Hong Kong · Cosmetics

Cosmetic Ingredient Restrictions in Hong Kong

A practical guide to Cosmetic Ingredient Restrictions for cosmetics sold in Hong Kong: who it applies to, what to prepare, and the mistakes that cause rejection.

Who needs it

Formulations must be checked against the local prohibited and restricted ingredient lists, including preservatives, UV filters, and colourants; Online sellers listing cosmetics for buyers in Hong Kong

Authority

Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department

Legal basis

National cosmetics requirements in Hong Kong

Local representative

A local responsible entity or authorised representative is required

Timeline

Before sale; notification review typically takes weeks

Cost

Official fees are usually low; testing and local representation add cost

If you do not comply

Recall, import block, fines, or marketplace delisting

Who needs this

Formulations must be checked against the local prohibited and restricted ingredient lists, including preservatives, UV filters, and colourants
Online sellers listing cosmetics for buyers in Hong Kong

Documents you need

Ingredient restriction screen against the local annexes
Product information file with a safety assessment
GMP certificate for the manufacturing site
Ingredient and labelling compliance review

Compliance checklist

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

Ingredient restriction screen against the local annexes
Product information file with a safety assessment
GMP certificate for the manufacturing site
Ingredient and labelling compliance review

How to comply

Screen every ingredient against the local restricted list
Confirm the product is legally a cosmetic in this market
Compile the product information file and safety assessment
Complete the local notification or registration step

Brief for your lab or agent

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

Request: Cosmetic Ingredient Restrictions — Hong Kong
Product category: Cosmetics
Authority: Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department
Legal basis: National cosmetics requirements in Hong Kong

Documents we already have:
  1. Ingredient restriction screen against the local annexes
  2. Product information file with a safety assessment
  3. GMP certificate for the manufacturing site
  4. Ingredient and labelling compliance review

Questions:
  1. Does our product fall under Cosmetic Ingredient Restrictions in Hong Kong?
  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 sale; notification review typically takes weeks.

Official fees are usually low; testing and local representation add cost.

Common rejection reasons

Restricted preservative above the permitted concentration
Missing or incomplete product information file
Claims that are not supported by evidence
Label not in a required local language

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.

Official sources

FAQ

Who needs Cosmetic Ingredient Restrictions in Hong Kong?

Formulations must be checked against the local prohibited and restricted ingredient lists, including preservatives, UV filters, and colourants Online sellers listing cosmetics for buyers in Hong Kong.

What documents are required for Cosmetic Ingredient Restrictions?

Ingredient restriction screen against the local annexes; Product information file with a safety assessment; GMP certificate for the manufacturing site; and ingredient and labelling compliance review.

What is the first step for Cosmetic Ingredient Restrictions?

Screen every ingredient against the local restricted list. Before sale; notification review typically takes weeks.

How long does Cosmetic Ingredient Restrictions take?

Before sale; notification review typically takes weeks.

How much does Cosmetic Ingredient Restrictions cost?

Official fees are usually low; testing and local representation add cost.

What happens if I sell without it?

Recall, import block, fines, or marketplace delisting.

Who regulates Cosmetic Ingredient Restrictions in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department.