Language selection

Government of Canada / Gouvernement du Canada

Search

Industry Guide for the labelling of cosmetics

Table of contents

Foreword

This guide is designed to assist in the preparation of labels that comply with Canadian regulatory requirements for cosmetics. The guide contains:

  • a description of the Acts and Regulations from which the labelling requirements for cosmetics are derived,
  • definitions of terms,
  • current interpretations of labelling requirements based on legal precedents and advisory opinions established over a number of years, and
  • sources of further information.

A label should convey its information in a manner that is easily read and understood. It should be noted that certain information on a label is considered essential; information of this type is pointed out in this guide. To ensure that all aspects of labelling are addressed, this guide should be used in conjunction with the appropriate Acts and Regulations. Other requirements are covered only briefly in this guide.

1. Introduction

The labelling of cosmetics is governed by two Acts and their associated Regulations:

Manufacturers and importers should review and understand the Acts and Regulations to ensure that they comply with all requirements. For example, every manufacturer and every importer is required to submit a completed Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF) to Health Canada within 10 days for each cosmetic the manufacturer intends to sell in Canada (section 30, CR). Submission of the CNF does not constitute approval for sale by Health Canada, agreement that the product is classified as a cosmetic nor that the product complies with all legislative requirements. Manufacturers and importers are responsible for making sure their cosmetics meet the requirements of the FDA and its CR, as well as the CPLA.

Supplementary French language labelling requirements may apply to products sold in the Province of Québec (to obtain more information, see section 9.8, "French Language Requirements").

1.1 The Food and Drugs Act (FDA) and the Cosmetic Regulations (CR)

The FDA and the CR govern the classification and labelling of cosmetic products, including:

  • expression of the product's identity on its label,
  • contact information where consumers can direct their questions about the cosmetic,
  • listing of ingredients on the label, and
  • avoidable hazards presented by the cosmetic.

In addition, the Act and Regulations address the issues of composition, safety, and advertising.

The CR under the FDA allow a designated Health Canada inspector to inspect:

  • cosmetic products,
  • locations where cosmetics are manufactured or stored, and
  • any labelling or advertising material related to a cosmetic product.

The CR also prescribe the symbols and warning statements that are to be used on pressurized containers, as defined in the Consumer Chemicals and Containers Regulations, as they read on September 30, 2001.

As of December 23, 2023, legislation to ban cosmetic animal testing came into force. This includes legislation on the use of claims on labels and in advertising regarding the absence of animal testing. For more information, see the guidance on cosmetic animal testing.

1.2 The Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act (CPLA) and Regulations

The CPLA and Regulations prescribe the mandatory information that must appear on the label of a pre-packaged cosmetic product which includes the:

  • product's identification in English and French,
  • declaration of the product's net quantity in metric units of measure in English and French, and
  • identity and principal place of business of the dealer (see definition) in English or French.

The Act and Regulations also address false or misleading representation of the product and the standardization of container size.

The CPLA and Regulations govern only those cosmetic products sold to consumers. Unlike the FDA and CR, it does not govern cosmetics applied by cosmeticians, hairdressers, etc., to their clients unless such persons sell the cosmetics to their clients as pre-packaged products.

For further information on the requirements of the CPLA and Regulations, please contact the Competition Bureau Canada (see "Sources of Additional Information" for contact information).

1.3 Advertising clearance

Ad Standards has been providing advertising clearance since 1992, when Health Canada transferred this function to the organization. Ad Standards reviews cosmetic broadcast advertising copy to ensure compliance with the Guidelines for the Nonprescription and Cosmetic Industry Regarding Non-therapeutic Advertising and Labelling Claims.

The Guidelines for the Nonprescription and Cosmetic Industry Regarding Non-therapeutic Advertising and Labelling Claims were developed to help marketers differentiate non-therapeutic claims from therapeutic/health claims that require authorization from Health Canada and is used by Ads Standards to provide cosmetic broadcast advertising copy preclearance services.

Complaints about print advertising are investigated by the Competition Bureau Canada under the authority of the Competition Act.

1.4 Information on labels

This guide covers three aspects of information appearing on the labels of cosmetic products:

  • the classification of cosmetic products (see section 3).
  • required declarations that must appear on a label. These include:
    1. product identity (see section 4),
    2. net quantity (see section 5),
    3. contact information where consumers can direct their questions about the cosmetic (see section 6),
    4. identity and principal place of business of the dealer (see section 6)
    5. avoidable hazards and cautions (see section 7), and
    6. ingredients (see section 8).
  • sources of additional information concerning labelling requirements (see section 9).

2. Definitions

The following definitions may be useful.

Area of display panel - Section 2 of the Consumer Chemicals and Containers Regulations, as they read on September 30, 2001 - The area of the container's side or surface that contains the display panel. This area does not include the top, bottom, flanges, shoulders, or neck of the container. The area is calculated

  1. For rectangular containers, by multiplying the height of the side that includes the display panel by the width of that side.
  2. For cylindrical containers, by taking 40 percent of the number obtained by multiplying the container's circumference by its height.
    NOTE:
    • Circumference = 3.14 x diameter of container
    • Circumference = 6.28 x radius of container
  3. For an unfolded bag, by determining the area of the largest side.
  4. For any other container, by taking 40 percent of the total surface area of the container (or the total surface area of the display panel, if the container has an obvious one).

Avoidable hazard - Subsection 24(2) of the Cosmetic Regulations - A threat of injury to the health of the user of a cosmetic that can be

  1. predicted from the cosmetic's composition, the toxicology of its ingredients and the site of its application;
  2. reasonably anticipated during normal use; and
  3. eliminated by specified limitations on the usage of the cosmetic.

Canadian unit - Subsection 2(1) of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Regulations - A unit of measurement set out in Schedule II to the Weights and Measures Act. For example, a metric unit.

Container - Section 2 of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act - A receptacle, package, wrapper or confining band in which a product is offered for sale but does not include package liners or shipping containers or any outer wrapping or box that is not customarily displayed to the consumer.

Cosmetic - Section 2 of the Food and Drugs Act - 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.

Dealer - Section 2 of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act - A person who is a retailer, manufacturer, processor or producer of a product, or a person who is engaged in the business of importing, packaging or selling any product.

Declaration of net quantity - Subsection 4(1) of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act – It is prohibited to sell, import or advertise any pre-packaged product unless the label contains a declaration of net quantity of the product in the form and manner required, such as the amount of product contained in the package expressed in numerical count or as a unit of measurement.

Drug - Section 2 of the Food and Drugs Act - Includes any substance or mixture of substances manufactured, sold or represented for use in:

  1. the diagnosis, treatment, mitigation or prevention of a disease, disorder or abnormal physical state, or its symptoms, in human beings or animals;
  2. restoring, correcting or modifying organic functions in human beings or animals, or
  3. disinfection in premises in which food is manufactured, prepared, or kept.

European restricted substances list – As referred in Subsection 21.4 (0.1) of the Cosmetic Regulations - Means Annex III, titled List of Substances Which Cosmetic Products Must Not Contain Except Subject To The Restrictions Laid Down, of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on cosmetic products, published by the European Union on its website, as amended from time to time.

Fragrance allergen – As referred in Subsection 21.4 (0.1) of the Cosmetic Regulations - Means a fragrance or flavour that can cause an allergic reaction and that is included in the European Restricted Substances List and for which the restrictions set out in column h of that list provide that its presence must be indicated in a cosmetic's list of ingredients.

Identity - As referred in Paragraph 20(b) of the Cosmetic Regulations - The identity of the cosmetic in terms of its common or generic name (e.g. shampoo) or a statement in terms of its function (e.g. body scrub) must be indicated on the label.

If the identity of a cosmetic is obvious, it does not have to be indicated. (This exception is not noted in the definition of identity that appears in Subparagraph 10(b) (ii) of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act.)

Identity and principal place of business: Subparagraph 10(b)(i) of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act - The identity and principal place of business of the person by or for whom the prepackaged product was manufactured or produced for resale must be shown on the label.

The address must be sufficiently complete to allow postal delivery to the principal place of business

Importer - Subsection 2(1) of the Cosmetic Regulations - Means a person who imports a cosmetic into Canada for the purpose of selling it.

INCI Name - Subsection 2(1) of the Cosmetic Regulations - The INCI name means the International Nomenclature for Cosmetic Ingredient name assigned to an ingredient in the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook published by the Personal Care Products Council on its website, as amended from time to time.

INCI is the acceptable terminology for listing ingredients on the label. The INCI names do not need to be provided on the label in both French and English according to subsection 18(a) of the Cosmetic Regulations.

Ingredient - Subsection 2(1) of the Cosmetic Regulations - An ingredient means any substance that is one of the components of a cosmetic and includes colouring agents, botanicals, fragrance and flavour, but does not include substances that are used in the preparation of the cosmetic but that are not present in the final product as a result of the chemical process.

Inner label - Subsection 2(1) of the Cosmetic Regulations - A label on or affixed to the immediate container of a cosmetic.

Label - Section 2 of the Food and Drugs Act - Includes any legend, word or mark attached to, included in, belonging to or accompanying any food, drug, cosmetic, device or package. As per subsection 2(1) of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act, a label is also defined as any label, mark, sign, device, imprint, stamp, brand, ticket or tag.

Leave-on product – Subsection 2(1) of the Cosmetic Regulations – Means any cosmetic that is intended to stay in prolonged contact with the skin, hair or mucous membranes.

Manufacturer – Subsection 2(1) of the Cosmetic Regulations – In respect of a cosmetic, means one of the following persons:

  1. a person in Canada who sells the cosmetic under the person's own name or under a trademark, design, trade name or other name or mark owned or controlled by the person; or
  2. a person in Canada who is authorized to act in Canada on behalf of another person who is not in Canada, if the other person sells the cosmetic under the other person's own name or under a trademark, design, trade name or other name or mark owned or controlled by the other person.

Application

2.1 If, in respect of a cosmetic, no person meets the definition "manufacturer", a reference in these Regulations to "manufacturer" is to be read as a reference to:

  1. an importer of the cosmetic; or
  2. if no person meets the definition of "importer", any person that manufactures or processes the cosmetic in Canada on behalf of another person.

Metric unit - Subsection 2(1) of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Regulations – A unit of measurement as set out in Schedule I to the Weights and Measures Act.

