Guidance on ‘Skin Age’ Related Advertising Phrases in Cosmetics

The Korea Cosmetic Association has issued new guidance regarding the use of ‘skin age’ related advertising phrases in cosmetics. This guidance recommends replacing the term ‘skin age index’ with ‘skin aging index’ and emphasizes the importance of transparency in testing and evaluation criteria for functional cosmetics.

Effective Date:

• The notice is effective from 29-Jul-2024.

Key Points:

• Ministry of Food and Drug Safety’s Position:
  • The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) in South Korea is addressing advertising claims related to ‘skin age’ in cosmetics.
  • It has been determined that the term ‘skin aging index’ is more appropriate than ‘skin age index.’
• Transparency Requirements for Cosmetic Companies:
  • Cosmetic companies are required to transparently disclose detailed information regarding human application tests. This includes:
    • The institution conducting the tests.
    • Participant details (such as gender and age).
    • Evaluation indicators.
    • Test results.
  • These performance indicators, such as UV protection and wrinkle improvement, can only be applied to functional cosmetics, not general cosmetics.
• Corrective Actions and Monitoring:
  • The MFDS plans to implement corrective actions on current advertisements, with a correction and guidance period as follows:
    • Advertisements: 3 months (until October 2024).
    • Labeling: 1 year (until July 2025).
  • After this period, the MFDS will monitor and take action against companies that violate the guidelines.
• Prohibition of ‘Skin Age’ Expressions:
  • The term ‘skin age’ will be added to the list of prohibited expressions.
  • The MFDS will specify the subjects and methods for proving claims related to the ‘skin aging index.’

Audience:

This document is issued by the Korea Cosmetic Association and is addressed to the CEOs of cosmetic businesses. It informs them of the new guidelines regarding ‘skin age’ advertising expressions and the correction and guidance period.

Source: “https://kcia.or.kr/home/edu/edu_01.php?type=view&no=16227&ss=page%3D%26skind%3D%26sword%3D%26ob%3D
https://kcia.or.kr/inc/down.php?dir=BOARD&file_name=202407_172198776819967_1.pdf&rename=2024_0726_%EB%8C%80%ED%95%9C%EC%9E%A5%ED%98%917-243.pdf“

Region: South Korea