Currently the FDA outlaws a number of specific ingredients in the formulation of cosmetic products that might come into contact with mucous membrane, and also maintains that warning labels be used with certain ingredients.
The organisation says that it is currently requesting input from the public and interested parties on the two topics, and asks that any comments be addressed to the organisation not later than February 20.
Currently the Mucous Membrane Irritation guidelines describe in vivo, in vitro and clinical test methods for evaluating potential irritation that are carried out on human volunteers.
Called the CFTA Safety Evaluation Guidelines, they provide manufacturers with a clear definition of the objectives for the preclinical and clinical safety testing that is carried out to establish the safety of both ingredients as well as finished products, that form part of the organization's Technical Guidelines series.
These guidelines undergo frequent development and review processes in order to keep up to date with latest developments on both the ingredients, finished product and scientific research in an effort to keep regulation bodies, scientists, consumers and industry in the know.
The CFTA says that an electronic copy of the guidelines is available upon request.
Back in December the FDA updated warning guidance for alpha Hydroxyl acids, specifying that any product containing the substance that is used on mucous membrane areas should contain a label that the ingredient is present in the product and as a result it might increase the sensitivity of the skin or the risk of sunburn.
Furthermore, the FDA also stressed that such products should specify on the label that a sunscreen should be warn in conjunction with use.
Irritation of mucous membrane is a major consideration for topical cosmetic and toiletry products as the skin in these areas is often hyper sensitive to a variety of chemicals and compounds used in cosmetic applications.
The mucous membrane are linings of ectodermic origin that are chiefly involved with secretion and absorption, making them particularly sensitive. The main areas that involve topical cosmetic and toiletry applications include the nostrils, ears and lips.