Introduction to cosmetic symbols

Cosmetic symbols are essential to inform consumers about various aspects of cosmetic products. These symbols visually represent important information, such as the type of ingredients, cruelty-free or vegan products, and the recyclability of the packaging.

As a new cosmetics company, it is crucial to understand and incorporate these symbols on your labels and packaging to ensure transparency for your consumers. Discover the meaning and importance of the most commonly used cosmetic symbols and the benefits they offer your brand and conscious consumers.

The 9 most important official cosmetic symbols

Cosmetic brands increasingly use symbols to communicate important product details to consumers. These symbols form a visual language that helps brands share essential information simply and effectively.

Symbol for vegan products (Vegan)

Indicates that the cosmetic products contain no animal ingredients.

This logo is not a standard makeup symbol and can be seen as a leaf with the word "vegan" around the circular image or as a thick black-and-white V in a circle.

Triangle of recycling arrows: Möbius loop

Indicates that the packaging is recyclable.

Not legally required in any country, but highly recommended for sustainability- and environmentally-conscious brands.

Symbol for cruelty-free products

Indicates commitment to animal welfare and avoidance of animal testing.

If you see this symbol on a product, you can trust that it has been rigorously tested and contains no animal testing.

Jar symbol: shelf life after opening (PAO)

Indicates the period during which the product can be safely used after opening.

The number on the jar indicates the number of months the product remains usable after opening. Example: "12M" means the product can be used up to 12 months after opening.

Hourglass symbol: minimum durability date

Indicates the recommended period during which the product should be used for optimal safety and efficacy.

In the European Union, the minimum durability date must be clearly stated if a product has a shelf life of less than 30 months.

Hand-in-book symbol: See package insert

Indicates that more information is available.

In EU and GCC countries, the use of this symbol is required when there is not enough space on the packaging to display the mandatory information.

Green Dot symbol

Represents commitment to environmental sustainability and recycling.

Indicates that the product packaging participates in a recycling program. No longer mandatory anywhere worldwide since January 2023.

Ecocert certification

Confirms the validity and quality of organic ingredients in cosmetic products.

This certification is voluntary but shows commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

E-symbol: nominal quantity

Indicates the quantity or volume of the product in the packaging.

Not a mandatory feature, but having it on your products facilitates sales in all EU countries.

Common unofficial cosmetic symbols

Many brands have created their own symbols in addition to the official cosmetic symbols to provide information about their products.

Kennzeichnungsanforderungen in verschiedenen Märkten

Hauptunterschiede zwischen den Märkten:

• Europäische Union: Erfordert das PAO-Symbol (Haltbarkeit nach Anbruch) für Produkte mit einer Haltbarkeit von mehr als 30 Monaten
• Vereinigte Staaten: Die FDA (Food and Drug Administration) verlangt kein Verfallsdatum für Kosmetika
• Golfstaaten: Erfordern Arabisch und klare Verfallsdaten auf allen Produkten
• China: Erfordert zusätzliche Produkttests und Zulassungen vor dem Markteintritt