Canada · Cosmetics

Canada Cosmetics Notification

A practical guide to Canada Cosmetics Notification for cosmetics sold in Canada: who it applies to, what to prepare, and the mistakes that cause rejection.

Who needs it

Cosmetics sold in Canada; Importers and brands

Authority

Health Canada

Legal basis

Cosmetic Regulations under the Food and Drugs Act

Local representative

A Canadian importer or responsible party is generally required

Timeline

Before or at the time of first sale, depending on the rules

Cost

No notification fee; internal or consultant costs vary

If you do not comply

Product removal and enforcement action

Who needs this

Cosmetics sold in Canada
Importers and brands

Documents you need

Cosmetic Notification Form
Ingredient list
Label artwork

Compliance checklist

Tick each item as you collect it. Saved in this browser only.

Cosmetic Notification Form
Ingredient list
Label artwork

How to comply

Prepare the Cosmetic Notification Form
Submit the notification to Health Canada
Update the notification when formulations change

Brief for your lab or agent

Copy this into an email, then edit the product and channel.

Request: Canada Cosmetics Notification — Canada
Product category: Cosmetics
Authority: Health Canada
Legal basis: Cosmetic Regulations under the Food and Drugs Act

Documents we already have:
  1. Cosmetic Notification Form
  2. Ingredient list
  3. Label artwork

Questions:
  1. Does our product fall under Canada Cosmetics Notification in Canada?
  2. Which test standards or evidence do you accept?
  3. What is the current fee and lead time?
  4. Is a local representative required, and can you act as one?

Cost and timeline

Before or at the time of first sale, depending on the rules.

No notification fee; internal or consultant costs vary.

Common rejection reasons

Incomplete ingredient information
Notification not updated after reformulation
Label does not match the notification

Registration, notification, or certification is not the same as approval. Keep the technical file current and make sure the label, listing, and submitted data match.