Natural health product - Under the Food and Drugs Act, a natural health product means a substance set out in Schedule 1 or a combination of substances in which all the medicinal ingredients are substances set out in Schedule 1, a homeopathic medicine or a traditional medicine, that is manufactured, sold or represented for use in:

  1. the diagnosis, treatment, mitigation or prevention of a disease, disorder or abnormal physical state or its symptoms in humans;
  2. restoring or correcting organic functions in humans; or
  3. modifying organic functions in humans.

However, a natural health product does not include a substance set out in Schedule 2of the Natural Health Products Regulations (NHPR), any combination of substances that includes a substance set out in Schedule 2 or a homeopathic medicine or a traditional medicine that is or includes a substance set out in Schedule 2.

Ornamental container - Subsection 2(1) of the Cosmetic Regulations - A container that, except on the bottom, does not have any promotional or advertising material on it other than a trademark or common name, and that appears to be a decorative ornament because of a design that is on its surface or because of its shape or texture, and is sold as a decorative ornament in addition to being sold as the container of a cosmetic. An example would be a perfume bottle without a box, that is artistically designed in such a way as to be decorative or ornamental.

Outer label - Subsection 2(1) of the Cosmetic Regulations - A label on or affixed to the outside package of a cosmetic.

The outer label is often described as the carton label (i.e., a label on a box containing a bottle of a cosmetic).

Prepackaged product - Paragraph 2(1) of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act - Any product that is packaged in a container in such a manner that it is ordinarily sold to or used or purchased by a consumer without being re-packaged.

Principal display panel - Subsection 2(2) of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Regulations. The part of the label that,

  1. in the case of a container that is mounted on a display card, that part of the label applied to all or part of the principal display surface of the container or to all or part of the side of the display card that is displayed or visible under normal or customary conditions of sale or use or to both such parts of the container and the display card,
  2. in the case of an ornamental container, that part of the label applied to all or part of the bottom of the container or to all or part of the principal display surface or to all or part of a tag that is attached to the container and
  3. in the case of all other containers, that part of the label applied to all or part of the principal display surface.

Section 2 of the Consumer Chemicals and Containers Regulations, as they read on September 30, 2001 - The part of a container that is displayed or visible under normal or customary conditions of display or use.

Principal display surface - Subsection 2(1) of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Regulations - There are six cases:

  1. in the case of a container that has a side or surface that is displayed or visible under normal or customary conditions of sale or use, the total area of such side or surface excluding the top, if any;
  2. in the case of a container that has a lid that is the part of the container displayed or visible under normal or customary conditions of sale or use, the total area of the top surface of the lid;
  3. in the case of a container that does not have a particular side or surface that is displayed or visible under normal or customary conditions of sale or use, any 40 per cent of the total surface area of the container, excluding the top and bottom, if any, if such 40 per cent can be displayed or visible under normal or customary conditions of sale or use,
  4. in the case of a container that is a bag with sides of equal dimensions, the total area of one of the sides;
  5. in the case of a container that is a bag with sides of more than one size, the total area of one of the largest sides;
  6. in the case of a container that is a wrapper or confining band that is so narrow in relation to the size of the product contained that it cannot reasonably be said to have any side or surface that is displayed or visible under normal or customary conditions of sale or use, the total area of one side of a ticket or tag attached to such container; and,
  7. despite paragraphs (a) to (f) of this definition, in the case of a container of wine in which the wine is displayed for sale to consumers, any part of the surface of the container, excluding its top and bottom, that can be seen without having to turn the container. 

Rinse-off product – Subsection 2(1) of the Cosmetic Regulations - Means any cosmetic that is intended to be removed after application to the skin, hair or mucous membranes.

Security packaging - Subsection 2(1) of the Cosmetic Regulations - A package having a security feature that provides reasonable assurance to consumers that the package has not been opened prior to purchase.

3. Cosmetic classification and cosmetic claims

The classification of a product is based on the overall representation of the product, in combination with the composition of the product. This section provides some current practices in classification.

3.1 Cosmetic classification

The classification of cosmetics is based on two main factors:

  • composition of the product, and
  • representations made about the product.

This subsection also outlines the current status of specific products. Further information may be found in the Guidance Document: Classification of Products at the Cosmetic-Drug Interface.

3.1.1 Composition

The composition of a product alone does not necessarily determine its classification. However, it is possible that an ingredient, or the concentration of an ingredient, may make the product unsuitable for classification as a cosmetic.

3.1.2 Representation

The key consideration for the classification of a product is its proposed claim(s), defined in the Act as "representation for sale". A claim can be a word, a sentence, a picture, a symbol, a paragraph or an implication on product labels, package inserts or advertisements, including company websites. Together, these claims are used to create a net impression of what the product is and does. For examples of non-therapeutic/cosmetic claims for cosmetic products, please see the document Guidelines for the Nonprescription and Cosmetic Industry Regarding Non-therapeutic Advertising and Labelling Claims.

4. Product identity

For reasons such as health, safety, product comparison, and prevention of fraud, the identity of a cosmetic product must be evident to the user when purchasing it and continue to be identifiable after any outer packaging has been removed.

All information presented on a label must appear in such a manner that it can be easily read.

The manner in which the requirements are applied depends on the two situations described below:

  • products that have both outer and inner labels (e.g., a bottle packaged in a box has two labels; the box bears the outer label, and the bottle bears the inner label), and
  • products that have an inner label only (e.g., a bottle of shampoo that is not packaged in a box has an inner label only on the bottle).

4.1 Products that have both outer and inner labels

For products that have both outer and inner labels, specific requirements apply to each type of label.

4.1.1 Outer label requirements

On the outer label, the declaration of product identity must appear in both English and French on the principal display panel. The declaration must clearly contrast both with the background of the label and all the other information on the label.

Single expressions

Certain expressions are considered officially bilingual in themselves, such as "parfum," "eau de toilette," or "cologne."

Additional panels

The labels of some pre-packaged products are composed of one or more additional panels of the same size and prominence as the principal display panel. The product identity may be given on the principal display panel in only one of the two official languages, provided that it is also given in the other language on one of the other panels.

Typeface

There is no restriction concerning the typeface that may be used. The information, however, must be legible.

Readability and character height

All information that is required to appear on a label, other than the declaration of net quantity (see "Character Height" in section 5.1.1, "Outer Label Requirements"), must be shown in a manner easily legible under normal or customary conditions of sale or use and must be in letters of not less than 1.6 mm in height. When the area of the principal display surface is less than 10 cm2, the information may be in letters of not less than 0.8 mm in height.

The minimum height of the characters corresponds to the height of an upper-case letter when only upper case is used. The minimum height corresponds to the height of the lower-case letter "o" when words appear in lower case only, or when both upper-case and lower-case letters are used.

For further details, consult sections 14, 15, and 16, of the CPLR.

Obvious identity

In certain cases, the product may be exempted from a declaration of product identity. For example, when a product is normally sold by numerical count and packaged so that the content is visible and identifiable (e.g., a plastic bubble pack that contains three shades of eye shadow), or the label bears an accurate pictorial representation of the contents of the package.

Official bilingual exemptions

Exemptions concerning official bilingual labelling may be granted in certain cases. Under the CPLA, test market products may be exempted for up to one year from the bilingual labelling requirements. In order to qualify for such an exemption, the dealer who intends to conduct the test marketing must ensure that:

  • the product in question has not been previously sold in Canada;
  • the product differs substantially from any other sold in Canada with respect to composition, function, state or packaging form;
  • the existing labelling on the product complies with the detailed requirements of the legislation, except for those provisions related to bilingual labelling and container standardizations.

For additional information about a test market exemption, please refer to the Guide to the CPLA and Regulations (2.4.2 Test market products).

4.1.2 Inner label requirements

Obvious identity

On the inner label, a declaration of identity must appear in English and French unless the identity of the product is obvious (e.g. lipstick) or a single expression (see section 4.1.1,"Outer Label Requirements" above) is used. This declaration must contrast both with the background of the label and with all the other information that appears on the label.

4.2 Products that have an inner label only

4.2.1 Inner label requirements

A declaration of identity must appear in English and French on the principal display panel. The declaration must contrast clearly with the background and all other information that appears on the label.

Single expressions

The requirements are the same as those for the outer labels of products that have both an outer and inner label (see "Single Expressions" in section 4.1.1,"Outer Label Requirements").

Additional panels

The requirements are the same as those for the outer labels of products that have both an outer and inner label (see "Additional Panels" in section 4.1.1,"Outer Label Requirements").

Typeface

The requirements are the same as those for the outer labels of products that have both an outer and inner label (see "Typeface" in section 4.1.1,"Outer Label Requirements").

Readability and character height

The requirements are the same as those for the outer labels of products that have both an outer and inner label (see "Readability and Character Height" in section 4.1.1,"Outer Label Requirements").

Obvious Identity

In certain cases, the identity of a product (e.g., as a lipstick, an eyebrow pencil, an automatic mascara applicator, or a compact including powder and puff) may be considered obvious and a written declaration of product identity would not be necessary. If the product is in an opaque container, the identity of the product must be stated.

5. Net quantity of the product

Although the CR do not require a declaration of the net quantity of the product, there are several specific requirements in the CPLA and Regulations.

In general, the packaging should be constructed, or presented in such a way that the consumer will not be misled about the quality or quantity of the product contained inside.

All information presented on a label must appear in such a manner that can be easily read.

The manner in which the requirements are applied depends on the two situations described below:

  • products that have both outer and inner labels (e.g., a bottle packaged in a box has two labels; the box bears the outer label, and the bottle bears the inner label), and
  • products that have an inner label only (e.g., a bottle of shampoo that is not packaged in a box has an inner label only on the bottle).

5.1 Products that have both outer and inner labels

For products that have both outer and inner labels, specific requirements apply to each type of label.

5.1.1 Outer label requirements

On the outer label, the declaration of net quantity must appear in both English and French on the principal display panel. The declaration must contrast clearly with all the other information that appears on the label.

Units of measure

A suitable metric symbol used for the unit of measure is considered bilingual. On the other hand, the use of a complete word normally calls for a translation. This principle is illustrated in Table 5-1.

Table 5-1 Units of measure
English French Correct bilingual abbreviations Incorrect abbreviations
gram gramme g G, gs, g., gm
kilogram kilogramme kg Kg, KG, Kgs, kg., kgm
litre litre L, l, l* L., Ls, l., ls
millilitre millilitre mL, ml, ml* ML, MLS
* Although the script letters "l" (for litre) and "ml" (for millilitre) are acceptable, the abbreviations "L" and "mL," respectively, are preferred.

