Regulatory Context
The CARB (California Air Resource Board) is in charge of protecting people against air pollution and its dangerous effects. It also oversees the development of programs to combat climate change.
Through CARB, California regulates the Clean Air Act differently than the rest of the United States. To sell a cosmetic product in California, cosmetics brands must comply with state regulations as well as with federal regulations.
In 1967, the state of California established CARB regulations which limit the presence of substances contributing to air pollution in cosmetics products in order to reduce environmental pollution.
Air pollution created by cosmetics products is an important issue related to Volatile Organic Compounds emissions reduction. Limitations have been set by the state of California per product category (hairsprays, fragrances, nail care, etc.) in order to mitigate this concern.
BIORIUS helps cosmetics brands determine the presence of limited or banned substances in cosmetics products based on this norm, and determines whether the results are acceptable or not. In the latter case, our experts will suggest the corrective actions to be taken.
How does it work?
BIORIUS’ process consists of two phases: the determination of the total concentration of CARB concentration and the conclusion.
- Determination of the Total CARB Concentration: BIORIUS analyzes the formula in order to determine the percentage of substances in each ingredient and then calculates the total percentage in the final product.
- Conclusion & Recommendation(s): BIORIUS determines the substances’ compliance for the specific product category according to the legislation.
Any corrective actions and remarks are provided for updating the formula when necessary.
In order to proceed with the CARB determination, BIORIUS’ experts analyze the product composition and each raw material in the product along with the product category and all characteristics.
When the product is compliant with the CARB regulations, a compliance certificate is issued, which highlight the following elements:
- Applicable legislation
- The concentration of CARB per ingredient
- Expert conclusions and any modifications to be implemented.