Which Beauty Products Need FDA Approval
Most everyday beauty products, such as shampoo, moisturizer, and lipstick, do not require premarket FDA approval. They must still be safe for consumers and properly labeled under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
Color Additives and Drug Claims
Color additives used in cosmetics must be approved by the FDA before sale, with exceptions for some coal-tar hair dyes. Products that make drug claims, like anti-dandruff shampoo or sunscreen, are regulated as drugs and must meet FDA approval standards.
Checking FDA Status and Reporting Issues
You can verify whether a color additive is approved by searching the FDA database at https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/color-additives. Consumers can report safety concerns or adverse reactions through the FDA’s MedWatch program or the Safety Reporting Portal.
