Regulatory Authorities For Cosmetics Worldwide
Despite being meant exclusively for external use, most countries across the world of Oceania regulate cosmetic products. Formulators, manufacturers, and cosmetic brand owners must register the products with the regulators of their respective countries to sell the products. Here is a brief overview of the agencies in different countries.
Food & Drug Administration (FDA) of the USA
The FDA is responsible for overseeing the regulatory aspects of cosmetic products across America following the North America Cosmetic Regulations. The regulation is also applicable to cosmetic products imported into the country for commercial purposes. Besides FDA, some states like California have their regulatory framework.
Health Canada
Cosmetic product producers in Canada must comply with the laws of the land governed by Health Canada, the regulatory authority for pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. The regulatory framework adapts many rules and regulations of the US and European Union.
Cofepris, Mexico
The Federal Commission for the Prevention of Sanitary Risks (Cofepris) is the Mexican regulatory authority for cosmetic products. The agency follows two standards regarding ingredients and product labeling – NOM 259 and NOM 159 for perfumes, cosmetics, and personal care products.
Cosmetics Directive of the European Commission
The Cosmetics Directive 76/768/EC is the guiding document for regulating cosmetic and personal care products across the EU which includes 28 countries. The laws are more detailed than the US FDA and focus mainly on the active ingredients.
INMETRO, Brazil
INMETRO is the regulatory authority in Brazil for cosmetic products and the laws are quite complicated. INMETRO published a document to help formulators comprehend the laws better.
ANMAT, Argentina
ANMAT is the name of the regulatory author of Argentina that governs the manufacturing and selling of cosmetic products in the country.
CTFA, South Africa
The Cosmetics, Toiletries and Fragrance Association of South Africa is an industry organization responsible for implementing laws to regulate cosmetic products.
China FDA
The Food & Drug Administration has the authority in China to regulate cosmetic products produced and imported within the country.
Department of Health and Family Welfare, India
The Department of Health and Family Welfare is responsible for implementing the food, drug, and cosmetic act through the office of the Drug Controller of India.
Ministry of Health, Japan
The Ministry of Health regulates cosmetics and personal care products that are available across the country.
Department of Health, Australia
The Department of Health follows a regulatory framework similar to the US and the EU for regulating cosmetic products.