Cosmetics are now more popular than ever before. The agency responsible for regulating the【1】is the Food and Drug Administratio

Never before have so many cosmetics been available to make men and women more attractive, more desirable, and more socially acceptable.  Never before have Americans used such a wide variety and large volume of cosmetic products.
   Most of these products are safe for use, but it is very important that you observe some common-sense safety roles. The Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, is the federal agency which has been assigned by the Congress to assure the safety of the American cosmetics supply. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Art defines a cosmetic as an article which is to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled, or sprayed onto the body to cleanse, beautify, promote attractiveness, or change appearance.
   The law gives the FDA authority to take legal action against a cosmetic only after its dangers can be proved in a court of law. The FDA does not have authority to review the safety of cosmetics or their ingredients before they are sold to the public.
   To fulfill its duty under the law, the FDA constantly tests cosmetic products for unsafe substances or harmful bacteria.  The priority for this testing is based on consumer complaints about specific cosmetic products. Whenever a trend seems to be developing in consumer complaints, the FDA gives its attention to the group of cosmetics causing these complaints.
   Among the types of products which cause most complaints are deodorants and antiperspirants, hair preparations, and make up for the eyes.  Often the adverse effect, reported by the consumer, is not serious and disappears when use of the particular product is discontinued.  But improper use of some cosmetics can cause serious and permanent injury.
   In the past few years, the cosmetics industry has come a long way in providing further guarantees that cosmetics are safe and properly labeled. Cosmetics companies test their products, either in their own laboratories or through other laboratories.
   Recently, the cosmetics industry trade association, the Cosmetic,  Toiletry and Fragrance Association (CTFA), developed with the FDA a voluntary program which should assist the FDA’s efforts in assuring that cosmetics are harmless.  The first step of the program is the voluntary listing of cosmetic firms with the FDA. The second step calls for the manufacturers to list with the FDA the ingredients in their products, except for flavors and fragrances. The third step requires companies to provide the FDA with information on all consumer complaints they receive.
   These programs should contribute toward even greater assurances that cosmetics will be safe.