Cosmetic labels – what should they contain?

Labels for the cosmetics industry serve many more functions than just an aesthetic one. On the one hand, they are carriers of mandatory information required by law; on the other, they support sales, build brand recognition, and help consumers quickly identify a product on the shelf. In the case of cosmetics, a label must therefore combine readability, durability, and compliance with regulations.

The most important information on a cosmetic product label

In the European Union, the rules for cosmetic labeling are primarily defined by Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009, and in Poland they are supplemented by the Act of 4 October 2018 on cosmetic products. The regulation applies directly in all EU Member States, while national provisions clarify selected issues, including those related to market surveillance.

The information required by Article 19 of the Regulation must appear on the cosmetic label or its packaging. This includes, above all: the name or business name and address of the responsible person, the country of origin – but only if the cosmetic is imported from outside the EU, the nominal content, the date of minimum durability or PAO (depending on the product’s durability), the batch number, particular precautions for use, the function of the product if it is not clear from its presentation, and the list of ingredients preceded by the word “Ingredients.” For labels in the cosmetics industry, this means the print area must be designed very carefully so that all data are legible, durable, and properly arranged.

It is worth clarifying that the regulations do not simply refer to the “manufacturer’s details,” but to the responsible person. This may be the manufacturer, the importer, or another entity designated in accordance with the law. From the perspective of label design, this is important because this entity’s details are one of the basic elements of labeling.

Product function and the name of the cosmetic

In practice, cosmetic labels very often include the trade name of the product, but the name alone is not always sufficient. If it is not clear from the product’s presentation what it is, the label must indicate its function, for example: “shampoo,” “moisturizing cream,” “body lotion,” or “shower gel.” This is important not only from the perspective of compliance, but also for consumer convenience, as purchase decisions are often made very quickly.

INCI composition on a cosmetic label

One of the most important elements of a cosmetic label is the INCI ingredient list. Ingredients should be listed in descending order of weight at the time they are added to the product. Ingredients present at concentrations below 1% may be listed later in any order. The list should be preceded by the word “Ingredients,” and the nomenclature must comply with the accepted rules for ingredient identification. For the manufacturer, this means ensuring not only formal correctness, but also an appropriate print size and legibility on the label.

Expiry date or PAO symbol?

A common question on cosmetic labels is whether the date of minimum durability or the PAO symbol should be provided. The rule is that the date of minimum durability is mandatory for products with a durability of up to 30 months. If the cosmetic remains stable for more than 30 months, PAO – that is, the period of safe use after opening – is generally indicated instead, provided that such information is relevant for the product. A well-designed label should allow space for these markings already at the design stage.

Warnings and precautions

Labels in the cosmetics industry should also include particular precautions for use if they are required for a given product or result from its composition. This does not mean, however, that every cosmetic must carry the same warning. Statements such as “keep out of reach of children” appear only when required for a given type of product or specific substances. This is important from the point of view of label design: warnings should not be treated as a fixed, universal element for all cosmetics.

Cosmetic labels and small packaging

The cosmetics industry very often uses small packaging: miniatures, samples, ampoules, or small bottles. However, such a format does not exempt the product from the obligation to provide the required information. If the full labeling does not fit on a standard label, regulations allow for the use of additional solutions such as a multi-layer label, tape, tag, card, or leaflet attached to the product. This is precisely why peel-off labels and multi-page constructions work so well in cosmetics – they make it possible to reconcile limited space with legal requirements.

Additional information on a cosmetic label

In addition to mandatory data, labels for the cosmetics industry may also include extra information such as instructions for use, storage conditions, recycling markings, or a QR code leading to more extensive product information. Marketing claims also often appear on labels, for example “natural,” “organic,” or free from statements. Such claims are permitted, but they must not mislead the consumer and must comply with EU criteria relating to cosmetic product claims.

Why does the label material matter?

In cosmetics, not only the content of the label matters, but also its durability. Products are often stored in bathrooms and exposed to moisture, contact with water, oils, or abrasion during everyday use. Therefore, labels for the cosmetics industry should be selected not only with appearance in mind, but also with regard to the conditions in which they will be used. In many cases, film labels work very well because they provide greater resistance to moisture and mechanical damage while maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the product throughout its period of use.

Label aesthetics and purchasing decisions

In the cosmetics industry, the label is one of the most important points of contact between the customer and the brand. Properly selected colors, legible typography, finishing, and consistency with the packaging help the product stand out on the shelf and build a professional image. A well-designed cosmetic label should therefore combine three elements: regulatory compliance, readability of information, and visual attractiveness.

What is worth remembering?

Labels for the cosmetics industry must simultaneously fulfill an informational, legal, and sales function. They should contain all required data, be durable, legible, and adapted to the type of packaging and the conditions in which the product will be used. A well-prepared cosmetic label not only helps meet legal requirements, but also strengthens brand image and makes it easier for the customer to choose the product. Missing or incorrect labeling may lead to the cosmetic being considered non-compliant and may result in actions by market surveillance authorities and penalties provided for under national law.

Cosmetic labels are a mandatory element of the product and must contain a range of information specified by law. If this information is missing, the product may not be allowed on the market, and substantial financial penalties may be imposed on the manufacturer. In Etisoft’s offer, you will find various types of labels as well as printers for their printing.

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