When Cosmetic Claims Cross the Line

Not all cosmetic products sold in Canada — including those available online — are what they claim to be. Some products make therapeutic or medicinal claims that go beyond what a cosmetic is permitted to do under Canadian law. Others may contain undisclosed ingredients that pose serious health risks.

What Makes a Claim “Dubious”?

Under Health Canada’s cosmetic regulations, a cosmetic product is defined as a substance used to cleanse, improve, or alter the appearance of the body. Cosmetics are not permitted to claim they treat, cure, or prevent disease or alter body function — those are drug claims.

Examples of claims that may cross into drug or therapeutic territory include:

• “antibacterial” or “antifungal”
• “treats eczema” or “relieves psoriasis”
• “anti-inflammatory”
• “vitamins nourish deeper skin tissue”
• “promotes collagen production”

Products making these types of claims without proper regulatory classification may be improperly marketed under Canadian law.

Adulterated Products: A Real Risk

Health Canada periodically identifies cosmetic and health products that contain undisclosed potent ingredients — including steroids, heavy metals such as mercury or arsenic, and prescription-strength compounds. These adulterants are not listed on the label and cannot be identified by consumers without laboratory testing.

Vulnerable populations including infants, young children, and the elderly face heightened risk from adulterated products.

Where the Risk Is Greatest

Products purchased from unverified online sources, international platforms, or sellers without an established Canadian presence carry higher risk. Health Canada’s Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF) system requires manufacturers and importers to register products before sale — products without CNF filings may not have undergone any regulatory review.

What to Look For

When purchasing cosmetic products, consider:

• Whether the product is sold by a verifiable Canadian business
• Whether claims seem too good to be true or promise medical results
• Whether the ingredient list is complete and legible
• Whether the manufacturer can provide proof of Health Canada CNF filing

Our Commitment

At Welcome to Natural, we believe in transparent, evidence-based communication about what our products do and do not do. Our potato soap is a cleansing bar — we don’t make therapeutic claims, and we don’t use undisclosed ingredients. What’s on the label is what’s in the bar.

This article is based on publicly available Health Canada guidance and cosmetic regulatory standards.