California Safe Cosmetics Program
The primary purpose of the California Safe Cosmetics Program is to collect information on hazardous and potentially hazardous ingredients in cosmetic products sold in California and to make this information available to the public.
Background
Many different chemicals are used in making cosmetics. Consumer and worker advocacy groups are concerned because some cosmetic products contain chemicals known or suspected to cause cancer, birth defects, or damage to the reproductive system. Those who work with cosmetics - including barbers, hair stylists, skin care, body care and nail salon workers - may be more vulnerable to the adverse health effects posed by these products because they handle greater quantities of cosmetics with greater frequency.
The Law
The California Safe Cosmetics Act (PDF)
(“the Act”) was signed into law in 2005. For all cosmetic products sold in California, the Act requires the manufacturer, packer, and/or distributor named on the product label to provide to the California Safe Cosmetics Program in the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) a list of all cosmetic products that contain any ingredients known or suspected to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Program Activities