Regulatory information for cosmetics
All cosmetics sold in Canada must be safe to use and must not pose any health risk. They must meet the requirements of the Food and Drugs Act and the Cosmetic Regulations.
On this page
Cosmetics legislation
Under the Food and Drugs Act, a cosmetic includes "any substance or mixture of substances, manufactured, sold or represented for use in cleansing, improving or altering the complexion, skin, hair or teeth and includes deodorants and perfumes." This includes:
- cosmetics used by professional esthetic services
- bulk institutional products such as hand soap in school rest rooms
- "handmade" cosmetics sold through home-based businesses or craft sales
The Cosmetic Regulations and the Food and Drugs Act require that cosmetics sold in Canada are manufactured, prepared, preserved, packed and stored under sanitary conditions. The manufacturer and importer must:
- provide a list of the product's ingredients
- notify Health Canada that they are selling the product
All cosmetics must also follow the requirements outlined in the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act and its associated Regulations. Any chemicals found in cosmetics may be subject to the Canadian Environmental Protection Act.
Guidance documents
General
- Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
- Guidance Document: Classification of Products at the Cosmetic-Drug Interface
- Guide to Completing Cosmetic Notification Forms
- Product Assessment Against Criteria: Antiperspirants
- Product Assessment Against Criteria: Diaper Rash Products
- Guidelines for Volatile Organic Compounds in Consumer Products
- Heavy Metals in Cosmetics
- Advance notice of importation process for cosmetics and drugs
Labelling
- Guide to Cosmetic Ingredient Labelling
- Guide to the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act and Regulations
- Labelling of Cosmetics
- Labelling Requirements for Cosmetics in Pressurized Containers
- Guidelines for the non-prescription and cosmetic industry regarding non-therapeutic advertising and labelling claims
Test Method
Related links
Other legislation and guidance that may apply to cosmetics and cosmetic ingredients:
Report a problem or mistake on this page
- Date modified: