CIR is an independent expert panel that reviews published scientific literature to assess the safety of cosmetic ingredients. The panel issues findings of Safe, Safe with Qualifications, Unsafe, or Insufficient Data. Reviews follow a structured process: priority list, scientific literature review, tentative report, public comment period, and final report. Each ingredient assessment typically spans 1-2 years.
Personal Care Products Council (industry trade group)
CIR is funded entirely by the Personal Care Products Council, the cosmetics industry trade group, raising questions about independence. Critics note that CIR has found very few ingredients to be unsafe, and that reviews can lag years behind emerging research. Environmental groups argue its scope is too narrow and its process too slow. Defenders point to the expert panel's scientific credentials and the public comment process as safeguards.
Funded by Personal Care Products Council (cosmetics industry trade group)