Guide to Entering the EU and UK MarketS

Classification

The first step is making sure your product fits the EU and UK definition of a “cosmetic.” You might be surprised to find that some everyday items we think of as cosmetics don’t fall into this category. We’re here to help you figure out if your product is indeed a cosmetic product or not.

Formula Compliance

Evaluating the formula’s composition is just as critical as determining the correct product classification. Cosmetic products must exclude all prohibited substances listed in Annex II and strictly adhere to the restrictions defined in Annex III. Additionally, they must comply with the specific regulatory requirements for colorants (Annex IV), preservatives (Annex V), and UV filters (Annex VI).

Every cosmetic product sold in the EU (or UK) must have a Product Information File (PIF) prepared before cosmetic product reaches the market. It contains key details about cosmetic product – including its formula, raw material data, test results, packaging information, and more. We can help you by checking if your current file has everything needed or creating a complete Product Information File for your product.

The Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR) is an essential document compiling comprehensive safety data of your cosmetic product. The cosmetic product safety assessment, as set out in EU Regulation 1223/2009 (Part B of Annex  I), must be prepared by qualified safety assessor and included in the Product Information File (PIF).

Cosmetic products sold in the EU (as well as UK) need to meet specific labeling requirements. This means that some information must be clearly shown on the packaging, while other information is not even allowed. Both parts are equally important to make sure your product is compliant. We simplify the process by guiding you through all labelling requirements, reviewing your labels for accuracy, and ensuring full compliance.

The last step before placing the cosmetic product on the market is to notify your product through the CPNP (Cosmetic Products Notification Portal) for EU market and the SCPN (Submit Cosmetic Product Notifications) for UK market. These online portals let you upload key details about your cosmetic product that is used for market surveillance, market analysis, evaluation and quick access for authorities like poison centers.

Each product placed on the EU and UK market needs to have an EU/UK based Responsible person (RP) assigned. Responsible person’s main task is to ensure compliance of the cosmetic products with the EU regulation 1223/2009 or UK Schedule 34 to the Product Safety and Metrology etc. (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.

To ensure consumer safety and regulatory compliance, cosmetic products must undergo a series of laboratory tests before entering the market. These tests verify that formulas remain stable, free from harmful pathogens, and safe throughout their intended shelf life.