European Union · Cosmetics
EU Cosmetics Labeling
A practical guide to EU Cosmetics Labeling for cosmetics sold in the European Union: who it applies to, what to prepare, and the mistakes that cause rejection.
Who needs this
- Cosmetic products sold in the EU
- Online listings that reproduce label information
Documents you need
- INCI ingredient list
- Nominal content
- Batch code and period-after-opening information
- Required warnings
Compliance checklist
Tick each item as you collect it. Saved in this browser only.
How to comply
- Draft the label with all mandatory statements
- Check language requirements for each market
- Verify claims and ingredient names
Brief for your lab or agent
Copy this into an email, then edit the product and channel.
Request: EU Cosmetics Labeling — European Union Product category: Cosmetics Authority: National competent authorities in the EU Legal basis: Article 19, Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 Documents we already have: 1. INCI ingredient list 2. Nominal content 3. Batch code and period-after-opening information 4. Required warnings Questions: 1. Does our product fall under EU Cosmetics Labeling in the European Union? 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 printing and before the product is listed.
Internal review or consultancy fees vary.
Common rejection reasons
- Ingredients not listed in INCI nomenclature
- Missing responsible person address
- Claims that are not substantiated
Official sources
FAQ
Is INCI mandatory?
Yes. Ingredients must be declared using the common ingredient nomenclature.
When is the period-after-opening symbol required?
It is required where the product's minimum durability is more than 30 months; otherwise a date of minimum durability applies.
What about nanomaterials?
Nanomaterials must be declared with the ingredient name followed by 'nano'.
How long does EU Cosmetics Labeling take?
Before printing and before the product is listed.
How much does EU Cosmetics Labeling cost?
Internal review or consultancy fees vary.
What happens if I sell without it?
Product withdrawal and national penalties.
Who regulates EU Cosmetics Labeling in the European Union?
National competent authorities in the EU.
Related requirements
Need this checked before launch?
Send the product, target market, and sales channel. You get a document checklist, the gaps, and the official route to fix them.
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