Additional panels

The labels of some pre-packaged products are composed of one or more additional panels of the same size and prominence as the principal display panel. The net quantity may be given on the principal display panel in only one of the two official languages, provided that it is given in the other language on one of the other panels.

Typeface

The numerical part of the net quantity declaration must appear in boldface type. No restrictions regarding typeface apply to any other information included in the net quantity declaration (e.g., the units of measure, symbols, and abbreviations). However, the declaration must be legible.

Table 5-2 Character heights corresponding to the area of the principal display surface
Area of principal display surface Minimum character height
Not more than 32 cm2 (5 sq. in.) 1.6 mm (1/16 in.)
More than 32 cm2 (5 sq. in.) but not more than 258 cm2 (40 sq. in.) 3.2 mm (1/8 in.)
More than 258 cm2 (40 sq. in.) but not more than 645 cm2 (100 sq. in.) 6.4 mm (1/4 in.)
More than 645 cm2 (100 sq. in.) but not more than 25.8 dm2 (400 sq. in.) 9.5 mm (3/8 in.)
More than 25.8 dm2 (400 sq. in.) 12.7 mm (1/2 in.)

Certain requirements for net quantity declarations are applied to the specific situations described below:

  1. When a product is declared by count and this count is less than two, the net quantity may be considered already declared by the product identity declaration. Where this option is exercised, it is advisable to display the product identity using the type height specified for the declaration of net quantity (see "Obvious identity" in section 4.1.1, and "Character height," in this section above).
  2. The net quantity of a kit for a single use or application may be expressed by giving its identity (see "Official bilingual exemptions," "Single expressions "and" Additional panels" in section 4.1.1) and an indication in English and in French that the contents are sufficient for a single use or application. Home permanents and colouring shampoos fall into this category.
  3. The net quantity of a kit for multiple uses or applications may be expressed as illustrated by the following examples:
    • "This kit contains 10 artificial nails, 5 mL of adhesive, and 7 mL of cleaner."
    • "This make up kit contains 50 mL of white base cream, 10 g of loose powder, and 4 jars of cream (red, green, black, and yellow) of 5 mL each."
    • "This epilatory kit contains enough material to epilate two legs."

Pre-packaged products

As required by sections 22, 23, and 36 of the CPLR, the declaration of the net quantity of a pre-packaged product must be expressed

  • by volume, when the product is a liquid, gas, or viscous substance; or
  • by weight, when the product is a solid.

Supplementary, non-metric declarations

A non-metric declaration of net quantity may be provided. However, this information is considered supplementary to the main declaration. The non-metric declaration must not be false or misleading to the consumer.

For example, supplementary declarations using American gallons, which are slightly smaller than Canadian gallons, can be misleading. The label must note that American gallons are being used (e.g., 3.79 L (1 gallon U.S.)).

The use of U.S. fluid ounces, which are slightly larger than Canadian fluid ounces, can be confusing. It is recommended that the U.S. units be noted if both millilitres and U.S. fluid ounces are being used (e.g., 591 mL, 20 fl. oz. U.S.).

Separation of numerals from units

A single space must be used to separate the numerical part of the declaration from the unit of measure. For example:

  • "500 mL" is correct, and
  • "500mL" is incorrect.

Using the word "net"

It is not necessary to use expressions such as "net," "net weight," "net contents," or "net quantity" in the declaration of net quantity.

Precision of declared quantity

Quantity must be expressed to three figures in the decimal system. However, it is not necessary to indicate zeros to the right of a decimal point. Three exceptions to these requirements are permitted:

  1. If the quantity is less than 100 grams or millilitres, it may be shown to two figures. Zeros to the right of the decimal point need not be shown. For example:
    • 85 g is correct,
    • 85.2 g is permissible, and
    • 85.15 g is incorrect.
  2. If the quantity is less than one, it may be expressed
    • in the decimal system with a single zero to the left of the decimal point, or
    • in words.
  3. A specific variation of (b) permits 500 grams and 500 millilitres to be shown, respectively, as "one-half kilogram" or "one-half litre." These declarations may be expressed in decimal figures or in words.

For 500 grams, the following expressions are acceptable:

  • 500 g
  • 0.5 kg
  • one-half kilogram (un demi-kilogramme)
  • one-half kg (un demi kg)

For 500 millilitres, the following expressions are acceptable:

  • 500 mL
  • 0.5 L
  • one-half litre (un demi-litre)
  • one-half L (un demi L)

When it is necessary to round the metric declaration to the specified three (or two) figures, the rounding is performed in one of the following three ways:

  1. When the digit to be discarded is less than five, the last digit retained should not be changed. For example, when 984.3 is rounded to three figures, (discarding the figure to the right of the decimal point) it becomes 984.

The same rationale applies to numbers below 100. For example, rounding 68.4 (discarding the figure to the right of the decimal point) to two figures yields 68.

  1. When the digit to be discarded is exactly five and is followed only by zeros, the last digit retained should be rounded up if it is an odd number but should be left unchanged if it is even. For example:
    • 984.50 becomes 984
    • 985.50 becomes 986
    • 68.50 becomes 68
    • 7.450 becomes 7.4
    • 7.550 becomes 7.6
  2. When the digit to be discarded is greater than five, or is a five followed by at least one digit other than zero, the last digit to be retained should be increased by one. For example:
    • 984.7 becomes 985
    • 984.51 becomes 985

Average quantity

The actual amount of product contained in the package must correspond to the amount declared within the tolerance prescribed (refer to tolerance tables in Schedule I of the CPLR).

Aerosol products

All aerosol products should comply with section 22 of the CPLR. The net quantity of aerosol products must be declared by weight (propellant plus ingredients).

5.1.2 Inner label requirements

A declaration of net quantity is not required on the inner label. If the manufacturer chooses to include such a declaration on the inner label, it must not be false or misleading to the consumer.

5.2 Products that have an inner label only

Products that have an inner label only must meet the same labelling requirements as those for the outer label of products that have both an outer and inner label (see section 5.1.1,"Outer label requirements").

The declaration of net quantity must appear in both English and French on the principal display panel. The declaration must contrast clearly with all the other information that appears on the label. In this way, the consumer will know the net quantity of the product purchased.

6. Contact information on the label

Sometimes it is necessary for the public, associations, medical practitioners, government agencies, or other interest groups to know the identity of the party that is responsible for a product (e.g., in order to communicate with the responsible party).

As per paragraph 20(a) of the CR, the inner label must contain contact information for product related questions about the cosmetic. The contact information can be either a telephone number, email address, website address, postal address or any other information for the consumer to ask their product-related question. This can be the contact information of the manufacturer, importer, or another appropriate party. The contact should be able to provide a timely response to any questions in both official languages.

It is important that the contact information on the label appears in section 4 of the Cosmetic Notification Form for the product that is submitted to the Consumer Product Safety Program.

As cosmetics are also subject to CPLA and its Regulations, the identity and principal place of business of the dealer must be present on the label.

Note that the identity and principal place of business of the dealer present on the label subject to the CPLA and its Regulations may also be the appropriate contact for the consumer to send their product related questions as required under the CR.

The manner in which the requirements are applied depends on the two situations described below:

  • products that have both outer and inner labels (e.g., a bottle packaged in a box has two labels; the box bears the outer label, and the bottle bears the inner label), and
  • products that have an inner label only (e.g., a bottle of shampoo that is not packaged in a box has an inner label only on the bottle).

6.1 Products that have both outer and inner labels

6.1.1 Outer label requirements

On the outer label, the identity and principal place of business of the dealer must appear on the outside surface of the package (anywhere except the bottom but conforming to the requirements discussed in "Imported Products," below) in such a manner that can be easily read.

Official languages

The identity and principal place of business may appear in English, French, or both official languages.

Typeface

There is no restriction on the typeface to be used, except that the information must be easily read.

Character height

When only upper-case letters are used, the character height must be at least 1.6 mm. When both upper-case and lower-case letters are used, the height corresponding to the lower-case "o" in the appropriate style of print-must be at least 1.6 mm.

Imported products

When a pre-packaged product is manufactured or produced in a country other than Canada, the identification of the dealer may be expressed in the following ways, as per the CPLA and its Regulations:

  • showing the identity and principal place of business of the dealer outside Canada, or
  • showing the identity and principal place of business of the Canadian dealer preceded by the words "imported by" ("importé par") or "imported for" ("importé pour"), or
  • showing a statement of the geographic origin of the product immediately adjacent to identity and principal place of business of the Canadian dealer.

Bulk products packaged in Canada

Where a product is produced in a country other than Canada, imported into Canada in bulk, packaged (at other than the retail level) in Canada, and then labelled, it must be labelled in the same manner as previously described above. For further information, contact Competition Bureau Canada (see section 9.1, "Further Information about the Acts").

Responsibility for packaging

When reference is made on the label directly or indirectly to the place where the packaging was made or where the label was printed (not where the product was made), the reference must be accompanied by a supplementary declaration indicating that the place of manufacture refers only to the package or the label.

6.1.2 Inner label requirements

On the inner label, the identity and principal place of business of the dealer must be displayed so that it can be easily read. The identity and principal place of business may be located anywhere except the bottom of the container (this does not apply to ornamental containers).

According to subsection 20 (a) of the CR, the inner label must contain a telephone number, email address, website address, postal address or any other contact information where a consumer can direct any product-related questions about the cosmetic.

Official languages and typeface

See "Official Languages" and "Typeface" in section 6.1.1,"Outer Label Requirements," above.

6.2 Products with an inner label only

When the product is presented in packaging that includes a single label only, the CPLR require the declaration of the identity and principal place of business of the dealer.

The CR require that the inner label includes, either a telephone number, email address, website address, postal address or any other information that enables a consumer to direct any product-related questions about the cosmetic to a contact person.

6.2.1 Readability

The identity and principal place of business of the dealer or the contact information for consumers must be displayed so that it can be easily read. The information must not be displayed on the bottom of the container (this does not apply to ornamental containers, see "Definitions – Principal Display Panel").

6.2.2 Other requirements

All other requirements for the declaration of the identity and principal place of business are the same as those for outer labels of products that have both an outer label and an inner label. Refer to section 6.1.1,"Outer Label Requirements," above.

