Cosmetics Science & Research
FDA scientists conduct cosmetic safety research and stay abreast of research by scientists elsewhere, because any action FDA takes on cosmetic safety must be based on reliable information.
Under U.S. law, cosmetic products and ingredients do not need FDA approval before they go on the market. The one exception is color additives (other than coloring materials used in coal-tar hair dyes), which must be approved for their intended use. Companies and individuals who market cosmetics have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of their products. In order to take action for safety reasons against a cosmetic on the market, we need reliable information showing that it is unsafe when consumers use it according to the directions in the labeling or in the customary or expected way.
In this section, you will find:
- Product Testing of Cosmetics: At-a-glance information on cosmetic testing, for consumers and industry
- Microbiological Safety and Cosmetics: Information for consumers and industry, with links to more resources
- Cosmetics Nanotechnology: Links to information and resources for consumers and industry
- Cosmetics Research Projects: An overview of FDA research related to cosmetic safety
Resources on FDA Science & Research Related to Cosmetics
- Report on the Use of PFAS in Cosmetic Products and Associated Risks (December 2025)
- Limiting Lead in Lipstick and Other Cosmetics
- FDA's Testing Method for Lead in Lipstick
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids: Guidance: Labeling for Cosmetics Containing Alpha Hydroxy Acids
- Color Additives: The Chemistry of Color Additives
- Lipstick and Lead: Questions and Answers
- FDA's Testing Method for Lead in Lipstick
- FDA's Testing of Cosmetics for Arsenic, Cadmium, Chromium, Cobalt, Lead, Mercury, and Nickel Content
- Nanotechnology: Guidance for Industry: Safety of Nanomaterials in Cosmetic Products
- Application of Nanotechnology to Cosmetics and Foods: Webinar
- Potential Contaminants in Cosmetics
- Phthalates in Cosmetics
- Talc in Cosmetics
- Tattoos and Permanent Makeup: Marketplace and Chemistry
Resources For You
- Guidance for Industry: Insanitary Conditions in the Preparation, Packing, and Holding of Tattoo Inks and the Risk of Microbial Contamination | FDA (October 2024)
- Draft Guidance for Industry: Lead in Cosmetic Lip Products and Externally Applied Cosmetics: Recommended Maximum Level (December 2016)
- Guidance for Industry: Safety of Nanomaterials in Cosmetic Products (June 2014)
- Guidance for Industry: Labeling for Cosmetics Containing Alpha Hydroxy Acids (January 2005)Follow FDA Cosmetics on X (formerly Twitter)
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