Cosmetics

Definition
This section has been translated automatically.

According to § 4 LMBG, cosmetics are substances or preparations of substances which are intended to be used externally on humans or in their oral cavity for cleaning, care or to influence their appearance or body odour or to convey odour impressions, unless they are predominantly intended to alleviate or eliminate diseases, ailments, physical damage or pathological complaints (see also anti-aging). Substances or preparations of substances for cleaning or care of dental prostheses are considered to be equivalent to cosmetic products.
Cosmetic products do not include substances or preparations made from substances intended to influence the shape of the body.
According to § 4 LMBG, para. 1, a medicinal product but not a cosmetic product exists if the substances or preparations made of substances are predominantly intended to alleviate or eliminate diseases, suffering, physical injury or pathological complaints. In the meantime an international guideline for the declaration of information exists in which all ingredients of cosmetics have to be declared (see below INCI labelling).
This also applies to fragrance components which are of allergenic relevance.

Cosmetics include:

creams, emulsions, lotions, jellies and oils for skin care
Beauty masks
Make-up basics
Face powder, body powder, foot powder
Toilet soaps, deodorizing soaps
Perfumes, toilet water, cologne
Bath and shower additives
Hair Removal Products
Deodorants and antiperspirants
Hair treatment products: Colouring agents, curling agents, setting agents, water curling agents, cleaning agents, care products, hair styling aids, hair restorer (see Thymuskin).
Shaving products
Make-up and make-up remover for face and eyes
Lip care products and cosmetics
Dental and oral care products
Nail care products (see Visuera nail polish)
Agent for external intimate hygiene
Sunscreen, self-tanning lotion
Skin Bleach
Anti-wrinkle agent.

The clinical relevance of sensitization to cosmetics can be better evaluated by means of a use use test (see COADEX index).

De Groot AC et al (1997) Conversion of common names of cosmetic allergens to the INCI nomenclature. Contact Dermatitis 37: 145-150
Erdmann SM et al (2003) Contact sensitization to external agents. dermatologist 54: 331-337
Klobusch J et al (1990) Current approach in the diagnosis and therapy of alopecia in gynecology. Ther Umsch 47: 985-990
Schnuch A (2006) Undesirable reactions to cosmetics. Dermatology at work and in the environment 54: 140-159
Schurer NY (2003) Anti-aging. Facts and visions. dermatologist 54: 833-888
Zesch A (1999) Cosmetics, definition and legal basis of application. dermatologist 50: 243-249