Regulation of Cosmetic Products
in Canada
If you want to market cosmetic products in Canada , it is essential to comply with the rules and regulations set by the Canadian government. Registration of cosmetic products is regulated by Health Canada , the government agency responsible for ensuring consumer safety and regulating products such as cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
What is a Cosmetic Product in Canada?
In Canada, a cosmetic product is defined as any substance or mixture intended for use on the human body for:
Cleaning
Perfume
Change appearance
Correcting body odor
Protect or maintain skin or hair in good condition
Requirements for Cosmetics Registration
in Canada
Health Canada Regulatory Compliance:
Before marketing a cosmetic product in Canada, you must ensure that it complies with the safety regulations established by Health Canada under the Food and Drugs Act and the Cosmetic Regulations.
It is important that the ingredients used in your cosmetic products are not prohibited or restricted under Canadian regulations.
Cosmetic Products Declaration (NCNF):
In order to sell cosmetics in Canada, it is mandatory to submit a Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF) to Health Canada within 10 days of the product being introduced into the Canadian market.
The statement should include details such as:
Product name.
Product purpose.
Full list of ingredients.
Manufacturer or distributor information.
This declaration must be made electronically through the Notification of Cosmetic Notification Form (NCNF) system.
Labeling of Cosmetic Products:
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Labelling of cosmetic products in Canada must comply with the Cosmetic Labelling Regulations, which require that information be clear and conspicuous in both English and French.
Safety Standards and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP):
Cosmetics marketed in Canada must be safe for use. Although pre-market approval is not required, it is recommended that Good Manufacturing Practices be followed to ensure product quality and safety.
Additionally, it should be noted that some ingredients may be subject to restrictions or bans. Health Canada's bans should be reviewed, which detail prohibited or restricted ingredients in cosmetic products.
Cosmetics Registration Process
Ingredient Review
Verify that your product's ingredients comply with Canadian regulations.
Completing the Cosmetics Declaration (CNF)
Register the product by submitting the Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF)
Labeling Preparation
Labelling your product in accordance with Health Canada requirements, including descriptions in English and French
Shipping and Notification
Notification to Health Canada within 10 days of distribution of the product in Canada
Consequences of applying or not applying the regulations
Failure to comply with registration and labeling requirements may result in:
BREACH
Product recall
Fines or penalties
Damage to brand reputation
COMPLIANCE
Being able to sell legally in the country
Increasing consumer confidence
Credibility of your brand
Registering cosmetic products for Canada is an essential step in entering the Canadian market. Ensuring your product is compliant, filing the appropriate declaration, and properly labeling your products will ensure your brand operates legally and safely in Canada.
Where can you export your cosmetic products with Belab Services?
With over 10 years of experience in cosmetic safety assessments and Canadian regulation, BELAB SERVCES offers a comprehensive and reliable solution to effectively verify and register cosmetic products.
Our solution, based on a deep knowledge of legislation, has a team of scientific consultants and advanced IT tools, making it the fastest and most reliable way to access the European market.