Cosmetic product labeling is subject to regulations that vary by country, but the following are common mandatory instructions found across many regulatory frameworks (like the EU's Cosmetic Products Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, the FDA's Cosmetic Labeling Guide, or Health Canada’s Cosmetics Regulations):

1. Product Name

  • The common or usual name of the cosmetic product (e.g., "Anti-Aging Cream" or "Facial Cleanser").

2. Net Content

  • The quantity of product in the package, usually expressed in weight (grams or ounces) or volume (milliliters or fluid ounces).

3. Ingredient List

  • All ingredients must be listed in descending order of predominance, usually by their INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name. Fragrance or perfume components can sometimes be listed as "fragrance" or "parfum."

4. Name and Address of Manufacturer or Distributor

  • The name and address of the manufacturer, distributor, or responsible party must be present for consumers to reach them for more information.

5. Country of Origin

  • For products manufactured outside the country in which they are sold, the country of origin must be clearly indicated.

6. Warnings and Precautions

  • If the product contains ingredients or formulations that may cause irritation or have potential side effects, warnings and precautionary information must be listed. For example, "Avoid contact with eyes" or "For external use only."

7. Expiration Date or Period After Opening (PAO)

  • In some countries, you must include either the expiration date or the period within which the product is safe to use after opening (often displayed as a symbol of an open jar with a number, like "12M" for 12 months).

8. Batch Number or Lot Code

  • A unique code that helps to track the product for quality control or in case of a recall.

9. Instructions for Use

  • Clear and concise instructions on how the product should be applied, including any specific usage warnings.

10. Product Claims

  • Any claims about the product’s benefits (e.g., "anti-aging," "moisturizing") should be truthful and not misleading, and in some jurisdictions, evidence may be required to substantiate these claims.

11. Allergen Information (if applicable)

  • In some regions, allergens from fragrances or other ingredients must be highlighted, especially if present above certain thresholds.

12. Language Requirements

  • Labels must be in the official language(s) of the country where the product is being sold.

13. Storage Instructions (if applicable)

  • If the product has specific storage conditions (e.g., "store in a cool, dry place"), these should be indicated.

14. Eco-Labels or Certifications (if applicable)

  • If the product claims eco-certifications (e.g., organic, cruelty-free), those labels should follow the regulations or requirements of the certifying body.

Key Points for Region-Specific Guidelines:

  • United States (FDA): The product label must include ingredients, net weight, warnings, manufacturer/distributor details, and all the information must be placed on the principal display panel and information panel.
  • European Union (EU): The packaging must include an ingredient list, batch code, expiration date (or PAO), product function, and mandatory information must be in the national language of the country.
  • Canada: Similar to EU and FDA, but Health Canada requires bilingual (English and French) labeling, and a specific cosmetic notification process is required for safety assurance.

Ensuring compliance with local laws is essential to avoid penalties or product recalls.