Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, initially published on November 30, 2009, serves as the primary regulatory framework for finished cosmetic products in the EU market. It superseded Directive 76/768/EEC (Cosmetics Directive) and became fully applicable on July 11, 2013. Reflecting the dynamic nature of cosmetics safety, the Regulation has undergone continuous technical amendments. The current consolidated version, which incorporates the latest updates to the Annexes, took effect since May 1, 2026. Compared with the previous Cosmetics Directive, the regulation strengthens the safety of cosmetic products, and streamlines the framework for all operators in the sector. 

It consists of 10 chapters with 40 articles, as shown below:

Chapter I Scope, Definitions

Chapter II Safety, Responsibility, Free Movement

Chapter III Safety Assessment, Product Information File, Notification

Chapter IV Restrictions for Certain Substances

Chapter V Animal Testing

Chapter VI Consumer Information

Chapter VII Market Surveillance

Chapter VIII Non-compliance, Safeguard Clause

Chapter XI Administrative Cooperation

Chapter X Implementing Measures, Final Provisions