Personal Care Products Council Announces New Board Chair and Officers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Lisa Powers, powersl@personalcarecouncil.org, (202) 297-1232
Stefanie Harrington, harringtons@personalcarecouncil.org, (202) 615-6558  

Personal Care Products Council Announces New Board Chair and Officers
Barbara Menarguez, General Manager of Fragrance and Beauty, CHANEL, Assumes New Position March 2023

Washington, D.C. — The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) announced today the election of its new Board of Directors Chair Barbara Menarguez, general manager of fragrance and beauty, CHANEL. Menarguez has built a dynamic career in the beauty industry and currently oversees CHANEL’s marketing, sales, education and sales planning.

“Barbara’s impressive accomplishments and strong leadership will serve our membership well as we continue to advance our industry’s determination for a more beautiful and sustainable world,” said Lezlee Westine, PCPC president and CEO. “I look forward to working more closely with her as we continue to strengthen our commitment to our members and our consumers.”

Barbara Menarguez, general manager of Fragrance and Beauty, CHANEL

Menarguez has been with CHANEL for more than 25 years, serving as the company’s senior vice president and chief financial officer for eight of those years. She is widely recognized for her thoughtful leadership.

“PCPC is the voice for the industry whose products touch the lives of nearly every American household each day,” said Menarguez. “Families rely on our products to enhance their well-being and quality of life. I’m honored to help lead PCPC as we continue to educate policy makers, legislators, regulators, the media and, most importantly, our consumers about our innovative industry and our commitment to sound science.”

Joining Menarguez on PCPC’s Board of Directors are the following newly elected officers:

Vice Chairs:      
Esi Eggleston Bracey; president Unilever USA, CEO North America Personal Care; Unilever
David Greenberg; CEO L’Oréal USA and president, North America Zone; L’Oréal
Chris Heiert, senior vice president the Specialty Beauty Group, Procter & Gamble
Mark Loomis, president North America, The Estée Lauder Companies

Secretary:        
Maria “Duda” Kertész; president, U.S. Skin Health & Beauty; Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health

Treasurer:       
Deborah Gibbins, chief operating officer and chief financial officer, Mary Kay

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For more information on cosmetics and personal care products and their ingredients, please visit www.CosmeticsInfo.org.

Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the $529.3 billion global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the U.S. beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As the manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance – PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

More from PCPC

Personal Care Products Council Applauds Inclusion of Cosmetics Regulatory Reform in Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Lisa Powers, powersl@personalcarecouncil.org, (202) 297-1232
Stefanie Harrington, harringtons@personalcarecouncil.org, (202) 615-6558                      

Personal Care Products Council Applauds Inclusion of Cosmetics Regulatory Reform in Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 

Washington, D.C. — The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) and its member companies applaud Congress for including legislation that modernizes federal regulatory oversight of cosmetics and personal care products and creates a comprehensive and uniform national framework for cosmetics regulation. The long-awaited legislation advances product safety and innovation for the science-driven beauty and personal care industry and reinforces consumer confidence.

“We greatly appreciate Chairwoman Patty Murray, Ranking Member Richard Burr, Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr., and Ranking Member Cathy McMorris Rodgers for their leadership. This truly historic moment took over a decade, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders to support a contemporary approach to cosmetics oversight and further strengthen consumer trust in the products they use every day,” said PCPC President and CEO Lezlee Westine. “This landmark legislation would not have been possible without their leadership and commitment.”

PCPC Executive Vice President of Government Affairs Karin Ross added: “We entered this process advocating for well-crafted, science-based federal reforms to enhance our industry’s ability to innovate and to modernize regulation that has largely been unchanged for 80 years. These members of Congress guided that process. Thanks to their leadership, the Food and Drug Administration will have the necessary tools to ensure consistent regulation of cosmetics and personal care products.”

Consumer and product safety are top priorities for the beauty and personal care industry. PCPC looks forward to working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and key stakeholders to implement this important legislation.

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Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the $484.1 billion global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the U.S. beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As the manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance – PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

For more information on cosmetics and personal care products and their ingredients, please visit www.CosmeticsInfo.org. 

