FDA to launch survey on allergens from cosmetics

08-Nov-2018 - Last updated on 08-Nov-2018 at 18:10 GMT

The US FDA wants to increase awareness and knowledge of allergens caused by cosmetics, and to this aim it has asked consumers to share their experience.

Incidences of allergens of every variety are on the rise in the US and worldwide, and cosmetic and personal care products are often cited as a major cause.

The FDA has created a web-based consumer survey that will touch on the spectrum of categories that the area covers, including fragrance, hair care, skin care, nail and make-up products.

Critical to product oversight

“Gathering information about consumer experiences with cosmetic products, especially adverse reactions such as irritated skin or an allergic reaction, is critical to the FDA’s ability to effectively conduct surveillance and oversight of these products in the U.S. marketplace,” said FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D.

The survey will be the first of its kind since 1975, and aims to collect information that will lead to improved knowledge on allergen triggers and causes.

Additionally, the survey will also serve to help the FDA discover more about consumer perceptions on allergens in cosmetics and how these perceptions impact product choice.

Proposal needs feedback to progress

“As part of the FDA’s ongoing efforts to learn more about allergens in cosmetics, we’re announcing today our proposed plans to conduct a survey to collect information that will improve our current understanding of adverse events associated with allergens in cosmetics,” said Gottlieb.

“To help ensure we are collecting all relevant information, as a first step, we are asking for public input on the survey. The information that the FDA collects through this survey is an important step in advancing a process for reducing exposure to allergens in vulnerable individuals.”

The FDA is encouraging the public to submit comments on the survey. Written comments may also submitted to Docket Management Staff (HFA-305), Food and Drug Administration, 5630 Fishers Lane, Room 1061, Rockville, MD 20852.

The FDA has also stressed that it will need full approval to conduct the survey from the Office of Management and Budget, and as a first step towards that process it has also published a notice on the Federal register to invite comment on the survey.