FDA Tightens-Up on Wrinkle Claims

The US Food and Drug Administration has been putting a wrinkle in recent skin care claims that border drug promises. In an effort to keep companies honest, the FDA periodically sends warning letters. So far this year, several major firms have received a letter. The FDA challenged one manufacturer’s claim to be “clinically proven to change the anatomy of a wrinkle.” Claims that suggest the product retards or controls the aging process or molecule penetration or to physiologically alters a wrinkle or dark spot are suspicious. The FDA wants to limit claims to cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance. Consumers expect more.
Most OTC customers are seeking flawless, ageless and spotless skin. Consumers suffer from a range of aging skin, hyperpigmentation, acne and dryness. While a company can never claim to cure an acne condition, revive cells, alter cellulite, or reverse the aging process, these are the claims consumer expect. Several major skin care manufacturers have been warned to craft their claims in such a way that they avoid legal complications. Many products are classified as both a cosmetic and a drug. Such medicated skin products must be approved by the FDA before distribution. Continued FDA concern regarding hydroquinone resulted in blocking melanin-blocking ingredients such as kojic acid, licorice root, and arbutin. A wide array of body butters, known to moisturize and soften, are attempting to claim anti-aging properties. Manufacturers must continue to offer reparative or restorative claims. Their language must be tightened up to suggest ingredients will “help” to repair or restore.

ElayneMcClaineMug
Elayne McClaine has identified and developed emerging domestic and global trends in hair care, skin care and other consumer categories for such firms as Chesebrough-Pond’s, Revlon and Pharmacia (div. of Pfizer). Her expertise in therapeutic treatments for hair, skin and scalp led to the creation of the Women’s Institute for Fine and Thinning Hair, sponsored by Rogaine. McClaine has been acknowledged by the American Academy of Dermatologists for marketing and promotional excellence. ESME Market Specialists, LLC consults with firms that require expertise in strategy development, multicultural marketing and account planning. For more information, visit www.esmemarketspecialists.com.

 

 


OTC Beauty Magazine offers useful business tips and effective selling tools to boost revenue and customer traffic for OTC retailers. The magazine also provides invaluable product knowledge, industry news and insights for retail store owners, manufacturers, distributors and professionals in the barber and beauty supply industry. Contact us: editor@otcbeautymagazine.com

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October 2024

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