More from PCPC

The Personal Care Products Council Announces Second Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Lisa Powers, powersl@personalcarecouncil.org, (202) 297-1232
Stefanie Harrington, harringtons@personalcarecouncil.org, (202) 615-6558                            

The Personal Care Products Council Announces Second
Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Beauty Industry Recognizes Esi Eggleston Bracey, President Unilever U.S. & CEO Unilever Personal Care North America, as DEI Champion

Washington, D.C. – The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is proud to announce its second annual Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). The Award recognizes individuals in the beauty and personal care products industry who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to DEI through strong leadership and sustained efforts with a focus on workplace culture, program and policies, or through external engagement with consumers and communities.

Presented last night at the PCPC Leadership Summit 2022 opening reception, the selection committee awarded this distinction to Esi Eggleston Bracey – president of Unilever U.S. & CEO of Unilever Personal Care North America – in recognition of her dedication to advance DEI. Bracey is widely recognized and admired across the industry as someone who leads with respect and brings fresh thinking to businesses. She champions high-impact, purpose-driven efforts like Dove’s founding of the CROWN (Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) Coalition to foster beauty inclusivity and eradicate hair discrimination through the support of the CROWN Act legislation.

“This award means the world to me because the business of diversity is a team sport. Madam C.J. Walker knew that it wasn’t just about her own financial success, it was about the success she bestowed on others,” said Bracey. “The work that we do changes the narrative around beauty. So, let’s embrace it as a team sport. Let’s make this all of our award, raise the bar high, and commit to making this world more inclusive and more equitable for all people.”

The Award honors industry pioneer Madam C.J. Walker who started her hair care business at the turn of the century, during a time when women of color had few rights and little opportunity. The Award is given each year to individuals in the cosmetics or personal care industry. Nominees are judged on areas of achievement based on predetermined criteria.

“Madam C.J. Walker, Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein were among the women who started this industry when nobody else was paying attention,” said A’Lelia Bundles, event mistress of ceremonies and Madam Walker’s great-great-granddaughter. “And it turns out that this is not just about products, but it is about empowering people. Making women feel confident, but also giving people economic opportunity. And that’s very much what Madam Walker was about.”

“We owe so much to Madam C.J. Walker. She was a true trailblazer and one of the greatest entrepreneurs in history. She created jobs that helped thousands of women of color achieve financial independence. She is one of the reasons we have people like Esi leading the industry today,” said PCPC President and CEO Lezlee Westine. “Young women of color have many more opportunities and role models today, thanks to women like Madam Walker and Esi Bracey.”

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Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the $484.1 billion global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the U.S. beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As the manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance – PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

For more information on cosmetics and personal care products and their ingredients, please visit www.CosmeticsInfo.org. 

More from PCPC

Beauty and Personal Care Industry Leaders Gather During Leadership Summit to Envision a More Beautiful, Inclusive and Sustainable World

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Lisa Powers, powersl@personalcarecouncil.org, (202) 297-1232
Stefanie Harrington, harringtons@personalcarecouncil.org, (202) 615-6558

Washington, D.C. – After more than two years of virtual meetings, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) brings together industry executives and thought leaders for its first-ever Leadership Summit, an in-person gathering in the nation’s capital on September 28-29. Following the tradition of PCPC’s Annual Meeting, attendees will reflect on the beauty industry’s past, present and future with a focus on creating a more beautiful, inclusive and sustainable world.

In recognition of the release of PCPC’s second industry sustainability report, the Summit program highlights important issues of the day covered in the report, including regulation, environmental impacts and social issues challenging the nation. This year, PCPC is honored to be joined by prominent experts who will provide insights, lead panel discussions and challenge current thinking:

  • Bruce Mehlman, Mehlman Castagnetti Rosen & Thomas, providing analysis of policy and political trends driving the 2022 midterm elections
  • Commissioner Robert Califf, M.D., U.S. Food and Drug Administration, discussing industry topics and his vision for the Agency’s future
  • Larissa Jensen, The NPD Group, sharing insights and analysis of global beauty trends
  • Angela Diesch, Amin Talati Wasserman, providing insights on state legislation and regulation impacting the industry
  • Esi Eggleston Bracey, Unilever, moderating a discussion on how increased diversity helps government and business address challenges facing our nation, featuring Rep. Linda T. Sánchez and Heba Mahmoud, MITRE Corporation  
  • Pamela Gill-Alabaster, Mattel, moderating a panel on ESG practices, commitments and regulations, featuring subject matter experts from Covington and Burling, Dan Feldman, Laura Kim and Matt Franker
  • Ambassador Sarah Bianchi, Office of the United States Trade Representative, along with Hideaki Fujisawa, Rodrigo Godinho and Andrew Jory from the Embassies of Japan, Brazil and Australia respectively, highlighting new initiatives to address global challenges and expand market access for U.S. companies

The Summit’s first day concludes with a reception overlooking the Capitol to celebrate the second annual Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellent in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). The Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to DEI through strong leadership and sustained efforts with a focus on workplace culture, programs and policies, or through external engagement with consumers and communities. 

