IConsumers are becoming more and more concerned about the safety of the cosmetic products they are using. Fears of allergies and dermatitis caused by tainted or poisoned cosmetics have been ever-present in recent years. Certain ingredients used in cosmetics, such as fragrances and preservatives, can trigger an allergic reaction. Obviously, these ingredients play a pivotal role in the cosmetic products of our choice and correct dosing of these substances therefore is of key importance to avoid irritation of the skin through over-exposure. Examples of over-exposure to preservatives have frequently been observed in several historic cases, one example being beauty creams that contained mercury. Beauty creams occasionally were reported to contain excess amounts of mercury, with poisoned consumers exhibiting clear toxic neurological symptoms..
The introduction of ISO 22716 marks a major step in the realisation of a globally recognised standard for cosmetic products safety. This standard was prepared by ISO Technical Committee (TC) 217 Working Group (WG) 6 between 2002 and 2006. The final document was published in November 2007.
Benefits
Integrates the typical requirements for product and process quality Good Manufacturing Practices requirements with other Quality guidance, for example as laid down in the prerequisites for ISO 9001;
Allows for easy implementation in organisations of all sizes and levels of complexity;
Forms an internationally accepted basis for quality and safety compliance in the cosmetic products supply chain;
Fosters legal compliance as adopted by regulators around the world; and
Controls and reduces cosmetic products hazards and promotes continuous improvement throughout the supply chain.