Finnish Customs has highlighted significant ambiguities regarding the composition of cosmetic products that are entering the Finnish market from outside the European Union. Last year, customs officials monitored the compliance of 155 different cosmetic products, and they rejected 27 items due to violations, with 23 of these products originating from outside the EU. This raised alarms over the safety and reliability of such products, especially given that consumers often shop online for cosmetics without the stringent oversight typically applied to goods imported by retailers.

Among the rejected items were prevalent products like sunscreens, makeup, and hair removal products, which often contain ingredients subject to strict regulations in the EU. Of the 155 products examined, 21 were found to have minor violations, with 18 of these again coming from outside the EU. This situation poses a challenge for Finnish consumers who may not be fully aware of the potential risks associated with such cosmetic products available through online marketplaces, which are not monitored in the same manner as imports made directly by businesses.

Authorities emphasize the need for regulation and better consumer awareness, particularly as the popularity of online shopping continues to rise. The lack of oversight on direct consumer purchases may result in consumers inadvertently using unsafe or non-compliant products, prompting calls for stricter controls and more robust consumer education. Overall, this report from Customs serves as a significant reminder of the complexities involved in ensuring safety and compliance in the global trade of personal care items.