. Furthermore, the infographic «Preservatives in the EU» highlights the European Commission’s commitment to scientific research and innovation. You can view the full infographic.
General and technical questions (FAQ) about preservatives in cosmetics
In parallel with this EU initiative, a document containing frequently asked questions from members of the public and industry professionals regarding preservatives in cosmetic products was published last May. This document was drawn up by the Working Group on Cosmetic Preservation, which forms part of the International Cooperation on Cosmetics Regulation (ICCR). The ICCR is a voluntary international body comprising regulatory authorities from Brazil, Canada, the EU, Japan and the US.
The AEMPS website reproduces the full text of this Q&A document for members of the public and professionals.