“While we know there is more work to be done, we are proud of how our commitment to a more beautiful, inclusive and sustainable world is reflected in the work of our members and our association,” said PCPC President and CEO Lezlee Westine. “It is critically important that our industry helps address social and environmental challenges and communicate that our commitment remains strong.”

Keech Combe Shetty, PCPC Board of Directors chair and Combe Inc. executive chair, noted: “Our industry’s products literally touch the lives of nearly every American household every day, and our constant pursuit of healthy people and a healthy planet is both good business and good stewardship.”

Newly elected at the PCPC Board of Directors meeting held at the Summit are the following:

Thomas Baudry, senior vice president, Finance & Operations; LVMH Perfumes and Cosmetics North America

Pascal Berthe, global head of worldwide product safety, Regulatory Affairs; Claims Substantiation & Microbiology; L’Oréal

Chris Heiert, senior vice president NA, Skin Care & Global Olay; Procter & Gamble

Luciana Castro, senior vice president, Legal & Compliance Strategy; Advocacy and Business Ethics; Firmenich

To learn more about PCPC’s Leadership Summit 2022, visit PCPC’s website. Follow Summit updates on Twitter at @PCPC_News. For more information about cosmetics and personal care products, please visit www.CosmeticsInfo.org.

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Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the $484.1 billion global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the U.S. beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As the manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance – PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

More from PCPC

Humane Groups and Cosmetics Trade Association Join Together to Support Bipartisan Humane Cosmetics Act

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contacts:         

Emily Snow Ehrhorn (202) 779-1814, eehrhorn@humanesociety.org  
Lisa Powers, (202) 466-0489, powersl@personalcarecouncil.org

Humane groups and cosmetics trade association join together to support
bipartisan Humane Cosmetics Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Humane Society of the United States, Humane Society Legislative Fund and the Personal Care Products Council issued the following joint statement today on the introduction of the Humane Cosmetics Act of 2021 in the U.S. Senate, S. 3357, and U.S. House of Representatives, H.R. 6207:

“The cosmetics and personal care products industry, the Humane Society of the United States and the Humane Society Legislative Fund have long advocated for government recognition and acceptance of non-animal testing methods for product safety. Today marks a momentous occasion with the introduction of the Humane Cosmetics Act in the U.S. by Sens. Cory Booker, D-N.J.; Rob Portman, R-Ohio; John Hickenlooper, D-Colo.; Susan Collins, R-Maine; and Jacky Rosen, D-Nev. A companion bill was introduced in the House by Reps. Don Beyer, D-Va.; Vern Buchanan, R-Fla.; Paul Tonko, D-N.Y.; Ken Calvert, R-Calif.; and Tony Cárdenas, D-Calif. In the true spirit of collaboration, the Humane Society of the United States, Humane Society Legislative Fund and the Personal Care Products Council encourage expeditious bipartisan passage of the legislation.

“Our precedent-setting support brings together the cosmetics and personal care products industry and animal advocacy community. We stand firm in our shared goal to eliminate new cosmetic animal testing and promote recognition and acceptance of non-animal approaches to cosmetic safety assessments.

“We applaud these members of Congress for driving a significant bipartisan effort to introduce the Humane Cosmetics Act. Consensus among a diverse group of stakeholders demonstrates widespread support for legislation that ensures a uniform standard for animal welfare and the development of safe and innovative cosmetics and personal care products.

“We look forward to working with this bipartisan group of Congressional leaders and other key stakeholders to help enact the Humane Cosmetics Act in this Congress to eliminate animal testing for cosmetics, while also ensuring the safety of the products consumers trust and rely on every day.”

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 About the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society Legislative Fund

Founded in 1954, the Humane Society of the United States fights the big fights to end suffering for all animals. Together with millions of supporters, we take on puppy mills, factory farms, trophy hunts, animal testing and other cruel industries. With our affiliates, we rescue and care for tens of thousands of animals every year through our animal rescue team’s work and other hands-on animal care services. We fight all forms of animal cruelty to achieve the vision behind our name: A humane society. 

