What can hair products actually claim? (EU Cosmetics Regulation explained)
If you search online for solutions to hair problems such as dandruff, hair loss, itching or a sensitive scalp, you often come across all sorts of promises from shampoos and hair products. But what can hair products actually legally claim?
In Europe, shampoos, conditioners, hair masks and other hair care products are covered by the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. This law defines what cosmetic products can and cannot say about their effects.
In this article, we explain in a clear way:
- What cosmetic hair products are allowed to do under the law
- which claims are not allowed
- Why you often see phrases like “can help with”
- when hair or scalp problems may be medical
What are cosmetic hair products according to EU law?
According to European regulations, cosmetic products are meant to care for and enhance appearance. For hair care, for example, this means that products are meant to:
- cleanse the hair and scalp
- care and protect the hair
- make hair softer and more manageable
- add shine, volume or texture
- improve the appearance of hair
Cosmetic products are thus care products. They are not meant to treat medical conditions.
What claims should hair products not make?
Cosmetic products are not allowed to make medical claims. Once a product claims to treat a disease or condition, it legally falls under a medicine.
Examples of claims that are not allowed for cosmetic hair products are:
- “cures dandruff”
- “stops hair loss”
- “treats eczema”
- “cures psoriasis”
- “treats rosacea”
- “Helps against vitiligo”
- “Treats hidradenitis suppurativa”
Such claims may only be made by medical products officially registered as medicines.
Why do you often see phrases like “can help with”?
Because cosmetics are not allowed to make medical claims, manufacturers and online shops use formulations that describe a product's caring properties.
Common phrases include:
- suitable for sensitive scalps
- can help with flakes
- supports the care of dry hair
- helps keep hair supple and shiny
- suitable for hair that gets oily easily
These describe the cosmetic effect of a product without making medical claims.
Common hair and scalp problems
Many people experience one or more hair or scalp problems in their lives. Some common complaints include:
- rose
- flakes
- itchy scalp
- dry scalp
- oily scalp
- sensitive or irritated scalp
- oily hair
- dry hair
- frizzy hair
- lifeless or limp hair
- damaged hair
- thinning hair
- hair loss
Cosmetic products can help care for hair and scalp, for example by gently cleansing, moisturising or making hair more manageable.
Skin conditions that can also affect the scalp
Some skin problems are medical conditions that can also occur on the scalp. For example:
- eczema
- seborrheic eczema
- psoriasis
- rosacea
- vitiligo
- hidradenitis suppurativa
- folliculitis
- alopecia areata
Cosmetic products may not treat or cure these conditions. In case of complaints such as severe itching, inflammation, sores or sudden hair loss, it is wise to consult a doctor or dermatologist.
Why we formulate carefully
At The Natural Hairdresser Shop, we sell cosmetic hair care products. Therefore, we describe products based on their caring properties.
We use phrases such as:
- up to
- can help with
- supports the care of
We do this deliberately to provide clear and honest information within European cosmetics regulations.
Want to know more about hair problems?
Want to know more about common hair and scalp problems and how to best care for your hair? On our website, you will find several articles and tips on natural hair care.
This will help you better understand what your hair needs and what care is appropriate.
Conclusion
Hair products are cosmetic care products and are subject to clear European regulations. They may cleanse, condition and protect hair, but they cannot treat or cure medical conditions.
Knowing these rules will help you better understand product claims and keep realistic expectations of hair care.
This article is intended as general information on hair care and cosmetic regulations. In case of persistent skin or scalp complaints, we recommend consulting a doctor or dermatologist.
About Diana - The Natural Hairdresser
Diana is a hairdresser through and through: hands in hair, feet in clay. She tests every product herself in her salon. Only products that really work and contribute to natural, healthy hair end up in our webshop. That way, you can be sure you are choosing pure, professional quality.