7. Avoidable hazards and cautions

The FDA (section 16) and the CR (section 24) prohibit the sale of products that present a hazard to the health of the user. When an avoidable hazard is associated with the use of a product, the product may be sold on condition that a warning describes how to use, or when not to use, the product in order to eliminate the risk. This requirement can be satisfied through a combination of instructions for use, cautions, and symbols, in both English and French.

In some cases, the manner in which the requirements are applied depends on the two situations described below:

  • products that have both outer and inner labels (e.g., an aerosol can packaged in a box has two labels; the box bears the outer label, and the can bears the inner label), and
  • products that have an inner label only (e.g., an aerosol can that is not packaged in a box has an inner label only on the bottle).

A copy of the labels and inserts used with a product of this type must be submitted with the Cosmetic Notification (as described in Subsection 30(1)(b) of the CR).

7.1 Prescribed cautions for hair dyes and genital deodorants in pressurized containers

For certain products, the manner of eliminating hazards is prescribed by the CR.

7.1.1 Hair dyes

Hair dyes that contain paraphenylenediamine or other coal tar dye bases or coal tar dye intermediates, must bear the following warning, as prescribed in section 22 of the CR, on its outer and inner labels:

  • "CAUTION: This product contains ingredients that may cause skin irritation on certain individuals and a preliminary test according to accompanying directions should first be made. This product must not be used for dyeing the eyelashes or eyebrows. To do so may cause blindness."
  • "MISE EN GARDE: Ce produit contient des ingrédients qui peuvent causer de l'irritation cutanée chez certaines personnes; il faut donc d'abord effectuer une épreuve préliminaire selon les directives ci-jointes. Ce produit ne doit pas servir à teindre les sourcils ni les cils; en ce faisant, on pourrait provoquer la cécité."

Preliminary tests

Each package of this type of hair dye must be accompanied by an instruction stating that the product may cause serious inflammation of the skin in some persons, and that a preliminary test should always be carried out to determine if the user has a special sensitivity to the product. This instruction must appear in both official languages.

Instructions similar to the following should describe, in English and French, how to conduct a preliminary test:

  1. Using either soap and water or alcohol, clean a small area of skin behind the ear or on the inner surface of the forearm.
  2. Apply a small quantity of the hair dye, as prepared for use, to the area and allow it to dry.
  3. After 24 hours, gently wash the area with soap and water.
  4. If no irritation or inflammation is apparent, it may be assumed that no hypersensitivity to the dye exists. The test, however, should be carried out before each application.
  5. The hair dye should never be used for dyeing eyebrows or eyelashes, because severe inflammation of the eye or even blindness may result.

7.1.2 Genital deodorants in pressurized containers

A deodorant for use in the genital area that is sold in a pressurized container must carry the following information on its outer and inner labels as prescribed in section 23 of the CR.

  • "Directions: For external use only. Use sparingly and not more than once daily. Spray external skin surface while holding nozzle at least eight (8) inches from the skin."
  • "Mode d'emploi: Pour usage externe seulement. Employer modérément pas plus d'une fois par jour. Vaporiser sur la surface externe de la peau en tenant le bec à une distance d'au moins huit (8) pouces."
  • "Caution: Do not apply internally or to broken, irritated or itching skin. Do not use when wearing a sanitary napkin. Discontinue use immediately if a rash or irritation develops. Consult a physician if the rash or irritation persists or if there is any unusual odour or discharge at any time."
  • "Mise en garde: Ne pas appliquer sur une surface interne ou sur une surface éraflée, irritée ou en proie à la démangeaison. Ne pas utiliser avec des serviettes hygiéniques. Cesser immédiatement l'emploi en cas d'éruption ou d'irritation. Consulter un médecin si l'éruption ou l'irritation persiste ou en cas d'odeur ou de sécrétion inhabituelle."

7.2 Prescribed cautions for pressurized metal containers

Pressurized metal containers have the characteristics listed below:

  • the container is metal and not reusable,
  • the contents of the container are under pressure, and
  • a manually operated valve in the container is used to release the contents.

7.2.1 Products that have an inner label only

If the packaging of a pressurized metal container has an inner label only, the following items must be provided:

  1. The symbol shown in Figure 7.1 must appear on the display panel of the label.
    Figure 7.1: The "Explosive" picture superimposed in the "Caution" border.
    The Explosive picture superimposed in the Caution border

    To determine the smallest size of symbol that may be used, follow this procedure:

    • i. calculate the area that is four percent of the area of the display panel.
      SURFACE = (0.04) X (area of display panel)
    • ii. calculate the diameter of a circle whose area is that determined in i).
      Mathematical equation for diameter which shows an equal sign that corresponds to the square root of (1.27 multiplied by area of circle)

    If the diameter obtained is less than 6.4 mm, 6.4 mm should be used as the diameter in the following step. However, if the diameter obtained is less than 6.4 mm and the net quantity declared is less than 30 mL or 30 g, 6.0 mm may be used as the diameter?

    • iii. draw a circle having the diameter obtained from (ii).
    • iv. draw the symbol entirely within the circle. All of its "points" (three in this case) should just touch the circle. (Note that the length of one side of the triangle is 0.83 times the diameter of the circle.)
  2. The words "CAUTION" and "ATTENTION" must appear on the display panel of the label.

    These signal words must appear immediately below the symbol and they must be printed in boldface type (sans serif capitals). The height of the characters used for these words must be not less than one quarter of the diameter calculated for the size of the symbol (see item (a), above). The signal words do not have to appear side by side.

  3. The message "CONTAINER MAY EXPLODE IF HEATED" and "CE CONTENANT PEUT EXPLOSER S'IL EST CHAUFFÉ" must appear on the display panel of the label.

    These statements (which describe the nature of the primary hazard) must appear immediately below the signal word (see item (b), above) in boldface or medium face type (sans serif capitals).

    The height of the characters used for these messages must be:

    • at least 1.5 mm when the area of the display panel is 100 cm2 or less,
    • at least 3.0 mm when the area of the display panel is more than 100 but not more than 330 cm2,
    • at least 6.0 mm when the area of the display panel is more than 330 but not more than 650 cm2,
    • at least 9.0 mm when the area of the display panel is more than 650 but not more than 2600 cm2, and
    • at least 12 mm when the area of the display panel is more than 2600 cm2.
  4. The following statements must appear on any one panel of the label, except the bottom of the container:

    "Contents under pressure. Do not place in hot water or near radiators, stoves or other sources of heat. Do not puncture or incinerate container or store at temperatures over 50°C."

    and

    "Contenu sous pression. Ne pas placer dans l'eau chaude ni près des radiateurs, poêles ou autres sources de chaleur. Ne pas percer le contenant ni le jeter au feu, ni le conserver à des températures dépassant 50°C."

    These statements of precaution may be shown entirely in upper case, or in upper and lower case, and must be printed in sans serif type. The statements "FIRST AID TREATMENT" and "PREMIERS SOINS" must be printed in boldface capital letters. Capital letters should have a height of:

    • at least 1.5 mm when the area of the display panel is 170 cm2 or less,
    • at least 3.0 mm when the area of the display panel is more than 170 but not more than 330 cm2,
    • at least 4.5 mm when the area of the display panel is more than 330 but not more than 650 cm2, and
    • at least 6.0 mm when the area of the display panel is greater than 650 cm2.

7.2.2 Products that have both outer and inner labels

If a product in a pressurized metal container has both an outer label and an inner label, refer to Table 7-1 for the requirements that must appear on both types of label.

Table 7-1 Requirements for pressurized metal containers that have both outer and inner labels
Net quantity of product Refer to item in section 7.2.1
More than 120 mL/120 g outer label (a), (b), (c), (d)
inner label (a), (b), (c), (d)
120 mL/120 g or less but more than 60 mL/60 g outer label (a), (b), (c), (d)
inner label (a), (b), (c)*
60 mL/60 g or less outer label (a), (b), (c), (d)
inner label (a), (b)*
* Items that are not mentioned for a label type are optional.

7.3 Prescribed cautions for flammable products in pressurized metal containers

In addition to the requirements described in section 7.2, "Prescribed Cautions for Pressurized Metal Containers" specific labelling requirements apply to flammable products in pressurized metal containers.

Flammable products in pressurized metal containers have the characteristics listed below:

  • the container is metal and not reusable,
  • the contents of the container are under pressure,
  • a manually operated valve in the container is used to release the contents, and
  • the spray can be ignited.

(Refer to section 26 of the CR and official method DO-30: Determination of Flame Projection)

7.3.1 Products that have an inner label only

If the packaging of a flammable product in a pressurized metal container has an inner label only, certain items must be provided on the label. This section breaks down the requirements into:

  • products with a flame projection of less than 15 cm
  • products with a flame projection of 15 cm or more but less than 45 cm and
  • products with a flame projection of 45 cm or more or a flashback to the container.

Flame projection less than 15 centimetres

Products with a flame projection of less than 15 centimetres must contain the following items on the inner label:

  1. The symbol shown in Figure 7.2, on the display panel of the label.
    Figure 7.2: The "Flammable" picture superimposed in the "Caution" border.
    The Flammable picture superimposed in the Caution border

    The size of this symbol can be determined using the procedure in section 7.2.1, item (a).

  2. The words "CAUTION" and "ATTENTION" on the display panel of the label. (Because the requirements for pressurized metal containers are also applied (see section 7.2.1, item (b)) these signal words should already be present.)
  3. The words "FLAMMABLE" and "INFLAMMABLE" on the display panel of the label.

    The location, style of appearance, and size of the characters is described in section 7.2.1, item (c).

  4. The statements "Do not use in presence of open flame or spark" and"Ne pas utiliser en présence d'une flamme nue ou d'étincelles" must be present on any one panel of the label except the bottom of the container.

    The height of the characters used in such a message is described in section 7.2.1, item (d).

    These statements may be combined with those in section 7.2.1, item (d),if desired.

Flame Projection 15 Centimetres or More but Less Than 45 Centimetres

Products with a flame projection of between 15 cm or more but less than 45 cm must contain the following items on the inner label:

  1. The symbol shown in Figure 7.3, on the display panel of the label.
    Figure 7.3: The "Flammable" picture superimposed in the "Warning" border.
    The Flammable picture superimposed in the Warning border

    The minimum size of this symbol can be determined using the procedure in section 7.2.1, item (a). The symbol's "points" (four in this case) must just touch the circle.