Learn more about our work at humanesociety.org. Subscribe to Kitty Block’s blog, A Humane World. Follow the HSUS Media Relations department on Twitter. Read the award-winning All Animals magazine. Listen to the Humane Voices Podcast.  

The Humane Society Legislative Fund is a social welfare organization incorporated under section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code and formed in 2004 as a separate lobbying affiliate of the Humane Society of the United States. The HSLF works to pass animal protection laws at the state and federal level, to educate the public about animal protection issues, and to support humane candidates for office. Visit us on all our channels: on the web at hslf.org, on our blog at hslf.org/blog, on Facebook at facebook.com/humanelegislation and on Twitter at twitter.com/HSLegFund.

About the Personal Care Products Council

Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the $499.6 billion global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the U.S. beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As the manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance – PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation. For more information about our industry, our products and the ingredients used in them, please visit www.cosmeticsinfo.org.

More from PCPC

Karin Ross Promoted to EVP of Government Affairs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:                    

Lisa Powers, powersl@personalcarecouncil.org, (202) 297-1232
Stefanie Harrington, harringtons@personalcarecouncil.org, (202) 615-6558
Jamie Kurke, kurkej@personalcarecouncil.org, (202) 258-5285

Karin Ross Promoted to EVP of Government Affairs
Industry Veteran Will Lead U.S. Public Policy for the Beauty and Personal Care Sector

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) announced today the promotion of Karin Ross to executive vice president of Government Affairs, the organization’s top U.S. advocacy officer.

“For more than a decade, Karin has been an integral part of PCPC. Her counsel has been critical in navigating our efforts at the state level, particularly in California, where she established an effective grassroots coalition and strong relationships in Sacramento,” said Lezlee Westine, PCPC’s president and CEO. “At a time when every industry is facing uncertainty and challenges post pandemic, we are very fortunate to have someone as experienced and well respected as Karin. I am confident she will excel at leading our efforts with the administration, government agencies, Congress and state policymakers,” Westine said.

Ross has directed complex policy issues throughout her career. She has a long history overseeing multi-stakeholder engagement across the nation working to achieve public policy goals. She regularly testifies before state officials and serves as an industry spokesperson on key legislative issues.

In her new role, Ross will lead all U.S. advocacy and legislative issues and policy developments that impact the beauty and personal care industry at the federal and state level. Ross will harness her expertise at the state level as many issues start there before making their way to Capitol Hill. She will remain a tireless advocate for PCPC’s 600 member companies – leading cosmetics, fragrance and personal care products manufacturers and suppliers.

“I’m honored to continue representing this dynamic industry – some of the most trusted and beloved brands in beauty and personal care today. I will continue to enhance our efforts to ensure our members can provide the safe and innovative products consumers rely on every day,” said Ross.

Ross earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware and has completed professional education programs at the Public Affairs Council Institute and the State Government Affairs Council.

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Based in Washington, D.C., the Personal Care Products Council is the leading national trade association representing the global cosmetic and personal care products industry. Founded in 1894, the Council’s more than 600 member companies manufacture, distribute, and supply the vast majority of finished personal care products marketed in the U.S. As the makers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day, from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, lipstick and fragrance, personal care products companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

For more information about cosmetic and personal care products and their ingredients, please visit www.cosmeticsinfo.org.

More from PCPC

Maryland Consumer Protection Bill Becomes Law

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Monica Amarelo, (202) 939-9140, monica@ewg.org
Stefanie Harrington, (202) 615-6558, harringtons@personalcarecouncil.org

Maryland Consumer Protection Bill Becomes Law
The Environmental Working Group and the Personal Care Products Council
Collaborate to Protect Public Health

Washington, D.C. – The Environmental Working Group (EWG) and the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) commend Maryland House Bill 643 (HB 643) becoming law, which prohibits the sale and manufacture of cosmetics and personal care products with certain ingredients in Maryland. This bill moves the industry another step closer to global regulatory alignment.

“Maryland residents now have greater assurance of the safety of the consumer products they use every day, like lotion and body wash, toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, and makeup,” said EWG President Ken Cook. “This marks a momentous milestone in the history of cosmetics and personal care products regulation. Once again, groups like EWG along with a diverse group of stakeholders and the industry’s trade association, the Personal Care Products Council, support legislation to modernize the rules governing these products.”

