The NCV is the association of manufacturers and importers of cosmetics (products for personal care). This includes not only products for daily care, such as deodorant, shampoo and toothpaste, but also products that can change appearance, like make-up and hair dyes. The NCV was founded in 1950. The NCV represents the common interests of Dutch cosmetic industry (it is the voice of the industry), both at national and international level and provides a variety of services for its members. Approximately 100 companies are member. They cover almost all sectors of cosmetics, such as mass and selective brands, professional hair care, and nail care. Members are manufacturers (full members), ingredient suppliers and suppliers of services (associate members). The NCV Board is composed entirely of representatives of member companies. The Board and members of NCV fulfil a crucial role in the work of the organisation. They determine the association’s policy and play an important role in the provision of information. Most of the work of representation and services is carried out by a secretariat of 6 staff members. The focus of our work centres on scientific, regulatory and legislative issues. We have a constant dialogue with the Dutch and European (via Cosmetics Europe) Government and receive advance notice of many changes which will affect the composition, labelling, advertising claims, legal status, manufacturing and distribution of the industry's products. This information is passed on to members who in turn have an opportunity through the NCV to suggest ways in which proposals can be modified to accommodate both the regulators and industry.