What cosmetics are also drugs?

Cosmetics are products you apply to your body to clean it, make it more attractive or change the way it looks. Cosmetic products include items such as hair dyes, makeup, perfumes, skin-care creams and more.

According to MedlinePlus.gov, products such as dandruff shampoo, fluoride toothpaste and antiperspirant deodorant are both cosmetics and drugs. A good way to tell if you're buying a cosmetic that is also a drug is to see if the first ingredient listed is an "active ingredient." The active ingredient is the chemical that makes the product effective, and the manufacturer must have proof that it is safe for its intended use.

The U.S. Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Act and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act are enforced by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and aim to protect consumers from harmful cosmetic products. You may wish to view the FDA's webpage about how the Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act protects you.

If you have a bad reaction to a cosmetic:

• Stop using the product.
• Call your doctor to find out how to take care of the problem.
• Call the FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) at 1.301.436.2405 or send an e-mail to CAERS@cfsan.fda.gov.
• Notify the company that makes the product.

For more information about cosmetics, please visit the following resources:

• Cosmetic Labeling Guide 
• GirlsHealth.gov - Make-up 
• Hair Dye and Hair Relaxers 
• Household Products Database - Personal Care Products
  

By USA.gov team