Safe working

UK

Cosmetics regulation

Hairdressers and beauticians use and sell cosmetic and personal hygiene care products. These products are regulated by the European Cosmetics Regulation which sets requirements for the products and also for the companies that either manufacture or import the products to the EU. There are also some requirements for companies working as distributors. Hair salons and beauty salons are distributors if they sell products to their customers. Therefore, it is their responsibility to know cosmetics regulation and the parts that are applicable for them.

Regulation (EC) N° 1223/2009 on cosmetic products is the main regulatory framework for finished cosmetic products when placed on the EU market. It increases the safety of cosmetic products and streamlines the framework for all operators in the sector. The Regulation simplifies procedures to the extent that the internal market of cosmetic products is now a reality.

(http://ec.europa.eu/growth/sectors/cosmetics/legislation_en)

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH)

Consideration of COSHH in hairdressing and beauty care is essential for health and safety. If you work in a hair or beauty salon, then you will be working with hazardous substances on a daily basis. You may not realise that the products you use, might have the potential to cause ill health. Even the most ordinary of substances, including shampoo and water, can cause damage to your skin overtime.

(https://www.highspeedtraining.co.uk/hub/coshh-for-hairdressing-guide/)

Therefore it is very important that hairdressers and beauticians are aware of their personal protective equipment in working regulations (PPE). For example the use of protective gloves, an apron and other protective equipment will reduce occupational diseases and hazards and will enable longer careers in beauty care and hairdressing.

Material safety data sheets (MSDS) and INCI

Cosmetics Regulation does not require Material Safety Data Sheets for the finished cosmetic products. Instead, chemical legislation requires material safety data sheets for almost all chemicals, such as cleaning products. All hair and beauty salons should be aware of MSDS for cleaning products. All chemical products must have a list of ingredients (INCI). INCI list states the ingredients in a descending order of weight. It is essential for hairdressers and beauticians to know INCI because it will help for example in case of allergies.