Korea Recent Cosmetic Regulatory Updates

Recently Korea MFDS released a series of regulatory updates for cosmetics for public consultation which includes: Labeling of PA++++ Korea MFDS announced that from December products can label PA++++. The rule for labeling PA value will be: Measured PFA = 2~3, indication of PA+ Measured PFA = 4~7, indication of PA++ Measured PFA = 8~15, indication of PA+++ Measured PFA≧16, indication of PA++++ Gwon Osang of the Cosmetic Policy Department in MFDS explained that the revision was formulated referring to C

Takehome:

From December 2016 products with a measured PFA of ≧16 can be labeled PA++++.
A cosmetic administrative department has been established to manage standards and certifications for natural and organic cosmetics.
In future colleges and research institutes will be permitted to apply for evaluation of functional cosmetics.
If there is a change to ingredient documentation and usage standards, companies shall report to MFDS.

Recently Korea MFDS released a series of regulatory updates for cosmetics for public consultation which includes:

Labeling of PA++++

Korea MFDS announced that from December products can label PA++++. The rule for labeling PA value will be:

Measured PFA = 2~3, indication of PA+
Measured PFA = 4~7, indication of PA++
Measured PFA = 8~15, indication of PA+++
Measured PFA≧16, indication of PA++++

Gwon Osang of the Cosmetic Policy Department in MFDS explained that the revision was formulated referring to Chinese and Japanese standards to help boost exports.

Certification of Natural and Organic Products

In the past there was no definition, standard or certification system for natural products. Although organic cosmetics have clear definitions and standards the certification system wasn’t established. To protect consumer interests and standardize the industry, a cosmetic administrative department has been established to manage standards and certifications for natural and organic cosmetics, collect and analyze cosmetic safety information and develop educational and promotion activities.

Extension of Functional Cosmetic Applicant Scope

The qualified applicants will no longer be limited to manufacturers, importers, distributers and suppliers. In the future colleges and research institutes will be permitted to apply for evaluation of functional cosmetics.

Addition of Ingredient Application Requirements

Addition or modification of cosmetic ingredient registration documentation requires companies to report to MFDS. When usage standards of cosmetic preservatives, colorants and sunscreens change, reporting to MFDS is also required.