Cosmetic Safety

Cosmetic safety, advertising, labelling, ingredients and regulation, report an incident, read about cosmetic products.

Services and information

What is a cosmetic?

A "cosmetic" is any substance used to clean, improve or change the complexion, skin, hair, nails or teeth.

Report a cosmetic incident or adverse reaction

Report a health or safety related issue with a cosmetic to Health Canada.

Use cosmetics safely

Every day, most of us use products like skin cream, aftershave lotion and baby shampoo. Most cosmetics are safe, but they can sometimes cause health problems.

Advertising, labelling and ingredients

Claims on a label or in an ad for what a cosmetic can do must be accurate so they do not mislead people.

Internet myths and rumours

Incorrect information can be dangerous, so it is important to determine if the information you have is factual and reliable.

Black henna temporary tattoos

Black henna temporary tattoos are often sold and applied by artisans at markets, fairs and amusement parks in Canada, as well as holiday or foreign travel destinations.

Eye cosmetics

Eye cosmetics must meet the same safety and clean manufacturing requirements as other cosmetics. However, part of the responsibility for cosmetics safety belongs to you, the individual consumer.

Hair dyes

Health Canada's review of current scientific data shows there is no hazard associated with the proper use of hair dyes.

Lead in traditional kohl

Kohl (also known as: kajal, surma, al-kahl/al-kohl) is a traditional eye cosmetic of Middle Eastern, Asian and North African societies.

Tanning products

Canadians use many different types of tanning products. Some are used to prevent tans and sunburns. Others are used to help create or fake a tan.

Triclosan

Learn about triclosan, use restrictions, health and environmental risks and safety tips.

Subscribe to Cosmetics updates

Join the Cosmetics email list to receive the latest news and information about Health Canada's work in the area of cosmetics and personal care products.

Recalls and safety alerts

Search the latest recalls and safety alerts for consumer products.

Contributors

Health Canada

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Date modified:: 2023-12-04

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Cosmetic Safety

What is a cosmetic?

Report a cosmetic incident or adverse reaction

Use cosmetics safely

Advertising, labelling and ingredients

Internet myths and rumours

Black henna temporary tattoos

Eye cosmetics

Hair dyes

Lead in traditional kohl

Tanning products

Triclosan

Subscribe to Cosmetics updates

Recalls and safety alerts

Regulatory information

Notification of cosmetics

Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist

Labelling

International Cooperation

Animal testing ban on cosmetics

Cosmetic-Drug Interface

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