  2. The words "WARNING" and "AVERTISSEMENT" on the display panel of the label.

    The location, style of appearance, and size of the characters used for such signal words is described in section 7.2.1, item (b). The signal words "CAUTION" and "ATTENTION" may be omitted in this case because "WARNING" and "AVERTISSEMENT" indicate a higher degree of hazard.

  3. The words "FLAMMABLE" and "INFLAMMABLE" on the display panel of the label.

    The location, style of appearance, and size of the characters is described in section 7.2.1, item (c).
  4. The statements"Do not use in presence of open flame or spark" and "Ne pas utiliser en présence d'une flamme nue ou d'étincelles" must be present on any one panel of the label except the bottom of the container.

    The height of the characters used in such a message is described in section 7.2.1, item (d).

    These statements may be combined with those in section 7.2.1, item (d), if desired.

Flame projection 45 centimetres or more or flashback to the container

Products with a flame projection of 45 centimetres or more, or if there is a flashback to the container, must contain the following items on the inner label:

  1. The symbol shown in Figure 7.4, on the display panel of the label.
    Figure 7.4: The "Flammable" picture superimposed in the "Danger" border.
    The Flammable picture superimposed in the Danger border

    The size of this symbol can be determined using the procedure in section 7.2.1, item (a). The symbol's points (eight in this case) must just touch the circle.

  2. The words "DANGER" on the display panel of the label.

    The location, style of appearance, and size of the characters used for such a signal word is described in section 7.2.1, item (b). The signal words "CAUTION" and "ATTENTION" may be omitted because "DANGER" indicates a higher degree of hazard.

  3. The words "EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE" and "EXTRÊMEMENT INFLAMMABLE" on the display panel of the label.

    The location, style of appearance, and size of the characters is described in section 7.2.1, item (c).

  4. The statements"Do not use in presence of open flame or spark" and "Ne pas utiliser en présence de flamme nue ou d'étincelles" must be present on any one panel of the label except the bottom of the container.

    The height of the characters used in such a message is described in section 7.2.1, item (d).

    These statements may be combined with those in section 7.2.1, item (d), if desired.

7.3.2 Products that have both outer and inner labels

If the packaging of a flammable product in a pressurized metal container has both an outer label and an inner label, the labelling requirements must appear in the manner described in this section.

The information is divided into the net quantities of the products in the containers:

  • net quantity more than 120 mL/120 g,
  • net quantity is 120 mL/120 g or less but more than 60 mL/60 g, and
  • net quantity is 60 mL/60 g or less.

Refer to Table 7-2 for the requirements that apply.

Table 7-2 Requirements for flammable products in pressurized metal containers that have both outer and inner labels
Net quantity of product Refer to item in subsections of 7.3.1 (depending on flashback or type of flame projection)
More than 120 mL/120 g outer label (a), (b), (c), (d)
inner label (a), (b), (c), (d)
120 mL/120 g or less but more than 60 mL/60 g outer label (a), (b), (c), (d)
inner label (a), (b), (c)*
60 mL/60 g or less outer label (a), (b), (c), (d)
inner label (a), (b)*
* Items that are not mentioned for a label type are optional.

7.4 Prescribed cautions for mouthwashes

Mouthwashes must be packaged using security packaging. The label must carry a statement or an illustration that draws attention to the security feature if the feature is not self-evident and not an integral part of the products immediate container.

7.5 Non-prescribed cautions

Appropriate measures to eliminate other hazards are not explicitly prescribed in the CR. It is the manufacturer's and importer's responsibility to recognize an avoidable hazard and to eliminate it by providing specific limits on the use of the cosmetic. The following examples may be of some assistance in this regard.

7.5.1 Non-metallic containers

Although requirements are prescribed for products (flammable or otherwise) that are sold in pressurized metal containers, the manufacturer should consider providing the consumer with equivalent information when the container is non-metallic. For more information, refer to sections 7.2 and 7.3 of this guide.

7.5.2 Patch tests

If a caution of the type "CAUTION make a patch test" ("ATTENTION effectuer un test épicutané") appears on the label, the necessity for doing the test is implied. Therefore, instructions for carrying out the patch test should be provided.

A reference to the location of the instructions on the label may be provided with the caution message, or the instructions themselves may be provided with the caution message.

7.5.3 Caustic depilatories

Caustic depilatories should carry instructions for hazard-free use and should also point out the risk of chemical burns.

7.5.4 Melted epilatories

Epilatories that must be liquified by melting through the application of heat before use should carry instructions for hazard-free use and should also point out the risk of burns.

8. Ingredients

This section is intended to help clarify the CR with respect to ingredient labelling. The CR require the disclosure of all ingredients on the label for all cosmetic products sold in Canada. All cosmetic products are required to list their ingredients on the outer label using the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) system of ingredient labelling. Since most cosmetics have packaging, the ingredient list should be on the outer label, legible and clearly visible to the consumer at the time of purchase, as outlined in the CR and the CPLA.

Note:

  • The list of ingredients may be preceded by the word "Ingredient" or "Ingredients/ Ingrédients". Although this is not a regulatory requirement, it is considered acceptable.
  • An ingredient list should not be placed on the underside/bottom of a container if it can be easily placed on a display panel.
  • The information required by the Regulations takes precedence and is of greater priority than voluntary information listed on the product label.

8.1 International Nomenclature for Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) System

INCI stands for the International Nomenclature for Cosmetic Ingredients. It is a system for naming cosmetic ingredients that is multilingual, multinational and based on Latin. It was created by the Personal Care Products Council's International Nomenclature Committee. The INCI system forms the basis of the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook. The Dictionary and Handbook presents the bulk of INCI names juxtaposed with their corresponding empirical chemical formulas, technical/trade names, Chemical Abstracts System numbers (CAS No.), or alternate numbers. This allows for the unambiguous identification of ingredients. Health Canada, along with other government and industry representatives, is a participant of the International Nomenclature Committee, which determines the INCI name assigned to each cosmetic ingredient.

8.2 Ingredient nomenclature

The CR require that all cosmetic products sold in Canada list the ingredients on the label using the INCI labelling system as found in the most recent edition of the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook (ICI Dictionary). The list of ingredients must appear on the outer label of a cosmetic, or if the cosmetic has one label only, on that label. Extra descriptive or marketing terminology is not acceptable in the ingredient list, although it is permissible elsewhere on the label. For certain ingredients and products such as botanicals and ornamental containers, the manner for listing these is prescribed by the CR.

8.2.1 Botanicals

Botanicals are ingredients that are directly derived from a plant and that have not been chemically modified before being used in the preparation of a cosmetic. Botanicals and herbal ingredients must be listed using their genus and species portions of the INCI name (at minimum), or the complete INCI name. Please refer to section 21.2(3) of the CR.

For example, INCI name: Citrus aurantium dulcis (orange) peel extract

The label must show at least "Citrus aurantium dulcis".

Please note that a complete INCI name may include genus and species, common name, plant part, and/or method of preparation. There should not be any partial INCI names listed, however "partial" can vary depending on what the complete name is in the ICI Dictionary (for example: some botanical INCI names may not include method of preparation). The common names of the botanical ingredients should not be translated.

An example is provided in Table 2 to clarify this concept.

Table 2: Acceptable and unacceptable labelling of botanical ingredients
Example A Example B
ICI Dictionary entry:

MENTHA VIRIDIS (SPEARMINT) LEAF OIL

  • Mentha viridis ✓
  • Mentha viridis (Spearmint) leaf oil ✓
  • Mentha viridis oil x
  • Mentha viridis (Spearmint) x
  • Mentha viridis (Spearmint) oil x
  • Mentha viridis (Spearmint oil) x
  • Spearmint oil x
 ICI Dictionary entry:
MENTHA PIPERITA (PEPPERMINT)

FLOWER/LEAF/STEM EXTRACT

  • Mentha piperita ✓
  • Mentha piperita (Peppermint) flower/leaf/stem extract ✓
  • Mentha piperita (Peppermint) x
  • Mentha piperita leaf extract x
  • Mentha piperita (Peppermint) leaf extract x
  • Mentha piperita extract x
  • Mentha piperita leaf x
  • Peppermint x

In most cases, a slash indicates a reaction between each ingredient on either side of the slash, e.g. Acrylates/Styrene Copolymer. In the case of botanical ingredients, where a slash is between plant parts, this means that all the indicated plant parts are used in the preparation. For example, for Camellia sinensis flower/leaf extract, the flower and leaves were used in the extraction.

If a vendor requires an INCI name for a plant part (alone) or a combination that is not currently published to the Dictionary, that vendor should submit an INCI name application at: https://inci.personalcarecouncil.org/

8.2.2 Ingredients listed in the schedule

An ingredient that is included in the schedule to the CR may be listed one of three ways mentioned below.

The manufacturer must use names exactly as they are in the Schedule of the CR. There are three columns in the Schedule: the "EU Technical Name", the "INCI name" and the "French equivalent". Ingredients from the Schedule can use either the (see Table 3):

  • European Union (EU) Technical name (column 1): e.g. aqua; or
  • appropriate INCI Name AND French equivalent name (columns 2 and 3): e.g. water/eau; or
  • the names in all three columns (columns 1 and 2 and 3): e.g. aqua/water/eau.

Please note that for ingredient listed in the Schedule, it is not permissible to use the INCI name without the French equivalent or vice versa.

The complete list of ingredients on the Schedule can be found in Appendix 2.

Examples of combinations of labelling for an ingredient on the Schedule and whether the combination is acceptable as proper ingredient labelling can be found in Table 4 .

Table 3: Example of the Schedule in the Cosmetic Regulations
Column 1
(EU Technical name)		 Column 2
(INCI name)		 + Column 3
(French equivalent)
Acetum or Vinegar + Vinaigre
Aqua or Water + Eau
Cera Alba or Beeswax + Cire d'abeille
Lac or Milk + Lait
Paraffinum Liquidum or Mineral Oil + Huile minérale
Shellac Cera or Shellac Wax + Cire de laque
Table 4: Example of combinations of labelling for an ingredient on the Schedule, and whether the combination is acceptable as proper ingredient labelling
Labelling Proper INCI Labelling Columns in Schedule
Aqua ✓ Column 1
Water/Eau ✓ Column 2 + 3
Aqua/Water/Eau ✓ Column 1 + 2 + 3
Water x Column 2
Eau x Column 3
Aqua/Water x Column 1 + 2
Aqua/Eau x Column 1 + 3

For those choosing to use the INCI name and French equivalents, the CR do not prescribe a specific method for writing the INCI name and French equivalents. While some may find it convenient to use a slash "/" in between the two terms, others may prefer to use a different method. The requirement is that both terms need to appear on the label in such a way that it is clearly understood they are equivalent.

