Time to Clean Out the Bathroom Cabinet

Updated: 9:40 a.m. ET March 11, 2005

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - It's time to clear out the bathroom cabinet of old cosmetics, sunscreen and beauty creams.

From March 11, all products sold in the European Union will carry a label telling the consumer how long the product will last once opened, the EU executive Commission said on Friday.

The legislation applies to all creams and make-up lasting for more than 30 months which can deteriorate after opening, potentially harming consumers.

"This information will be labeled on products by means of a symbol representing an open beauty cream jar followed by the period of use after opening," the European Commission said in a statement.

Under the rules, 26 potential allergy-triggering substances used to perfume cosmetics will also be labeled.

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