The Bureau of Food and Drugs as per consultation with dermatologist and other experts, wishes to clarify and guide concerned personnel and clients regarding the use of the following words and cosmetics claims: Exfoliate and Exfoliant in the evaluation of cosmetic labelling.

Exfoliants are fundamentally astringents that are intended to encourage desquamation of stratum corneum of the skin.  For example: witch hazel, salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, when added to these preparations.  Exfoliants are prepared for oily skin and are intended in place of astringents in most cleansing regimens for acne-prone persons.

The following claims, therefore, shall be considered acceptable by BFAD with the submission of the substantive evidence and/or the formulation of the cosmetic preparation itself. These claims or those similar to these are:

1.    Exfoliants

2.    Exfoliate

3.    Remove or shed-off œdead  skin surface cells

4.    Uncover œnew  skin that looks cleaner, fresher and finer

5.    Accelerate the natural renewal of skin cells

6.    Aid in the treatment of acne by alleviating comedones

Other words and phrases not included in the list stated above will be evaluated based on the technical evidence that will be submitted to substantiate the action, benefit or advantage that such words or phrases will depict.

Adopted: 24 Nov. 1999

(SGD.) WILLIAM D. TORRES, PHD.
Director