Which agency regulates cosmetics in the United States?

• A. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• B. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• C. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
• D. Health and Human Services (HHS)

Answer: (B)

Regulating cosmetics in the United States is handled by the Food and Drug Administration. The FDA oversees cosmetic safety and labeling under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Cosmetics don’t require premarket approval before they’re sold, but they must be properly labeled and free from adulteration or misbranding. An important detail is that color additives used in cosmetics do need FDA approval before use. The Environmental Protection Agency focuses on environmental protection and pesticides, not cosmetic products. The Federal Trade Commission enforces truth-in-advertising for cosmetics, while Health and Human Services is the department that houses the FDA, with the FDA being the active regulator for cosmetics.