Pictograms play an important role in informing consumers about various aspects of the product. These can include both method of use, storage and safety of the product. These are unified symbols allowing consumers to be clearly informed about the most important information about cosmetics. For which pictograms pay attention when purchasing and using cosmetics – we will answer this question in this article.
Pictogram PAO (Period After Opening) represents an open jar and usually includes a number or a number and the letter "m" (e.g. 6M, 12M), which represents the number of months the product is safe to use after first opening.
Pictogram A hand on a book indicates that more important information about the cosmetic should be consulted in the accompanying leaflet. This symbol is used when the product label does not include all the most important information about the product.
Sunscreen products always contain basic information about the SPF value (Sun Protection Factor). The SPF rating indicates the level of protection against UVB radiation. Additionally, sunscreen products feature a UVA symbol in a circle, indicating that the product also protects against UVA radiation. However, it's important to remember that if a product is marked SPF50 and has a UVA pictogram in a circle, it means that the level of UVA protection is 1/3 of the SPF50 value.
The rabbit symbol indicates that the product has not been tested on animals, an important criterion for many consumers. However, it's important to remember that, according to regulations, animal testing for cosmetics has been prohibited in the European Union since 2004. In 2013, the law was made even more stringent. However, as of 2023, there are still manufacturers who circumvent these regulations.
Pictogram CE means that the product contains chemicals. These may include dyes or preservatives that have been approved by the European Union.
Pictogram A triangle with three arrows indicates that the packaging is recyclable. Additionally, this symbol indicates the material the packaging is made of (e.g., ALU or PET).
Pictogram This means that the manufacturer has a signed agreement with a waste recovery organization.
Pictogram A flame symbol indicates that the product is flammable. This symbol is most often found on aerosol products.
Some products may contain pictograms, which visually show how the product should be used, which helps in correct use.
To sum up - pictograms on cosmetics packaging provide important information about the product that may influence purchase decision and method of use. Understanding these symbols and consciously searching for them can lead to more responsible shopping and the use of cosmetic products.
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