Cosmetic Labelling: Everything You Need to Know

Cinterqual
Sep 21
2 min read

Cosmetic labelling is one of the most important elements to ensure safety, transparency, and consumer trust. In Portugal and the European Union, all cosmetic products must comply with strict legal requirements defined by Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009, guaranteeing that consumers have access to clear information about composition, shelf life, origin, and usage.

In this article, we will explain what information must appear on cosmetic packaging, the most common cosmetic symbols, and how to correctly interpret labels.

What does the legislation say about cosmetic labelling?

In the European Union, cosmetic product labelling must include:

Identification of the manufacturer or responsible person
Nominal quantity (weight or volume)
List of ingredients (INCI – International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients)
Expiry date or period after opening
Precautions for use, if applicable
Batch number or reference for traceability
Country of origin (for products imported from outside the EU)

💡 Tip: All this information must be legible, in the local language, and clearly accessible to the consumer.

Mandatory and most important cosmetic symbols

Cosmetic labels also include standardised graphic symbols, which provide essential information at a glance. The most common ones are:

1. PAO Symbol (Period After Opening)

Shown as an open jar with a number of months (e.g., “12M”), it indicates how long the product can be safely used after opening.

2. Expiry Date

Represented by an hourglass, it shows the date until which the product can be safely used.

3. Open Book

This symbol means there are additional instructions available (usually on a leaflet, peel-off label, or secondary packaging).

4. Recycling Symbol

Indicates that the packaging is recyclable, encouraging proper waste separation.

5. Green Dot

Means the manufacturer contributes to a packaging recycling/recovery system.

6. “e” Symbol (nominal quantity)

The lowercase “e” guarantees that the quantity declared on the packaging complies with European measurement standards.

Why is cosmetic labelling so important?

✔ Safety – Allows consumers to check ingredients and avoid allergens.

✔ Transparency – Builds trust and credibility for the brand.

✔ Legal compliance – Ensures the product can be marketed in Portugal and across the EU.

✔ Sustainability – Recycling information helps reduce environmental impact.

Best practices for brands and consumers

For brands:

Use clear and accessible language.
Ensure symbols meet minimum size requirements.
Comply with Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009.
Provide translations for all markets where the product is sold.

For consumers:

Always check the PAO and expiry date.
Read the ingredient list (INCI) before trying new products.
Look for recycling symbols to properly dispose of packaging.

Conclusion

Cosmetic labelling is much more than just a detail on the packaging – it is a tool for safety, legality, and consumer trust. Knowing the symbols and mandatory information helps both consumers and brands ensure safe and responsible product use.