Skincare

Because they are in direct contact with the largest organ in the human body, skincare products pose a potential risk to consumer health. For this reason, their marketing is subject to strict regulations regarding quality and safety.

Potential risk:

• Allergic reactions: skincare products contain a variety of ingredients, some of which can provoke allergic reactions in predisposed individuals.
• Skin irritations: the use of products that are not suitable for a specific skin type, or are formulated with aggressive ingredients, can cause irritation, reddening, itching or burning.
• Toxicity: even minimum quantities of certain ingredients can be toxic if absorbed by the skin.
• Microbial contamination: skincare products can be contaminated by bacteria or fungi, causing skin infections.

Safety regulations:

• Regulation (EC) no. 1223/2009 on cosmetic products: governs the production, commercialisation and labelling of cosmetic products within the European Union.
• Directive 2007/53/EC on biocides: governs biocidal products, including those used to disinfect the skin.
• UNI EN ISO 22716 standards: define Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for cosmetic products.

All-round analysis:

Before being marketed, skincare products must undergo a series of tests to verify their safety and effectiveness.

• Skin-compatibility testing: assesses the potential irritating or allergic nature of the product.
• Effectiveness testing: measures the capacity of the product to obtain the results promised.
• Toxicity testing: verifies the safety of the product for human health.
• Chemical-physical analysis: assesses the quality and the composition of the product.

It is important to remember that:

• Skincare product safety is, first and foremost, the responsibility of the manufacturer.
• Consumers must carefully read labels on products before purchasing and using them.
• In the case of doubt or adverse reactions, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist.

Beyond regulations and testing, it is fundamental that consumers adopt a series of precautions to reduce the risks associated with the use of skincare products:

• Choose products that are suitable for the specific skin type.
• Carefully read the label and the ingredients.
• Do not use products with ingredients that are unknown or that raise doubts.
• Avoid products with intense fragrances or artificial colourings.
• Do not use products that have expired or that have not been stored properly.
• Only apply products to healthy and intact skin.
• In the event of adverse reactions, stop using the product and consult a dermatologist.