In vitro Tests

The Directive on cosmetics provides the regulatory framework for the phasing out of animal testing for cosmetic purposes

Since 2004, the European Community has committed to prohibiting animal testing for cosmetic purposes and Directive on Cosmetics specifically establishes:

• Test ban on finished cosmetic products and ingredients on animals;
• Marketing ban on finished cosmetic products and ingredients that were tested on animals.

These provisions are envisaged in the Regulation that replaced the Directive on cosmetics on July 11, 2013.

The ban of tests on finished cosmetic products applies from September 11, 2004 while the ban of tests on ingredients or the combination of ingredients applies from March 11, 2009.

The marketing ban applies from March 11, 2009 for all side effects on human health with the exception of repeated dose toxicity, reproductive toxicity and toxicokinetics; for health effects and regardless of the availability of alternative tests, the ban applies from March 11, 2013.