About the California Safe Cosmetics Program

Background

Many different chemicals are used in making cosmetics. Some cosmetics contain chemicals known or suspected to cause cancer, birth defects, damage to the reproductive system, or other health harm. Those who work with cosmetics - including barbers, hair stylists, and skin care, body care and nail salon workers - may be more vulnerable to the adverse health effects posed by these products because they handle greater quantities of cosmetics with greater frequency.

The Law

The California Safe Cosmetics Act (CSCA) (PDF) was signed into law in 2005. The Cosmetic Fragrance and Flavor Ingredient Right to Know Act (CFFIRKA) was signed into law in 2020. For all cosmetics sold in California, these laws require the manufacturer, packer, and/or distributor named on the product label to report to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) all cosmetics that contain any ingredients known or suspected to cause harm, as described in authorizative lists specfied in these laws.

Goal

The California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP) is charged with implementing CSCA and CFFIRKA. The goal of CSCP is to collect and share information on hazardous and potentially hazardous ingredients in cosmetics sold in California and to make this information available to the public. 

Program Activities

• Maintain a list of ingredients reportable under the CSCA and CFFIRKA (Excel);
  

• Maintain a user-friendly reporting system;
  

• Maintain a publicly-available searchable database of product ingredient information submitted by companies;
  

• Create reports of submitted data (PDF), including reported products, ingredients and reformulations;

• Participate in efforts with health advocates, industry, regulators, and others to promote collaborative research efforts and product safety.
  

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