Cosmetic testing
bans outside
Europe
Cosmetic testing bans in Europe are some of the most stringent in the world. Here is a summary of the situation in other major cosmetic-producing countries.
USA
Whilst the USA does not prohibit animal testing, the Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Validation of Alternative Methods (ICCVAM) was set up in 1997 with the aim of reducing animal testing. Once ICCVAM recommends that an alternative method has been adequately validated and the relevant test recommendations are accepted or endorsed by Federal regulatory agencies, the test becomes available for all toxicology purposes.
JAPAN
Several products qualified as cosmetics in the EU are qualified as quasi-drugs in Japan. This includes hair dyes and decolourants, anti-hair loss products, hair permanents/straighteners, depilatories, antiperspirants, deodorants, anti-acne, skin whiteners, bath treatment products, and medicinal cosmetics such as anti-dandruff shampoos. These products are subject to the same regulations as pharmaceuticals. A toxicological dossier is required to approve a new quasi-drug ingredient, which includes animal tests when no alternatives are available.
CHINA
In China, the control of cosmetic products and new cosmetic ingredients is under the responsibility of the Chinese State Food and Drug Administration. For finished cosmetics, such as hair dye, sun protection products and deodorants, a hygiene license or record-keeping certificate from the Health Administrative Department of the State Council is required and can only be obtained by the submission of animal data.