What does “external use” mean for cosmetics?

Wade wonders… So I have started to use Nivea Creme on all parts of my body, including my lips. The tin says that the cream is “for external use only.” I would like to know the definition of: “for external use only,” specifically as it relates to the cosmetic world. The Beauty Brains respond: By definition all cosmetics are for external use only. To refresh your mind here is the legal definition of a cosmetic: “The FD&C Act defines cosmetics as articles intended to be applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance without affecting the body’s structure or functions.” External does include the lips but does this definition mean that every single cosmetic can be applied anywhere on your body? Not quite. There are some subtleties in what is meant by “external.” Here are a few examples of products that are applied externally but CAN’T be applied all over your body. Product intended for use around the eyes These are products used AROUND the eye, not in it, such as eyeshadow, mascara, eyeliner, and eye creams. To be used around the eyes products must be formulated with colorants that have been approved specifically for that use. In other words you can’t just use any random color in eyeshadows, etc. Products intended for use on the lips These include lipsticks, lip glosses, lip balm, and some moisturizers. The same warning applies here: products ...
Source: thebeautybrains.com - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Questions Source Type: blogs