Different Types of Cosmetic Labels

Dynamic labeling plays a critical role in the successful marketing of cosmetic and personal care products. Labeling accomplishes more than identifying the product; it also informs consumers about its contents and intended use. The FDA closely regulates cosmetic labels, following guidelines set forth by the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act and the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

Labeling Regulations Per the FDA

Per the FDA's regulations, there are two main kinds of labels for cosmetic products. These are the information panel (IP) and the Principal Display Panel (PDP).

Primary Display Panel

The PDP is the main label that shows things like the brand logo and product name. These labels must meet specific FDA requirements, including:

• Identity Statement: Identity statements are meant to inform the consumer about the product and how it's intended use. This statement must be completely clear to the consumer. It must use a name that the public understands (such as "concealer"), an illustration that shows how it's used, or any other less common description that will still be understood.
• Quantity: Labels must accurately state the net quantity of the item's contents. These can be described in weight measurements, numerical count, measure, or a combination of the three.
• Safety Warning: Most major brands of cosmetics are subject to rigorous safety testing. However, if safety has not been guaranteed by one or more of the product's ingredients, the label must include a warning that the product's safety has not been confirmed.

In addition to these label requirements, the FDA dictates the size and shape of a label based on its packaging. They also require labels to have specific font sizes and contrasting colors depending on the text's information. Some of the requirements include:

• Rectangular packages must have labels that take up one entire side.
• Cylindrical packages must have a label that is 40% of the height multiplied by the circumference of the package.
• Other package shapes must have labels that take up 40% of the total package surface, excluding the bottom, top, flanges, or other irregular parts.
• Labels must have large enough text to be read easily.
• Labels must have enough color contrast between text and background to make information legible.
• Required statements are not allowed to be covered by designs, crowded, or have information printed over them.

Why Label Design is Important

With all of the information that needs to be included, the label's design must be perfect. Labels are more than just a vehicle for getting information to the consumer. They are representative of the brand's identity and should be designed with that in mind.

Some design elements that help capture the consumer's attention include holographic, glossy, and foil,and peel and seal labels. If the product's packaging is eye-catching on its own, clear labels can be used to provide the necessary information while showcasing the product's container.

Labels must also be made from high-quality, durable material, as cosmetic products are meant to be handled frequently. Products used in the shower will need to be made from waterproof materials to avoid wearing off quickly. After all, the more regularly the consumer sees the product's label, the more they will recognize the brand.

Some cosmetic products are sold in less standard packaging. For these products, it is best to use a unique die-cut label that suits the packaging shape.

Using Bay Tech Label for Cosmetic Labels

Following all the FDA requirements while using eye-catching design elements to create the perfect cosmetic label may seem overwhelming. Bay Tech Label has experienced designers and various label options that can make the process easy for cosmetic brands. They know what materials and finished work best and can help make a product stand out from the rest.