Please note that the ingredients listed in the schedule are the only ones which may need to appear using the INCI name and French equivalent.

8.2.3 Ingredients without INCI names

Most cosmetic ingredients do have INCI names, so it is important to look through the ICI Dictionary carefully. However, if there truly is no INCI name, the ingredient must be listed by its chemical name from a recognized source. If there is no INCI name for the ingredient, list the ingredient name using one of the naming systems listed below in order of preference:

  • Chemical Abstract Service number (CAS #)
  • Chemical name such as the Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) name, or an International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) name
  • "Trade" name from the Merck Index (current edition) (Published by Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA)
  • Latin name (the scientific binomial name, including the genus and species)
  • International Non-Proprietary name (INN)
  • European or U.S. Pharmacopoeia Name (EP, USP)
  • Common name

8.3 How to list ingredients on the label

All information required by the CR must be clearly legible and remain so throughout the useful life of the cosmetic (as described in section 18(b) of the CR). While there is no prescribed font size or type face for the ingredient lists, the list must be clearly legible to the consumer under normal conditions of sale and use.

8.3.1 Legibility

An outer package or box displaying the list of ingredients that is wrapped in clear cellophane would be considered acceptable since the ingredients are clearly visible. Products with a list of ingredients present on the back surface of an outer label that are intended to be read through a transparent container and clear liquids are considered acceptable unless the container and contents distort the lettering and affect the legibility of the ingredient list.

8.3.2 Bottom labels/peel-back labels

The outer label is the one that is most easily visible, usually with the largest surface area. The bottom of a container may be considered acceptable in cases where the shape of the container is flat (e.g. shoe polish container shape). Accordion and peel-back labels are acceptable as long as they can be put back into place in their original condition. Also, it must be indicated that the list of ingredients can be found behind the label (for example:. top portion of peel-back label states "Ingredients here".

8.3.3 Descending order of predominance

Ingredients must be listed on the label in descending order of predominance, in their concentration by weight (as described in section 21.4(1) of the CR). This means that the ingredients at the beginning of the list are present in the product in a greater amount than those at the end of the list. Descending order of concentration does not necessarily apply to fragrance agents, flavouring agents or colouring agents (unless the company wishes to state them in decreasing order of concentration). Please see sections 8.3.4, 8.3.6 and 8.3.7 of these guidelines for exceptions to this rule.

8.3.4 Ingredients with concentrations of 1% or less

Ingredients that are present at a concentration of 1% or less and colouring agents may be listed in random order after the ingredients present at a concentration of more than 1% (as described in section 21.4(2) of the CR). Other than fragrance allergens, flavouring and fragrance agents in products at levels greater than 1% may be listed as "aroma" and "parfum" at the end of the ingredient list or can be placed in descending order of concentration. While it is acceptable to continue to list ingredients present at such small amounts in descending order of predominance, it is not necessary, as long as they are present in the ingredient list.

8.3.5 Incidental ingredients

Incidental ingredients are defined as: any processing aid added and removed or converted to a declared ingredient, or any ingredient of another ingredient or processing aid present at an insignificant level and having no technical or functional effect. Incidental ingredients do not need to be included in the list of ingredients on the label.

8.3.6 Colouring agents

All colouring agents, regardless of their concentration, may be listed in random order after the ingredients that are present at a concentration of more than 1% (as described in section 21.4(2) of the CR). It is also acceptable to list colouring agents in descending order of predominance. Colouring agents should be listed at the very end of the list if all the colouring agents will be listed using the "±" sign or "may contain/peut contenir" provision.

8.3.7 Fragrance and flavour

The CR require that the INCI terms "parfum" and "aroma" are used for fragrance and flavour ingredients, respectively.

The following are INCI names listed in the ICI Dictionary :

  • Parfum
  • Aroma
  • Fragrance
  • Flavor

Note: The term "flavour" (Canadian spelling) does not appear in the ICI Dictionary. It is not an official INCI name, however this spelling will be accepted because of its reference as "flavour" in the CR.

8.3.7.1 Fragrance and parfum

In the case of fragrances, other than fragrance allergens, the word "parfum" may be used to indicate that ingredients have been added to the cosmetic to produce or mask a particular odour (as described in section 21.4(3) of the CR).

The use of the term "parfum" alone or with "fragrance" is permitted, however the term "fragrance" alone is not acceptable.

  • Parfum ✓
  • Fragrance x
  • parfum/fragrance ✓
  • fragrance/parfum ✓
  • fragrance (parfum) ✓
  • parfum (fragrance) ✓

Acceptable options for listing fragrance ingredients:

  • Using the term "parfum" at the end of the ingredient list.
  • Using the term "parfum" at the appropriate point in the ingredient list following the rule of descending order of predominance, in concentration by weight.
  • Listing each fragrance ingredient individually by descending order of predominance.
8.3.7.2 Flavour and aroma

In the case of flavours, other than those that are also fragrance allergens, the word "aroma" may be used to indicate that ingredients have been added to the cosmetic to produce or mask a particular flavour (as described in section 21.4(3) of the CR).

The use of the term "aroma" alone or with flavour (or flavor) is permitted. The ICI Dictionary has the spelling "flavor" whereas the CR uses the spelling "flavour". Therefore, both spellings of the word will be considered acceptable, but they cannot be used on their own. "aroma" is used in an ingredient list to indicate that substances have been added to the cosmetic to produce or to mask a particular taste.

  • Aroma ✓
  • Flavour x
  • flavor x
  • aroma/flavour ✓
  • aroma (flavor) ✓
  • flavour/aroma ✓
  • flavor (aroma) ✓

Acceptable options for listing flavouring agents:

  • Using the term "aroma" at the end of the ingredient list.
  • Using the term "aroma" at the appropriate point in the ingredient list following the rule of descending order of predominance, in concentration by weight.
  • Listing each flavour ingredient individually by descending order of predominance.

8.3.8 Disclosure of fragrance allergens

Some fragrance ingredients can cause allergic contact dermatitis in certain individuals when they come in contact with the skin, and are thus considered contact allergens. These are referred to as "fragrance allergens" in the Regulations, and they include specific substances that must be disclosed on cosmetic labels when present in concentrations greater than 0.01% in rinse-off products, and 0.001% in leave-on products. This allows consumers to identify ingredients to which they may be allergic or sensitive, or wish to avoid, helping them make more informed health decisions regarding product purchase and use.

Fragrance allergens must be disclosed within the list of ingredients, outside of the term "parfum", when present above the specified concentration. As they are considered to be ingredients, manufacturers and importers must indicate them in section 5 of the cosmetic notification form.

The Regulations incorporate by reference fragrance allergens listed in Annex III of the European Commission's Cosmetic Products Regulation (EC Cosmetic Products Regulation), as amended from time to time. This approach facilitates alignment with the European Union (E.U.). Specifically, the fragrance ingredients in Annex III are those that have restrictions set out in column h stating that the substances must be indicated in a cosmetic's list of ingredients under the specified concentration.

In July 2023, the European Commission (EC) adopted amendments to their Cosmetics Regulations to expand the list of fragrance allergens from 24 to 81 entries (See Table 2 in Appendix 1).

Details about the coming into force dates for the disclosure of fragrance allergens in Canada are described below:

  • As of April 12, 2026, new and existing cosmetics have to disclose 24 fragrance allergens (see List 1 in Appendix 1) within the list of ingredients, when present at concentration greater than 0.01% in rinse-off products and 0.001% in leave-on products.
  • As of August 1, 2026, new cosmetics must disclose fragrance allergens from List 1 and List 2 (see Appendix 1), when present at concentration greater than 0.01% in rinse-off products and 0.001% in leave-on products.
  • As of August 1, 2028, existing products must disclose fragrance allergens from List 1 and List 2 (see Appendix 1), when present at a concentration greater than 0.01% in rinse-off products and 0.001% in leave-on products.
8.3.8.1 Naming of grouped allergens

Certain fragrance allergen entries are composed of multiple substances and are considered a grouped allergen. The "group name" indicated for the grouped allergens must be used for the list of ingredients.

The requirement for the mandatory disclosure of the group allergen is when the sum of the concentrations of the substances within the grouped entry exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products or 0.01% in rinse-off products.

Note that it is permitted to list the individual substances from a group allergen entry in the list of ingredients, as additional information, but it is not mandatory.

For example : If a leave-on product contains 0.0008% of "Rosa Damascena Flower Oil" and 0.002% of "Rosa Damascena Flower Extract", their sum exceeds the concentration for disclosure in leave-on products. Thus, the grouped name "Rose Flower Oil/Extract" has to be indicated in the list of ingredients. It is also acceptable to include the individual names "Rosa Damascena Flower Oil" and "Rosa Damascena Flower Extract" as additional information.

8.3.9 Shades and colours

Cosmetics, such as makeup products (e.g. lipstick, blush, eyeshadow) or nail polish/enamel, that come in various shades can list all colouring agents used in the range of products if preceded by the symbols "±" or "may contain/peut contenir" (as described in section 21.2(2) of the CR). It is recommended that when the symbol "±" or "may contain/peut contenir" is used, the colouring agents be the last ingredients listed, in order to reduce the confusion over what substances are included under "may contain/peut contenir". Note that this does not apply to hair dye colourants, but can apply to all makeup, hair mascara, and temporary coloured hair sprays that can be rinsed off.

  • Colouring agents often have more than one INCI name.
  • Where multiple INCI names are listed, colouring agents should be listed as CI numbers, for example: CI 42090 or colour names (formerly "FD&C" names), for example: Blue 1.
  • Either naming convention can be used (if they are INCI names), or both may be listed. If both are listed, the order of listing them as either CI# or colour name first does not matter. However, it must be clear that they are the same ingredient and not separate ingredients. For example: CI 42090 (Blue 1). The two synonymous names for the ingredient can be separated by brackets or a slash, e.g. CI42090/Blue 1, CI 15985/Yellow 6. Note that the use of slash for colouring agents does not have the same meaning as the use of a slash for other ingredients.
  • Please note that "FD&C" is not part of any INCI name.