Maryland is the second state – similar legislation was enacted in California last year – to limit the use of these ingredients from all cosmetics and personal care products such as moisturizers, hand sanitizers, body washes and other cosmetic products. The 24 ingredients are prohibited from use in cosmetic products sold in the European Union and other countries.

“We are pleased to have joined efforts with EWG and many other organizations on this important piece of legislation,” said PCPC President & CEO Lezlee Westine. “Maryland consumers deserve a law that provides consumers with continued confidence in the products they use and trust every day. We all agree that this bill helps protect public health in Maryland while safeguarding the more than 70,000 personal care and beauty related jobs in Maryland and the more than $4.5 billion contributed to the state’s gross domestic product.”

The law was sponsored by House of Delegates Member Julie Palakovich Carr (D-17/Rockville and Gaithersburg). We express special thanks for her leadership, along with Members of the Maryland General Assembly, and dedicated staff that worked together to bring this legislation to fruition.

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The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action. For more information, please visit www.ewg.org.

The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the leading national trade association representing the global cosmetics and personal care products industry. Founded in 1894, PCPC represents 600 member companies who manufacture, distribute and supply the vast majority of finished personal care products marketed in the U.S. As the makers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day, from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance, personal care products companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

For more information on cosmetics and personal care products and their ingredients, please visit www.CosmeticsInfo.org.

More from PCPC

House Judiciary Committee Hearing Shines Light on Dangers of Counterfeit Products

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contacts:  

Lisa Powers, (202) 466-0489, powersl@personalcarecouncil.org
Stefanie Harrington, (202) 615-6558, harringtons@personalcarecouncil.org
Jamie Kurke, (202) 454-0316, kurkej@personalcarecouncil.org

House Judiciary Committee Hearing Shines Light on Dangers of Counterfeit Products
Expert Witnesses Testify About Need for SHOP SAFE Act

Washington, D.C. — The U.S. House Committee on the Judiciary’s Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet held a hearing today highlighting efforts to address the critical and growing risk posed by online sales of counterfeit products, including cosmetics and personal care products. The hearing also focused on the SHOP SAFE Act, introduced last week, designed to protect consumers by stopping the online sale of harmful counterfeit products. Expert witnesses included the Personal Care Products Council’s (PCPC) Meredith Simpson, Michigan State University’s Kari Kammel, the Internet Association’s Jonathan Berroya and Foley Hoag LLP’s Natasha N. Reed.

“The Personal Care Products Council’s member companies invest substantial resources to ensure the safety and quality of their products and that those products meet federal and state safety and quality requirements,” PCPC’s Vice President, Federal Government Affairs Meredith Simpson stated in her testimony. “Counterfeit personal care products are fraud—they damage businesses, drain the economy, and most importantly, threaten consumer health and safety.”

Counterfeiting and Online Platforms Impact on Consumers and the Industry

According to a report from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the cosmetics industry loses more money to counterfeit products than any other industry, with losses reaching $5.4 billion each year to fraudulent sellers. These products sold to consumers likely do not meet the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) safety, efficacy and labeling requirements. Consumers often cannot distinguish between authentic and counterfeit products when shopping online because fraudulent sellers will use a brand’s product images and trademarks, creating confusion.

Illegally produced products do not adhere to federal or state safety and quality requirements and inherently pose health risks to consumers. Counterfeit cosmetics may be adulterated, tampered with, expired, and contain impurities or materials not of cosmetic grade. Consumers may be applying dangerous ingredients not intended for topical use directly to the skin, lips, eyes and other sensitive areas, including products indicated for children. In a January 2020 report to the President, the Department of Homeland Security noted that counterfeit cosmetics often contain arsenic, mercury, and aluminum and other contaminants, including harmful bacteria to human waste.

Industry Efforts to Mitigate Counterfeit Products on E-Commerce Platforms

At present, the burden of monitoring and enforcing against counterfeit goods on online platforms falls on the makers of the authentic products rather than on the platforms themselves. Brand owners engage directly and regularly with online platforms to address counterfeits. A single personal care product company may spend as much as $15 million annually to combat counterfeits, including monitoring the platforms and social media sites; enforcing against counterfeits through resource- and time-consuming notice and takedown processes; test buys and lab testing of purchases; and working and sharing information with competitors and federal, state, and local law enforcement. Smaller companies, however, often lack the resources needed to combat online counterfeits in the same way.

