Tattooing is now a true form of artistic and personal expression. As it has grown in popularity, so too has the range of products designed to care for tattooed skin, accompanied by promises that can sometimes be difficult to interpret.

Moisturising, protecting, soothing, repairing, healing: these terms refer to different functions, which do not necessarily fall into the same regulatory categories.

At DermaTattoo®, we attach particular importance to the precision of the language we use to describe our products. An informed consumer is one who can make an informed choice.

Cosmetic, medicine or medical device: what is the difference?

In the European Union, cosmetic products are governed by Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.

A cosmetic product is intended, in particular, to be placed in contact with the superficial parts of the human body for the purpose of cleansing, protecting, modifying their appearance or maintaining them in good condition.

Medicines and medical devices are subject to different definitions and regulations, depending in particular on their intended purpose and mode of action.

These distinctions are important in the field of tattooing, as freshly tattooed skin has particular characteristics.

A cosmetic product must not be presented as a medical treatment if it does not have that status.

Why do some promises deserve particular attention?

In the field of aftercare for tattoos, several terms should be used with care.

Healing and wound repair

Healing refers to a natural biological process that occurs after a skin injury.

When a product promises to treat a wound or speed up its healing, its claimed purpose may fall under a different regulatory framework from that of cosmetics.

Antiseptic and antibacterial actions

These terms may correspond to different functions depending on how they are used.

A promise to disinfect or prevent infection should not be equated with a simple cosmetic action of cleansing or caring for the skin.

Anti-inflammatory actions

A claim to treat inflammation should not be confused with a cosmetic claim of skin comfort.

A cosmetic product may, in particular, be presented for its moisturising properties or for the comfort it provides, provided that these effects are properly supported.

The challenge, therefore, is not only to choose the right words, but to ensure that each claim genuinely reflects the nature and proven properties of the product.

Cosmetic claims governed by precise rules

European Regulation (EU) No 655/2013 sets out six common criteria applicable to claims relating to cosmetic products:

• Compliance with legislation

• Truthfulness of the information

• Existence of supporting evidence

• Honesty of the claims

• Fairness towards other products

• Clarity of the information, enabling consumers to make an informed decision

These requirements apply to labels, product information sheets, advertising and commercial communications.

Information must be consistent with the actual characteristics of the product and the available supporting evidence.

The DermaTattoo® approach: prioritising precision and transparency

At DermaTattoo®, our approach is to present our products while remaining mindful of their true cosmetic function.

We prioritise communication focused on formulation, texture, application methods and justifiable cosmetic benefits.

Our goal is to provide tattooed people with clear information so they can choose and use their products under appropriate conditions.

We believe that the quality of information is an integral part of the quality of the relationship between a brand and its customers.

This commitment also leads us to distinguish between the cosmetic care of tattooed skin and situations that require medical advice.

Understanding better to choose better

The terms used to describe a product are never insignificant.

Learning about a product's status, functions, composition and conditions of use helps to better understand what can realistically be expected from it.

At DermaTattoo®, we wish to contribute to this by prioritising clear, measured and well-documented communication.

Because taking care of your skin also begins with understanding the products you use.

Regulatory references

• Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products, in particular Articles 2 and 20.

• Regulation (EU) No 655/2013 laying down common criteria for cosmetic product claims.

• Regulation (EU) 2017/745 on medical devices, in particular Article 2.

• Directorate-General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF): information on cosmetic products and claims.