8.3.10 Cosmetics in small packages or containers

It is important that the information required to be shown on the label of a cosmetic be clearly legible. However, some cosmetics are so small that requiring the ingredient list to appear on the label would make it difficult to see the information. Examples of small containers are those for lipstick, eye liner, lip balm, or anything that may be too small to disclose a legible list of ingredients on the packaging. Small containers that cannot accommodate the list of ingredients in a legible manner can have a tag, tape or card affixed to it which discloses the list of ingredients, if they are not on the outer label.

Alternatively, for cosmetics sold in small packages that cannot disclose the list of ingredients in a legible manner, the list of ingredients can appear on a website, provided that there is a bilingual statement on the label advising consumers that the list of ingredients can be found on that website and includes the web address/url.

An example of a bilingual statement indicating where the list of ingredients can be found includes the following:

"For the list of ingredients Pour la liste des ingrédients: www.website name.ca"

Manufacturers and importers are encouraged to provide direct access to the list of ingredients from the website indicated. A prompt to create an account to access the website or gather personal information would reduce accessibility and should not be required.

The presence of a digital mechanism, for example a QR code, to access the list of ingredients is permitted, as long as a bilingual statement is present to direct consumers to where the list of ingredients can be found.

Tear-away tags or leaflets accompanying the product at point of sale are not acceptable.

8.3.11 Bulk, oddly-shaped and loose cosmetics

A cosmetic that has no outside package (or no packaging altogether) and whose size, shape or texture, makes it impractical for a tag, tape or card to be affixed to the container, may provide the list of ingredients on a leaflet that must accompany the product at the point of sale. Examples of such products include bath bombs or soap (sold by weight or individually), and other bulk or loose products. All the information required on a cosmetic label by the CR must appear on this leaflet. Tear-away sheets and printed pamphlets available at the point of sale are examples of leaflets.

For cosmetic products meant to be dispensed into refillable containers, the label must be affixed to the container and the information on the label must remain legible throughout its useful life under normal conditions of sale and use. This means that the information must not fade, run, rub off, or peel off under normal use. If the refillable container is provided by the consumer, a sticker that consumers are instructed to attach to the container would be the label.

8.3.12 Cosmetics in ornamental containers

An ornamental container is a container that, except on the bottom, does not have any promotional or advertising material on it other than a trade-mark or common name. It is considered to be a decorative ornament because of a design that is on its surface or because of its shape or texture and is sold as a decorative ornament in addition to being sold as the container of a cosmetic. An example of this is a perfume bottle.

If a cosmetic in an ornamental container has an outside package, the ingredient list must appear on the outside package. In the case of a cosmetic in an ornamental container that has no outside package (i.e. a perfume bottle without a box), the list of ingredients may appear on a tag, tape or card affixed to the container.

8.3.13 Testers

Product testers, which allow the public to try the product prior to purchase, do not need to supply ingredient lists. Testers usually appear in close vicinity to the cosmetic that is available for sale. The ingredient list would appear on the label of the product for sale, thus allowing the public to review the ingredients prior to testing the product.

8.3.14 Hotel amenities

Hotel amenities that meet the definition of a cosmetic are subject to all requirements under the FDA and CR. There are no special provisions for hotel amenities, therefore they must adhere to the ingredient labelling requirements as described in this guide. For information about requirements for cosmetics in small packages or containers, refer to section 8.3.10.

8.3.15 Gift sets and kits

Gift sets and kits that contain multiple cosmetics need to list the ingredients of all the cosmetics comprising the kit or the gift set on the outer packaging such that they are available to the consumer at the time of purchase. A kit consists of two or more cosmetics that must be mixed together in order to create the final product, for example hair dye kits or do-it-yourself nail polish or lip balm kits. Gift baskets that have multiple products and are wrapped decoratively (i.e. with cellophane), may have a card affixed to them, since this would be considered an ornamental container.

8.3.16 Samples

The cosmetic ingredient labelling requirements apply to samples in the same manner that they apply to other cosmetic products. For information about requirements for cosmetics in small packages or containers, refer to section 8.3.10.

8.4 Products exempted from mandatory ingredient labelling

Some products can have a dual purpose and, as a result, will fall under more than one piece of legislation simultaneously. An example of such a product would be a chewing gum that claims to whiten the teeth. Under the FDA, a chewing gum is a food, but it must also adhere to the requirements of the CR because it also makes cosmetic claims (to whiten teeth). Because many of these dually classified products already require listing of ingredients under other Regulations, the decision was made to exempt them from the provision to list the ingredients using the INCI system. Therefore, the requirements to list the ingredients under the CR do not apply to any product whose ingredient labelling is regulated under the Food and Drug Regulations or the NHPR.

8.5 Other points of interest

  • Ingredients that have been translated into French, or ingredients listed in foreign languages must be listed separately, not mixed with INCI names. A separate (but identical) ingredient list using another nomenclature system or language may follow the INCI list.
  • Ingredients in cosmetics must not be separated as medicinal and non-medicinal ingredients (or active/inactive ingredients), since this would imply that the product is a drug or natural health product.
  • Ingredient descriptions are not permitted within the ingredient list (for example: super-oxygenated water).
  • Order of ingredients: [ingredients in descending order of concentration] + [fragrance allergen, if applicable] + [parfum/fragrance ingredients] + [aroma/flavour ingredients] + [± or "may contain/peut contenir" colouring agents].
  • Punctuation: the difference between different ingredients must be clear. The following are acceptable ways of expressing ingredients:
    • water/eau, butyrospermum parkii, cetearyl alcohol, acid blue 1/CI 42045...
    • water(eau), butyrospermum parkii, cetearyl alcohol, CI 42045 (acid blue 1)...

    -- note that different ingredients are separated by a comma;
    -- note that different colour names for the same ingredients are expressed with a slash, or brackets.

8.6 Hints and tips

Follow these steps when verifying ingredient labelling:

  • ensure ingredients are on the outer label and clear, visible, and legible;
  • are any ingredients on the Schedule to the CR? If so, verify that they are labelled properly. Check if Aqua/Water/Eau is listed correctly;
  • are there any botanical ingredients? Verify that, at minimum, a genus and species are present;
  • ensure "parfum", "aroma" and colouring agents are listed correctly;
  • check whether your product contains certain fragrance allergens that have to be disclosed outside of the term "parfum".

8.7 Appendix 1: List of fragrance allergens

The Regulations Amending Certain Regulations Concerning the Disclosure of Cosmetic Ingredients incorporate by reference, fragrance allergens listed in Annex III of the European Commission's Cosmetic Products Regulation, as amended from time to time.

List 1: List of fragrance allergens that must be in a cosmetic's list of ingredients, under the specified concentration, as of April 12, 2026.

INCI Name of fragrance allergen

  1. Amyl Cinnamal
  2. Amylcinnamyl Alcohol
  3. Anise Alcohol
  4. Benzyl Alcohol
  5. Benzyl Benzoate
  6. Benzyl Cinnamate
  7. Benzyl Salicylate
  8. Cinnamal
  9. Cinnamyl Alcohol
  10. Citral
  11. Citronellol
  12. Coumarin
  13. Eugenol
  14. Farnesol
  15. Geraniol
  16. Hexyl Cinnamal
  17. Hydroxycitronellal
  18. Isoeugenol
  19. Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone
  20. Limonene
  21. Linalool
  22. Methyl 2-Octynoate
  23. Evernia Furfuracea (Treemoss) Extract
  24. Evernia Prunastri (Oakmoss) Extract

List 2: Expanded list of fragrance allergens that must be in a cosmetic's list of ingredients, under the specified concentration, as of August 1, 2026 for new cosmetics and as of August 1, 2028 for existing products.

INCI Name of fragrance allergen

  1. Acetyl Cedrene
  2. Amyl Salicylate
  3. Anethole
  4. Benzaldehyde
  5. Camphor
  6. Beta-Caryophyllene
  7. Carvone
  8. Citral*; Geranial; Neral
    ("Citral" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  9. Alpha-Damascone; cis-Rose ketone 1; trans-Rose ketone 4; Rose Ketone-4 (Damascenone); Rose ketone 3 (delta-Damascone); Trans-Rose ketone 3; cis-Rose ketone 2 (cis-beta-Damascone); trans-Rose ketone 2 (trans-beta-Damascone)
    ("Rose Ketones" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  10. Dimethyl Phenethyl Acetate
  11. Eugenyl Acetate
  12. Geranyl Acetate
  13. Hexadecanolactone
  14. Hexamethylindanopyran
  15. Isoeugenyl Acetate
  16. Linalyl Acetate
  17. Menthol
  18. 6-Methyl Coumarin
  19. Methyl Salicylate
  20. Pinene
  21. 3-Propylidenephthalide
  22. Salicylaldehyde
  23. Santalol
  24. Sclareol
  25. Terpineol
  26. Alpha-terpinene
  27. Terpinolene
  28. Tetramethyl acetyloctahydronaphthalenes
  29. Trimethylbenzenepropanol
  30. Trimethylcyclopentenyl methylisopentenol
  31. Vanillin
  32. Cananga Odorata Flower Extract; Cananga Odorata Flower Oil
    ("Cananga Odorata Oil/Extract" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  33. Cedrus Atlantica Bark Extract; Cedrus Atlantica Bark Oil; Cedrus Atlantica Bark Water; Cedrus Atlantica Leaf Extract; Cedrus Atlantica Wood Extract; Cedrus Atlantica Wood Oil
    ("Cedrus Atlantica Oil/Extract" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  34. Cinnamomum Cassia Leaf Oil
  35. Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Oil
  36. Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Oil; Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Oil
    ("Citrus Aurantium Flower Oil" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  37. Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Peel Oil
  38. Citrus Limon Peel Oil
  39. Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Oil; Cymbopogon Flexuosus Oil; Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Oil
    ("Lemongrass Oil" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  40. Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil; Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf/Twig Oil
    ("Eucalyptus Globulus Oil" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  41. Eugenia Caryophyllus Leaf Oil; Eugenia Caryophyllus Flower Oil; Eugenia Caryophyllus Stem Oil; Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Oil
    ("Eugenia Caryophyllus Oil" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  42. Jasminum Grandiflorum Flower Extract; Jasminum Officinale Oil; Jasminum Officinale Flower Extract
    ("Jasmine Oil/Extract" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  43. Juniperus Virginiana Oil; Juniperus Virginiana Wood Oil
    ("Juniperus Virginiana Oil" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  44. Laurus Nobilis Leaf Oil
  45. Lavandula Hybrida Herb Oil; Lavandula Hybrida Extract; Lavandula Hybrida Flower Extract; Lavandula Intermedia Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract; Lavandula Intermedia Flower/Leaf/Stem Oil; Lavandula Intermedia Oil; Lavandula Angustifolia Oil; Lavandula Angustifolia Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
    ("Lavandula Oil/Extract" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  46. Mentha Piperita Oil
  47. Mentha Viridis Leaf Oil
  48. Myroxylon Pereirae Balsam Extract; Myroxylon Balsamum Pereirae Balsam Oil; Myroxylon Pereirae Resin Extract; Myroxylon Pereirae Oil; Myroxylon Pereirae Resin
    ("Myroxylon Pereirae Oil/Extract" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  49. Narcissus Poeticus Extract; Narcissus Pseudonarcissus Flower Extract; Narcissus Jonquilla Extract; Narcissus Tazetta Extract
    ("Narcissus Extract" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  50. Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil
  51. Pinus Mugo Leaf Oil; Pinus Mugo Twig Leaf Extract; Pinus Mugo Twig Oil
    ("Pinus Mugo" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  52. Pinus Pumila Needle Extract; Pinus Pumila Twig Leaf Extract; Pinus Pumila Twig Leaf Oil
    ("Pinus Pumila" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  53. Pogostemon Cablin oil
  54. Rosa Damascena Flower Oil; Rosa Damascena Flower Extract; Rosa Alba Flower Oil; Rosa Alba Flower Extract; Rosa Canina Fruit Oil; Rosa Centifolia Flower Oil; Rosa Centifolia Flower Flower Extract; Rosa Gallica Flower Oil; Rosa Moschata Oil; Rosa Rugosa Flower Oil
    ("Rose Flower Oil/Extract" shall be indicated in the list of ingredients)
  55. Santalum Album Oil
  56. Turpentine
  57. Lippia Citriodora absolute (Verbena Absolute)

