Regulatory Lag and Consumer Risk: Examining the Public Health Crisis in Cosmetics

Abstract

Millions of people daily use cosmetic products and personal care items in the modern society. Most consumers, meanwhile, are not aware that many of these goods hit the market under little government supervision. This Article seeks to increase public knowledge of the hidden hazards connected to improperly controlled cosmetics. Absence of appropriate safety criteria raises the possibility of harmful components, contamination, allergic responses, and long-term health consequences. This paper aims to inform the public on the need of cosmetic rules by stressing how strong laws can guard consumers from dangerous goods. Examining present U.S. laws including the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA) and the most recent Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA), we look at how cosmetic safety is being handled and where still gaps exist. The conversation centre’s on actual cases where inadequate surveillance resulted in adverse events or product recalls. This emphasizes why even apparently benign products consumers should be informed and wary of. Ultimately, public awareness is crucial. Customers have to grasp safety claims, ingredients, and labels. We can all help to create safer cosmetic practices by pushing openness and tougher laws