New requirements for cosmetics and washing and cleaning agents
Contact dermatitis – also known as contact eczema is one of the most common form of skin desease in Switzerland. About 15 – 20 per cent of the population will be affected at some point in their lives. It is an inflammatory reaction of the skin to certain substances and other external influences. Contact eczema can be an allergic reaction or due to excessive irritation.
There are countless substances that can act as contact allergens in causing eczema. They are mostly small-molecular, chemical substances, but natural substances, for example in plants, can also cause eczema. The most common triggers include: preservatives, fragrances, coloring agents, disinfectants and plants (Swiss Allergy Center, 2016).
Service Allergie Suisse has certified 163 cosmetics, detergents and cleaning agents with the Allergy Seal of Quality (as of 31 December 2021). As a basic requirement, the certified products must not contain, above a certain limit, 26 substances and compounds that are known to cause allergies.
We have decided to go one step further with the Allergy Seal of Quality and to examine the claims "without colorants", "without perfume", "without enzymes" more comprehensively. In the case of a claim of, for example, "without perfume", the product must be completely free of any perfume, not just allergenic perfumes.
In contact dermatitis, the eczema first appears where the skin comes into contact with the causative substance. To prevent further eczema, avoiding the trigger is therefore the most important strategy for treatment.
Cosmetics as well as detergents and cleaning agents with the certified claims "without perfume / without fragrances" or "without colorants" offer people with contact eczema a high level of protection from these triggers. Choosing a suitable product is also easier if a whole category of possible triggers is not included.
The regulations “Specific requirements for cosmetics and chemical products” have been adapted will come into force on 1 April 2022.
For further information: FAQ
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Fragrance-Free Day Switzerland
Fragrances are part of our everyday lives for example in cosmetics, washing and cleaning products. However, many people are unaware that at least 20% of the Swiss population is sensitised to at least one contact allergen. Fragrances are often involved and can trigger contact allergies and irritation. Fragrance-Free Day will take place for the first time on 1 February 2026 and is being launched jointly by aha! Allergy Centre Switzerland and Service Allergie Suisse. It draws attention to the health effects of fragrances and gives advice on choosing fragrance-free products. You can find more information (in German or French) on aha.ch.
When buying cosmetics, detergents, or cleaning products, look out for products with the Allergy Seal of Quality. This seal confirms that the products have been rigorously tested and are suitable for sensitive skin. Find your products.