For more than 50 years, Happi has been the voice of the global household and personal products industry. During all this time, we’ve presented views from reputable raw material suppliers, small and large finished product formulators and, of course, leading regulatory bodies in the US, EU and around the world.

In recent years, non-government organizations have demanded a seat at the negotiating table and whether industry likes it or not, NGOs are now elbow-to-elbow with all of these suppliers, formulators and regulators. Nothing new, there. But it is interesting when perceived adversaries are seeking the same thing in all of their negotiating.

This month, Christine Esposito reports on the latest issues surrounding the multibillion-dollar sun care sector. In interviews with the Environmental Working Group, EWG’s Nneka Leiba noted, “What needs to happen is for FDA to approve more sunscreen ingredients.”

Now, wouldn’t it be nice if the US Food and Drug Administration could join with the personal care industry and watchdog groups and get on the same page and approve the eight sunscreen ingredients that have been under review for more than a decade?

One-time adversaries are working together in the household space, too, as noted in our coverage of the American Cleaning Institute’s annual meeting. But all of the bonne humeur could dissolve quickly if there isn’t real movement on the regulatory front.

This issue of Happi also includes our annual look at the OTC sector, where certain categories such as skin care are getting a lift from the difficult-to-navigate prescription drug business. Rather than wait for high-priced prescriptions from their dermatologists or GPs, consumers are taking the do-it-yourself approach and discovering remedies right on-shelf.

This issue also includes an update on the newest lineup of color cosmetic offerings from leading beauty brands. Eyebrow colors are making gains, while the rest of the segment is slowing, according to Melissa Meisel.

At the end of this month, the Happi team is heading to In-Cosmetics Global in Paris. If you’ll be at the biggest trade show in our industry, be sure to stop by stand S10 to connect and share your story—we love hearing from you in person, via email or even a tweet!

Tom Branna
Editorial Director
[email protected]