CPSR by product type
CPSR for body oils and balms
Oils, balms and butters contain no water, so germs are rarely the issue. Instead we focus on rancidity (oils going off), essential oil levels and allergens.
At a glance
Body oils and balms at a glance
This page covers: Body oil, beard oil, massage oil, whipped butter, balm, salve, cuticle oil, solid perfume.
Typical for this type of product, not an assessment of your recipe. Skip to what to send
Documents
What to send us
- Your full recipe with exact percentages and INCI namesNeeded to start
- Supplier specifications and safety data sheets for each oil and butterNeeded to start
- IFRA certificate and allergen breakdown for each essential oil or fragranceIf it applies
- Draft label and packaging detailsNeeded to start
- Any stability or shelf life observationsHelpful extra
Missing something? Send what you have and we will tell you what else is needed. See the full checklist
Which package
Does it fit our fixed prices?
Usually yes
Most water-free oils, balms and butters with straightforward recipes fit Essential, Filed or Range of 5.
Essential £99 + VAT (£118.80 inc VAT), Filed £139 + VAT (£166.80 inc VAT, we submit your SCPN), Range of 5 £595 + VAT (£714 inc VAT). See prices
Good to know
- Nappy balms or anything for babies under 3 are not taken at launch.
- Claims to treat eczema, pain or other conditions can bring it under medicines rules.
- Aromatherapy blends sold for inhalation only are not cosmetics.
What we check
What makes body oils and balms different
Rancidity
Plant oils oxidise over time. We look at your oil choice, any antioxidant such as vitamin E, packaging and the shelf life you give.
Essential oil levels
In a leave-on product essential oils stay on the skin, so safe levels are usually lower than in soap. We check GB restrictions, relevant IFRA standards and the evidence.
Allergens on the label
Allergens such as linalool and limonene must be named on the label when they exceed 0.001% in a leave-on product.
Phototoxic citrus oils
Some cold-pressed citrus oils, such as bergamot, can cause skin reactions in sunlight. These have strict limits.
Low microbial risk
With no water, a challenge test is usually not needed. The report records why, and considers whether the product could get wet in use.
Texture and stability
Butters can go grainy and balms can soften in heat. We consider how it is stored and sold.
Questions
Body oils and balms: common questions
Does a balm need a challenge test?
Usually not. With no water present the microbial risk is low, and the assessor can normally justify this in the report. If the product is likely to get wet in use, we consider that.
Is beard oil a cosmetic?
Yes. Beard oil is applied to the hair and skin to keep them in good condition, so it is a cosmetic and needs a CPSR before you sell it.
How much essential oil can I use?
It depends on the oil, the product type and where it is used. Some oils and their constituents have IFRA standards or legal restrictions, and some cause sensitisation or reactions in sunlight. Your assessment checks every oil for your product.
Ready to get your body oils and balms assessed?
Join the waitlist and we will email you once when orders open. No payment today.