NEA Expands Seal of Acceptance Program to Makeup Products
Key Takeaways
- The National Eczema Association (NEA) has expanded its Seal of Acceptance program to color cosmetics for the first time, beginning with foundation, concealer, and primer.
- IT Cosmetics, Laura Geller Beauty, Rare Beauty, and Tower 28 Beauty are the first makeup brands to have products earn the Seal in the new category.
- Products seeking the Seal undergo ingredient and formulation review and require external testing for sensitivity, irritation, and toxicity, according to NEA.
The National Eczema Association (NEA) has expanded its Seal of Acceptance program to include color cosmetics, opening the program to makeup products for the first time since the Seal was established in 2008.
The initial expansion covers base makeup products, including foundation, concealer, and primer, with additional cosmetic categories expected to follow. IT Cosmetics, Laura Geller Beauty, Rare Beauty, and Tower 28 Beauty are the first brands with makeup products to earn the Seal, according to NEA. The Seal-accepted product from IT Cosmetics is expected to become available in January 2027.
Seal Criteria Extend to Color Cosmetics
The Seal of Acceptance is intended to identify products considered suitable for people with eczema or sensitive skin based on criteria established by NEA. Products are individually evaluated by the organization's Seal Review Panel, which includes board-certified dermatologists, allergists, and eczema specialists.
The review considers clinical safety, ingredients, and formulation standards, with external testing required for sensitivity, irritation, and toxicity. According to NEA, accepted products cannot contain added fragrance, chemical UV absorbers, formaldehyde releasers, or ingredients included on the organization's Ecz-clusion List of common allergens and irritants.
“For nearly 2 decades, the Seal of Acceptance has guided people with eczema and sensitive skin in finding products that are suitable for them and their families,” Samantha Iannotti, senior director of the Seal of Acceptance at NEA, said in the announcement. “Bringing that same careful, scientific review to makeup is a natural next step.”
NEA said makeup has been among the most requested product categories from its community. The organization estimates that more than 31 million Americans live with eczema.
The addition of makeup expands a program that already evaluates products including moisturizers, sunscreens, cleansers, hair care, lip care, deodorants, over-the-counter drugs, and household and laundry products.