Be Prepared for the Challenges ahead as the UK Exits the EU  Insights from CTPA experts to help you be successful in the new UK regulatory and environmental landscape 

On Tuesday 10th July, CEW were delighted to welcome Dr Chris Flower, Director-General at CTPA and Dr Emma Meredith, Director of Science at CTPA. CTPA is the UK Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association representing all aspects of the beauty industry including the making, supplying and selling of cosmetic and personal care products and acts as the responsible voice of the UK industry.
Both Chris and Emma came prepared to reassure the cosmetics industry through changing times with an “authentic and authoritative” voice based on the work being done by the CTPA with the relevant UK government departments and sister organisations in the EU and internationally.
Chris and Emma were welcomed to give their expert insight in to the implications of Brexit and how this may affect the cosmetics industry. With the uncertainty that hangs in the coming year, both renowned specialists provided excellent clarity and confidence regarding the significant changes that Brexit is likely to cause.
Chris Flower began by noting that “it is essential that the UK and European Union speak with one voice”, as what will affect the UK, will also affect the other 27 member states of the EU. The cosmetics industry should expect production, distribution and wholesale to be the three heavily affected areas by Brexit. Chris further explained, “what was once a seamless production, could be a big issue looking forward”; as access to the EU market, UK market and all current goods available are at risk once Article 50 comes fully into effect.
The UK Government has around 19,000 EU regulations to transfer to UK law, including the EU Cosmetics Regulation. Chris advised that all businesses within both the UK and EU should begin to plan, set deadlines and lastly, remain prepared for the new regulations that will affect the cosmetics industry. With Britain expected to leave the EU on 1st January 2021, Chris concluded “it is imperative that we remain informed on the current and new legislations that could emerge”.
In addition to this, Emma Meredith provided insightful information regarding the current hot topic of environmental plastic, discussing how frequently, non-degradable materials that end in our oceans are a direct result of littering or wrongly-disposed materials. The cosmetics industry contributed just 0.29% to the ocean’s micro-plastic litter. A “holistic approach to plastic” is vital in reversing environmental damage.
What’s more, Emma continued to discuss how ‘free-from’ and ‘hypo-allergenic’ are two misunderstood terms within the cosmetics industry, further driving desire for clearly communicated branding and packaging. Emma explained the need to comply with the six common criteria for cosmetic claims:
•Legal compliance•Truthfulness•Evidence support•Honesty•Fairness•Allow informed decisions
CEW thanks Dr Flower and Dr Meredith for providing confidence in cosmetics at such an uncertain time.