Structure of the Cosmetics Directive 76/768/EEC

The Cosmetic Directive includes standards outlining what a cosmetic is defined as in order to be in the European Economic Area. The directive includes 15 Articles and 9 Annexes. The annexes range from lists of cosmetics to chemicals which are allowed in the cosmetics.

Annex I-List by category of cosmetic products
Annex II-Substances which should not be a part of cosmetic products
Annex III-List of substances cosmetic products must not contain except subject to the conditions and regulations agreed upon
Annex IV-List of colouring agents allowed in cosmetics
Annex V-List of substances excluded from the scope of the directive
Annex VI-List of preservatives that may be contained in cosmetics
Annex VII-List of UV filters that cosmetic products may contain
Annex VIII- Symbol for packaging
Annex IX-List of validated alternative methods to animal testing