Why Cosmetic Testing Matters – Understanding CPSRs and Product Safety

At Willow and Birch, we believe in transparency, safety, and quality. As a maker of small-batch, vegan skincare, we’re committed to creating beautiful, effective products but more importantly, ones that are safe for your skin and health. That’s where cosmetic testing and something called a CPSR comes in.

But what exactly is a CPSR? Why should you care as a consumer? And what are the risks if the products you’re buying haven’t been properly tested or registered? Let’s break it down.

What is a CPSR?

A Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR) is a legally required document for any cosmetic product sold in the UK and EU. It’s a detailed safety assessment carried out by a qualified cosmetic safety assessor (usually a pharmacist, toxicologist, or chemist), which reviews every ingredient in the product, the formulation, how it’s used, and who it’s suitable for.

The CPSR ensures that:

• The product is safe for use on human skin.

• Each ingredient is within legal safety limits.

• The combination of ingredients poses no risk to the user.

• Any allergens are clearly labelled.

This is a legal requirement under the UK Cosmetic Regulation (UKCR), and without it, a cosmetic product should not be sold.

Why We Test

Cosmetic testing isn’t just red tape, it protects you the customer. Even natural ingredients can cause harm if they’re not used correctly. For example, essential oils need to be diluted to safe levels, and preservatives must be used appropriately to prevent contamination or spoilage.

Testing ensures:

• Products are safe for use on the skin.

• There’s no contamination or risk of irritation.

• Your skin won’t be exposed to dangerous levels of allergens or sensitizers.

• The formula remains stable over time

What’s Tested?

When creating a product, every detail is checked and tested:

• The ingredients – Are they permitted in the UK? Are they safe in the amounts used?

• The formula – How do the ingredients interact? Are there any risks when used together?

• The usage – Is it safe for the face? The body? Children?

• The packaging and storage – Will the product remain stable and uncontaminated?

We also assess whether a preservative system is necessary, especially in products that contain water, to prevent microbial growth.

Why This Matters to You

As a consumer, you have the right to know that the products you put on your skin are safe. With the rise in DIY skincare and small businesses selling online, it’s more important than ever to check that products:

• Are properly tested with a valid CPSR.

• Are labelled with allergens, batch numbers, and expiry or use-by dates.

• Have been registered on the UK Cosmetic Product Notification Portal (SCPN), which is required for every product on the UK market.

At Willow and Birch, we’re proud to say that every single one of our products has been safety assessed, certified, and registered.

The Risks of Buying Uncertified Products

It can be tempting to buy beautiful-looking handmade products online or at markets—but if the seller hasn’t gone through proper cosmetic testing, you could be putting your skin and health at risk.

Without certification:

• You don’t know what’s in the product.

• There may be unsafe levels of essential oils or allergens.

• The product may not be preserved correctly, increasing the risk of bacteria or mould.

• You won’t be protected if you have a reaction, because the seller hasn’t met legal safety obligations.

How to Spot a Responsible Seller

Here are a few tips for checking if the skincare or beauty product you’re buying is compliant:

✅ Ask if they have CPSRs for their products

✅ Look for clear labelling (including ingredients and allergens)

✅ Check if batch numbers and contact info are provided

✅ See if they mention SCPN registration on their website or socials - ask if their product is registered

✅ Be cautious of vague ingredient lists or unlabelled jars

If in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask questions, reputable brands will always be happy to answer.

Safe and Certified

At Willow and Birch, we take your trust seriously. Every product we sell has been carefully formulated, independently tested, and fully registered on the UK Cosmetic Product Notification Portal.

You can enjoy our products knowing they are not only handcrafted and vegan-friendly but also professionally certified for safety and compliance.

Your skin deserves nothing less. 💚