8.8 Appendix 2: Schedule of the Cosmetic Regulations

Schedule of the Cosmetic Regulations
Item Column 1
(EU technical)		 Column 2
(INCI name)		 Column 3
(French equivalent)
1 Acetum &/or Vinegar + Vinaigre
2 Adeps Bovis &/or Tallow + Suif
3 Adeps Suillus &/or Lard + Saindoux
4 Aqua &/or Water + Eau
5 Bombyx Lipida &/or Silkworm Extract + Extrait de ver à soie
6 Brevoortia Oil &/or Menhaden Oil + Huile de menhaden
7 Bubulum Oil &/or Neatsfoot Oil + Huile de pied de boeuf
8 Butyris Lac Powder &/or Buttermilk Powder + Babeurre en poudre
9 Butyrum &/or Butter + Beurre
10 Candelilla Cera &/or Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax + Cire de candelilla
11 Caprae Lac &/or Goat Milk + Lait de chèvre
12 Cera Alba &/or Beeswax + Cire d'abeille
13 Cera Microcristallina &/or Microcrystalline Wax + Cire microcristalline
14 Colophonium &/or Rosin + Colophane
15 Copernicia Cerifera Cera &/or Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax + Cire de carnauba
16 Dromiceius Oil &/or Emu Oil + Huile d'émeu
17 Faex &/or Lactic Yeasts, Yeast, Yeast Extract + Levures lactiques, Levure, Extrait de levure
18 Gadi Lecur Oil &/or Cod Liver Oil + Huile de foie de morue
19 Hoplostethus Oil &/or Orange Roughy Oil + Huile d'hoplostète orange
20 Lac &/or Milk, Whole Dry Milk + Lait, Lait entier en poudre
21 Lactis Lipida &/or Milk Lipids + Lipides du lait
22 Lactis Proteinum &/or Milk Protein, Whey Protein + Protéine du lait, Protéine du petit-lait
23 Lanolin Cera &/or Lanolin Wax + Cire de lanoline
24 Maris Aqua &/or Sea Water + Eau de mer
25 Maris Limus Extract &/or Sea Silt Extract + Extrait de limon marin
26 Maris Sal &/or Sea Salt + Sel marin
27 Mel &/or Honey + Miel
28 Mel Extract &/or Honey Extract + Extrait de miel
29 Montan Cera &/or Montan Wax + Cire de Montan
30 Mustela Cera &/or Mink Wax + Cire de vison
31 Mustela Oil &/or Mink Oil + Huile de vison
32 Olus Oil &/or Vegetable Oil + Huile végétale
33 Ostrea Edulis Extract &/or Oyster Extract + Extrait d'huître
34 Ostrea Shell Extract &/or Oyster Shell Extract + Extrait de coquille d'huître
35 Ostrea Shell Powder &/or Oyster Shell Powder + Poudre de coquille d'huître
36 Ovum &/or Dried Egg Yolk, Egg, Egg Yolk Extract + Poudre de jaune d'oeufs, Oeuf, Extrait de jaune d'oeuf
37 Ovum Oil &/or Egg Oil + Huile d'oeufs
38 Ovum Powder &/or Egg Powder + Poudre d'oeufs
39 Paraffinum Liquidum &/or Mineral Oil + Huile minérale
40 Pellis Lipida &/or Skin Lipids + Lipides cutanés
41 Pisces Extract &/or Fish Extract + Extrait de poisson
42 Piscum Cartilage Extract &/or Fish Cartilage Extract + Extrait de cartilage de poisson
43 Piscum Lecur Oil &/or Fish Liver Oil + Huile de foie de poisson
44 Pix &/or Tar Oil + Huile d'anthracène
45 Propolis Cera &/or Propolis Wax + Cire de propolis
46 Salmo Oil &/or Salmon Oil + Huile de saumon
47 Salmo Ovum Extract &/or Salmon Egg Extract + Extrait d'œufs de saumon
48 Sepia Extract &/or Cuttlefish Extract + Extrait de seiche
49 Serica &/or Silk + Soie
50 Serica Extract &/or Silk Extract + Extrait de soie
51 Serica Powder &/or Silk Powder + Poudre de soie
52 Shellac Cera &/or Shellac Wax + Cire de laque
53 Sine Adipe Colostrum &/or Nonfat Dry Colostrum + Poudre de colostrum écrémé
54 Sine Adipe Lac &/or Nonfat Dry Milk + Poudre de lait écrémé
55 Solum Diatomeae &/or Diatomaceous Earth + Terre de diatomées
56 Solum Fullonum &/or Fuller's Earth + Terre à foulon
57 Sus Extract &/or Pigskin Extract + Extrait de peau de porc
58 Tallol &/or Tall Oil + Tallöl

9. Sources of additional information

9.1 Further information about the Acts

For information regarding the FDA as it relates to cosmetics, the CR and the Consumer Chemical Container Regulations as they read on September 30, 2001, contact:

Consumer Product Safety Program

Health Canada
Address locator 4908A
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0K9

E-mail: cosmetics@hc-sc.gc.ca
Telephone: 1-866-662-0666 (toll-free within Canada and the United States)
Teletypewriter: 1-800-465-7735 (Service Canada)

For information regarding the FDA as it relates to drugs, contact:

Pharmaceutical Drugs Directorate
 Health Products and Food Branch
Health Canada

Address Locator: 3106B
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0K9

Drugs and Health Products

E-mail: pharma_drug_enquiries-renseignements_medicaments_pharma@hc-sc.gc.ca
Telephone: 613-957-0368
Teletypewriter: 1-800-465-7735 (Service Canada)

For information regarding Natural and Non-prescription Health Products, contact:

Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate

Health Products and Food Branch
Health Canada
Address Locator 2607A
Ottawa, Ontario
K2G 5J9

E-mail: nnhpd-dpsnso@hc-sc.gc.ca

For information about non-cosmetic products with respect to the CPLA and Regulations, contact:

Competition Bureau Canada

Place du Portage, Phase I
50 Victoria St.
Hull, Quebec
K1A 0C9

Toll-free in Canada: 1-800-348-5358
Outside of Canada: 819-997-4282
TTD (hearing impaired): 1-800-642-3844
FAX: 819-997-0324

9.2 Obtaining government documents

Government of Canada publications

Government documents related to cosmetics include:

  • FDA, the CR, and their amendments.
  • CPLA and Regulations, and their amendments.
  • Competition Act and Regulations, and their amendments.
  • Weights and Measures Act and Regulations and their amendments.

These documents are also available online at the Government of Canada Department of Justice, or through Health Canada's Consumer Product Safety Program.

9.3 Flame projection information

The Official Method DO-30, Determination of Flame Projection

9.4 Canadian Metric Practice Guide

The Canadian Metric Practice Guide may be obtained from:

Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
178 Rexdale Boulevard
Etobicoke, Ontario
M9W 1R3

Telephone: 416-747-4044
Toll free: 1-800-463-6727

9.5 Canada Border Services Agency

Issues dealing with the Canadian customs regarding cosmetics may be clarified by contacting:

Canadian Border Services Agency

Automated Customs Information Service (ACIS) line
From within Canada: 1-800-461-9999 (toll-free)
From outside Canada: 204-983-3500 or 506-636-5064 (long-distance charges apply)

9.6 Ad Standards

Ad Standards, formerly Advertising Standards Canada, is the national advertising industry self-regulatory body.

9.7 Cosmetics Alliance Canada

The Cosmetics Alliance Canada is composed of manufacturers and marketers of cosmetics, toiletries, and fragrances, and those who supply materials and services to the cosmetic, toiletry, and fragrance industry. Further information may be obtained by contacting:

Cosmetics Alliance Canada

420 Britannia Road East, Suite 102,
Mississauga, Ontario
L4Z 3L5

Telephone: 905-890-5161

9.8 French language requirements

To obtain details on the labelling of products for the Quebec market, contact:

French Language Office
Government of Quebec
Tour de la Bourse
800 Victoria Place
Montreal, Quebec
H4Z 1G8

Telephone: 514-873-6565

9.9 International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook

The dictionary can be obtained from:

Personal Care Products Council (PCPC)

1101 17th Street, NW, Suite 300,
Washington, D.C., 20036-4702

Telephone: 202-331-1770
Fax: 202-331-1969

Page details

Date modified: