What is in a label?

When you are developing labelling content you should keep the definition of a cosmetics product in mind.

Does the background contrast nicely with the written text to make it legible and easily readable? To prevent the ink from rubbing off and potentially obstruct any batch codes or any other labelling the selected material and ink needs to be compatible. Your label should also be in the official language of the destination market.

Per the Foodstuffs, Cosmetic and Disinfectants Act, 1972 (Act No. 54 of 1972) your label should have:

• The name and physical street address of the manufacturer or the distributor of the product.
• An expiry date if the minimum period of durability is less than 30 months.
• The name of the product and its nominal quantity in the container when packaged.
• List a precaution and warning statement for use.
• The product function, if it’s not already apparent from its presentation e.g. cleanser or toner.
• A batch number for traceability.
• A list of all ingredients used to compound the product in INCI nomenclature at the correct levels where required by regulatory stipulation. The correct INCI names may be obtained from the most recent version of the Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook as published by the Personal Care Products Council of America.
• If the product has been fragranced, a declaration of the fragrance allergens is required on the pack if the concentration of the allergen exceeds 0.001 percent in leave-on products and 0.01 percent in rinse-off products.

If you cannot fit all of this information onto the label for one reason or another it is advised to include an accompanying tag, information leaflet or brochure located near the product at the point of sale.

Want to learn more? E-mail Robyn on info@botanichem.co.za