“However, despite aggressive efforts on the part of the personal care products industry to mitigate the harms of counterfeit good, too often our member companies are hindered by a lack of cooperation from the platforms and difficulty identifying sellers who can too easily hide and change their information, putting consumers at risk from these potentially dangerous products,” added Simpson.

PCPC supports establishing a framework to advance best practices for online platforms and sales to help ensure products sold on online platforms comply with U.S. laws and regulations.

Stopping Harmful Offers on Platforms by Screening Against Fakes in E-Commerce Act (SHOP SAFE)

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet Chairman Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (D-GA), Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet Ranking Member Darrell Issa (R-CA), and Representative Ben Cline (R-VA) introduced the SHOP SAFE Act in the House last week.  U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. The legislation includes many elements that PCPC members support, including:

  • Broad scope of platform definition to capture counterfeits where they are offered online, including social media;
  • Practices to prevent the occurrence of counterfeit goods before they are made available online, including:
    • Verification of seller information;
    • Displaying seller identity, location, and contact information (with exceptions for personal data); and
    • Screening for counterfeits before listing;
  • Repeat infringer policies;
  • Screening sellers to prevent terminated sellers from rejoining;
  • Provide verified information on infringing sellers to brand owners, when requested;
  • Prohibition of certain selling practices, such as the use of generic images rather than photographs of the actual item sold; and
  • Potential for liability for platforms that do not adopt the best

Simpson also suggested the Committee consider:

  • Consumer notification after a platform removes an illegal product that has been reported – consumers have a right to know they have purchased what could be a dangerous product;
  • Clarity in the legislation to ensure the processes and steps outlined in the bill work in practice for the platforms and brand owners to achieve what is intended, preventing and mitigating counterfeits getting in the hands of consumers, and;
  • Recognition that all counterfeits cause harm or have the potential to be dangerous – efforts to distinguish between those that could cause health and safety risks and those that may not could be confusing for consumers and cause impediments to effective

“We strongly support provisions in the SHOP SAFE Act that advance best practices for online platforms to help ensure that products sold on these platforms are authentic and safe,” Simpson concluded in her testimony. “We look forward to continuing our engagement with this Committee and with other stakeholders, including online platforms, government regulators and law enforcement, to advance solutions to combat counterfeit.”

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For more information about cosmetics and personal care products and their ingredients, please visit www.cosmeticsinfo.org.

Based in Washington, D.C., the Personal Care Products Council is the leading national trade association representing the global cosmetic and personal care products industry. Founded in 1894, PCPC’s 600 member companies manufacture, distribute, and supply the vast majority of finished personal care products marketed in the U.S. As the makers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day, from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance, personal care products companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

More from PCPC

The Personal Care Products Council Announces Inaugural Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Lisa Powers, (202) 297-1232, powersl@personalcarecouncil.org
Stefanie Harrington, (202) 615-6558, harringtons@personalcarecouncil.org
Jamie Kurke, (202) 454-0316, kurkej@personalcarecouncil.org  

The Personal Care Products Council Announces Inaugural
Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Beauty Industry Recognizes Latriece Watkins, EVP, Walmart, as DEI Champion

Washington, D.C. – The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is proud to announce its first annual Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to DEI through strong leadership and sustained efforts with a focus on workplace culture, programs and policies, or through external engagement with consumers and communities.

Presented at the 2021 PCPC Virtual Summit, the selection committee awarded this distinction to Latriece Watkins – executive vice president, Consumables, Walmart U.S. – in recognition of her dedication to advance DEI. Watkins is broadly recognized and admired across the industry as someone who leads with respect and lifts others. She champions DEI programs that create sustained, consistent and significant impact, both within her company and her community. PCPC’s Madam C.J. Walker Award recognizes the industry’s commitment to a more inclusive society.

“Beauty and personal care products companies are committed to helping shape a more diverse, equitable and inclusive world. This award is an opportunity to recognize peers who are ahead of the curve and leading by example,” said Keech Combe Shetty, PCPC Board chair & executive chair, Combe, Inc. “It is my distinct honor to present the first award to Latriece, a catalyst for change whose exemplary work inspires us all to do better.”

The award honors industry pioneer Madam C.J. Walker – who started her hair care business at the turn of the century, during a time when women of color had few rights and little opportunity. The Award will be given each year during PCPC’s Annual Meeting (held virtually in 2021) to an individual in the cosmetics or personal care products industry. Nominees will be judged on areas of achievement based on predetermined criteria.

