OnSkin, a cosmetics ingredient scanner app, has debuted the Safe Choice stamp, a science-based designation aimed at helping consumers identify products made solely with safe ingredients. This designation results from a thorough analysis by OnSkin's medical and scientific experts, who evaluate each ingredient based on current scientific research and regulatory data.
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The criteria for the Safe Choice designation includes assessments of endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, carcinogenicity, allergy risk, and alerts for high concentrations of certain substances. Julia Kuprina, OnSkin's product director, discussed the importance of Safe Choice in a market characterized by rapid product turnover, frequent reformulations, and increasing consumer demand for transparency.
Kuprina noted that several cosmetic ingredients still carry long-term health risks or can trigger immediate sensitivities. She emphasized that most consumers struggle to interpret product labels, given the complexity of ingredient functions. "Through OnSkin and Safe Choice, we help lift that veil, translating complex ingredient data into accessible language and clear insights for safer, healthier cosmetic choices," Kuprina said.
The Safe Choice stamp facilitates consumer understanding of ingredient safety, enabling informed decision-making without the need for extensive research. Kuprina highlighted that the mark emphasizes formulas adhering to high safety standards, simplifying choices in an over-saturated market.
OnSkin maintains the independence of the Safe Choice mark, not collaborating with any cosmetic brands or engaging in promotional activities. Kuprina stated that their evaluations are conducted objectively, treating ingredient lists without brand bias and relying on established scientific and regulatory evidence.
To create Safe Choice, OnSkin studied existing labeling systems and concluded that clarity is crucial. Kuprina explained that understanding the terms used in safety labeling, such as 'clean' or 'chemical-free,' is essential, as these terms can often be misleading. For example, natural ingredients can pose higher allergenic risks, while synthetic alternatives may be safer.
The initiative aims to foster innovation in the cosmetics industry by prioritizing human health. Kuprina asserted that Safe Choice is designed to drive forward-thinking practices rather than restrict them. The stamp encourages brands to regularly reassess their ingredient choices and adopt safer alternatives as they become available.
As consumer awareness of ingredient safety grows, brand accountability and transparency become vital for maintaining trust. Over the past few years, many products in OnSkin's extensive database have shown improved safety scores, reflecting a shift toward cleaner formulations. Kuprina anticipates that the Safe Choice category will expand as industry standards continue to rise.