Halachot and Customs
Is Kosher Certification Needed for Cosmetics?
Can Non-Kosher Ingredients Be Used in Cosmetics?
Question
Hello Rabbi,
Do cosmetics require kosher certification as a matter of halacha? (Creams, makeup, etc.)
I am asking because sometimes there are products that contain non-kosher ingredients.... I have simply become confused... because some of what I read online was about kosher certification and some about a general prohibition of benefit... and I am unable to understand.
It should be taken into account that we do not always even know what the products are made from.... and it is not so simple or possible to start investigating every product...
Is it possible to buy everything without concern and without checking the products? And if a non-kosher ingredient is known - is it permitted to buy it as a matter of halacha?
Thank you very much!!!
Answer
Hello,
All cosmetic products that are not fit for eating are permitted for use even if it is known that they contain a non-kosher substance.
Sources: See Responsa Yechaveh Da'at, volume 4 (siman 43).
With blessings,
Hillel Meirs
