Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products, firstly released on November 30, 2009, is the main regulatory framework for finished cosmetic products when placed on the EU market. It replaces the Directive 76/768/EC, and took effect from July 11, 2013. There have been amendments published since the date when the regulation came into force, and the current consolidated version has been effective since April 24, 2024. 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 Aminal 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