“We are proud of our progress and, while we know there is more work to be done, we are fully committed to creating a more beautiful and sustainable world,” said Lezlee Westine, president & CEO, PCPC. “It is critically important that we examine society’s challenges and do what we can to address them.”

Photo: Latriece Watkins

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The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the leading national trade association representing the global cosmetics and personal care products industry. Founded in 1894, PCPC represents 600 member companies who manufacture, distribute and supply the vast majority of finished personal care products marketed in the U.S. As the makers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day, from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance, personal care products companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

For more information on cosmetics and personal care products and their ingredients, please visit www.CosmeticsInfo.org. 

 

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Study Demonstrates Environmental Risk Assessments on Coral Reefs Are Insufficient

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Stefanie Harrington, (202) 615-6558, harringtons@personalcarecouncil.org
Jamie Kurke, (202) 258-5285, kurkej@personalcarecouncil.org

Study Demonstrates Environmental Risk Assessments on Coral Reefs Are Insufficient
Researchers Find Lack of Evidence that UV Sunscreen Filters are Significantly Impacting Corals

Washington, D.C. – A newly published critical scientific review by environmental scientists from the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) Chesapeake Biological Laboratory and the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) shows that ultraviolet (UV) sunscreen filters pose a minimal risk to coral. In addition, it underscores the need for further research to allow the scientific community to form a consensus based on reliable studies.

Carys Mitchelmore, Ph.D., professor, UMCES; Emily Burns, Ph.D., environmental scientist, PCPC; Andrew Heyes, Ph.D., associate research professor, UMCES; Annaleise Conway, graduate research assistant, Chesapeake Biological Laboratory; and Iain Davies, Ph.D., director of PCPC’s environmental science programs, co-authored the study, “Organic UV Filters in the Marine Environment: A Critical Review and Analysis of Coral Exposure, Hazard and Risk,” published in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry.

Degradation of the world’s coral reefs is a serious concern and evaluating the impact of UV filters is critically important. This comprehensive review of coral toxicity data and environmental monitoring of UV filter levels near coral reefs suggests that these filters do not pose a significant risk to corals residing in marine habitats, based on current data.

“Corals are faced with multiple physical, biological and chemical stressors, and currently there is very limited scientific data on the role that UV filters have on causing harm to the reefs,” said Mitchelmore. “That is why this review is so important. Scientists from academia, government and industry need to work together to best determine which stressors are most damaging to reefs to prioritize the most effective management and regulatory actions at the local through global scales.”

The review highlights major data gaps and also data reliability issues with several high-profile coral toxicity studies that have been used to justify several recent state sunscreen/UV filter restrictions. It is important that policymakers and regulators are aware of such data deficiencies before making any future environmental management decisions. Given the limited body of science currently available, the UMCES and PCPC authors provide research recommendations that will help to provide the data needed to conduct a conclusive risk assessment and help the scientific community reach a consensus on the environmental safety of UV filters.

“It is crucial to conduct robust environmental risk assessments for UV filters, and a key part of this work is ensuring the scientific community has comprehensive, reliable datasets. PCPC’s scientists are committed to working with experts from industry, academia, government and NGOs to achieve this goal through innovative environmental research,” Davies stated.

To date, there is no convincing scientific evidence that under naturally occurring conditions, UV sunscreen filters contribute to the degradation of coral reefs. According to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Coral Reef Conservation Program, coral reefs are threatened by an increasing array of impacts – primarily climate change, disease, coastal development, and a number of chemical contaminants from agricultural and other land-based sources.

Finally, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, with one in five people in the U.S. expected to be diagnosed within their lifetime. Ninety percent of non-melanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to UV radiation from the sun. Sunscreens are a proven preventative barrier to the harmful effects of solar radiation. Making environmental impact decisions on sunscreens based on insufficient scientific data can lead to unintended health consequences, such as fewer available sunscreens and an increase in the prevalence of skin cancer.

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For more information on cosmetics and personal care products, please visit www.CosmeticsInfo.org. 

Based in Washington, D.C., the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the leading national trade association representing global cosmetics and personal care products companies. Founded in 1894, PCPC’s 600 member companies manufacture, distribute and supply the vast majority of finished personal care products marketed in the U.S. As the makers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on and trust every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance – personal care products companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

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