Helping you understand soap and cosmetic regulations — in plain English.
Hi, I’m Marie Gale.
For over 15 years I’ve been researching and following the world of laws, regulations, standards and guidelines for the handcrafted soap and cosmetic industry. What started as a personal quest to understand soap and cosmetic labeling for my own products has grown into a deep understanding of the myriad of requirements that handcrafted soap and cosmetics makers are subject to.
My personal passion to assist others to understand and follow the labeling and other requirements grew out of all that research. If I had my way, no handcrafter would ever experience the stress and heartache of unwittingly running afoul of the the laws and regulations.
There is peace of mind in knowing that you are compliant with the applicable regulations. I’m here to help you achieve that stress-free relationship with your products and your business.
Whether you know it or not, you’ve been an invaluable resource for me throughout our years in business as I’ve relied on your many books whenever I have questions. I’ve recently purchased “Navigating the Rules & Regulations” and am going through it with tabs & a highlighter and am learning more than I ever expected. — Julia
Latest blog articles
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When a Link Becomes a Claim
Another website can legally say things about your ingredients that you can’t. Link to it and those claims may become yours. Here’s why.
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Fragrance Allergen Update
There is some news on the Fragrance Allergen front! Finally.
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Louisiana Love for Cottage Cosmetic Makers
Making cosmetics (legally) in Louisiana just got a whole lot easier. You don’t have to fly under the radar anymore!
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One Small Thing Your Beautiful Label Might Be Missing
Beautiful soaps, gorgeous packaging — but one required label element keeps showing up missing or too small. It’s an easy fix.
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A Fun Look At Soap
Making soap and cosmetics isn’t all about lawsuits and regulations … it’s also about the art, creation, and chemistry. Let’s step away from the rules and regs for a bit and look into the fascinating world of soap chemistry
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You Make It Here, Why Isn’t It “Made in USA”?
Mixed and poured in the US, but using Shea butter from West Africa. Lavender from Provence. Vanilla from Madagascar. Can you really claim ‘Made in USA’?
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When Your Label Gets You Sued
The front label says sea salt and eucalyptus. The ingredient declaration lists “Fragrance.” The lawsuit alleges false claims. What does it mean?
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What is a “Good” Label?
A good label isn’t just pretty — it’s compliant, effective, and truly yours. Here’s how to tell the difference.
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![FDA Postmarket Regulation of Cosmetic Products [Video]](https://www.mariegale.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/FDA-Grand-Rounds-2026-02-05.webp)
FDA Postmarket Regulation of Cosmetic Products [Video]
This month the FDA Grand Rounds focused on MoCRA: “Postmarket Regulation of Cosmetic Products: The Who, What, Where, When, Why and How.”
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Cause Marketing for the Holiday Season
The holiday shopping season is a perfect time to showcase your products AND your values. That makes cause marketing an appealing option for both customers and marketers.
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Labeling: Gift Baskets & Sets
Gift baskets are great product opportunities, but they have label requirements, just like any other product.
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GMP: Tracking Ingredients
Tracking ingredients through every step — from specifications and suppliers to receiving and use — is a core part of GMP. Here’s how to make it simple, sustainable, and fit into your workflow.
Books
