Building Trust in Cosmetics Through Certification
The cosmetics industry is undergoing a significant transformation. Sustainability, transparency, and ethical practices are no longer optional, they are becoming a core expectation for both businesses and consumers.
From ingredient sourcing to packaging and product claims, today’s consumer standards are rising. They want reassurance that the products they use align with their values, whether that’s vegan formulations, environmentally responsible packaging, or verified sustainability claims.
At Control Union, we take this responsibility seriously. We support brands and manufacturers in navigating this evolving landscape through a range of globally recognized certification standards:
Vegan Standard
With demand for vegan products rising across industries, our Vegan Standard helps verify that products are completely free from animal-derived ingredients and produced without animal testing. It also ensures robust practices across production, processing, and transportation. For cosmetics companies, embracing vegan standards is not only about meeting growing market demand, but also about future‑proofing their brands in a landscape where compassion, credibility, and sustainability go hand in hand.
flustix Certifications
With new EU regulations, such as the Empowering Consumers for a Green Transition (EmpCo) directive coming into effect, independent verification of environmental claims is becoming mandatory.
Through our partnership with flustix, we offer certifications covering:
• Recycled content
• Microplastic-free products
• Reduced plastic packaging (min. 95% plastic-free)
• Recyclability
The flustix “microplastic-free” seal confirms that products, especially liquids or water-soluble items, do not contain added microplastics.
The certification requirements are based on the internationally recognized microplastic definition under REACH/ECHA. The certificate is issued based on laboratory testing and independent review by our certification partners.
In the cosmetics industry, packaging is just as important. Labels like flustix “Recycled Content,” “Reduced Plastic Packaging” (at least 95% plastic-free), and “Recyclability” help show the full sustainability of a product and build trust with customers.
COSMOS Standard
COSMOS certification provides assurance around quality and safety of cosmetics. It sets strict criteria for ingredient sourcing, environmentally friendly packaging, and responsible manufacturing practices.
As the industry continues to evolve, credible certification will play a critical role in building trust, ensuring compliance, and supporting sustainable innovation.
Responsible Living Wage
The cosmetics industry embodies beauty, care, and innovation, but these values must extend far beyond the final product. From sourcing natural ingredients to labor‑intensive processing, millions of workers are involved across global supply chains.
That is where the Responsible Living Wage Standard becomes essential. It ensures that workers earn wages that meet basic living needs, reduce in‑work poverty, and promotes dignity and equity. For cosmetics brands, committing to living wages is more than a social responsibility, it strengthens supply chain resilience, enhances credibility, and responds to growing consumer expectations for transparency and meaningful, ethical impact.