Monthly Recap: Global Cosmetic Regulatory Updates | June 2025

China Releases the Measures for the Supervision and Administration of Live E-commerce (Draft for Comments)

On June 10, 2025, the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) issued the Measures on Supervision and Administration of Live E-Commerce (Draft for Comments). The purpose of the Measures is to further standardize the market order in the live e-commerce sector, protect the legitimate rights and interests of stakeholders, and promote the healthy development of the industry.

Anhui Releases Guidelines for the Submission of Notification Dossiers for Domestic General Cosmetics in Anhui Province

On June 10, 2025, Anhui Provincial Medical Products Administration (MPA) released and implemented the Guidelines for the Submission of Notification Dossiers for Domestic General Cosmetics in Anhui Province.

China Announces Customs Inquiry Procedures for Export Control of Dual-Use Items

On June 16, 2025, the China General Administration of Customs (GACC) released Notice No. 123 of 2025, titled “Announcement on Matters Related to Customs Inquiries on Export Control of Dual-use Items.” This notice introduces inquiry procedures for the export control of dual-use items, with the goal of enhancing efficiency and transparency of customs inquiries involving potentially controlled goods.

China NMPA Clarifies Labeling Requirements for Fragrance Allergens

On June 17, 2025, China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) released answers to three frequently asked questions concerning labeling requirements for fragrance allergens, plant extract allergens, and kits, as well as the regulatory scope of microcrystalline and microneedle products.

China GACC: Ten Batches of Cosmetics Rejected in May

On June 19, 2025, GACC updated the list of food and cosmetics rejected in May 2025. Among them, eight batches of cosmetics were rejected due to non-compliant labeling. In addition, one batch of cosmetics was found discrepancies between the goods and accompanying certificates, while another batch was found to be past its shelf life.

China Introduces Two-Tier IECIC System and Implements Dynamic Management Mechanism

On June 24, 2025, NMPA released a significant announcement introducing major adjustments to the Inventory of Existing Cosmetic Ingredients in China (IECIC). The changes include the introduction of a two-tier inventory system and a dynamic adjustment mechanism, marking a new phase in China’s cosmetic ingredient supervision.

China Clarifies Requirements for Proof Materials on the Safe Use and Consumption History of New Cosmetic Ingredients

On June 24, 2025, the China National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC) released and implemented the finalized Guidelines for the Research and Determination of the Safe Use History of New Cosmetic Ingredients (Trial) and the finalized Guidelines for the Research and Determination of the Safe Consumption History of New Cosmetic Ingredients (Trial), along with corresponding Q&A.

China NIFDC Seeks Feedback on Nine Draft Cosmetic Standards

On June 24, 2025, NIFDC released a notice, soliciting public comments on nine cosmetic standards, including the General Principles for Physical and Chemical Testing Methods (Draft for Comment).

Beijing Issues Cosmetics Advertising Guidelines

On June 27, 2025, the Beijing Municipal Administration for Market Regulation (AMR) and the Beijing Municipal MPA jointly released the Beijing Cosmetics Advertising Guidelines. The Guidelines applies to advertisers, advertising operators, publishers, and spokespersons involved in cosmetics advertising within the administrative jurisdiction of Beijing.

Shanghai Customs Introduces Measures to Support Cosmetics Industry

On June 30, 2025, during the first China Cosmetics Brand Development Conference, Shanghai Customs officially announced 11 new measures aimed at supporting the high-quality development of the cosmetics industry in the "Oriental Beauty Valley" area of Shanghai.

China NMPA Approves 14 NCIs

In June 2025, NMPA updated the notification status of 14 NCIs. Since the detailed technical requirements for newly notified NCIs have not been made public, the English translations below are merely literal translations based on these NCIs’ Chinese names, which may differ from the INCI names provided by the notifiers.

1. Ceramide EOS, notified on June 10, 2025

2. Longipesin, notified on June 10, 2025

3. Stachyose, notified on June 12, 2025

4. Hexanoyl tyrosine methyl ester, notified on June 13, 2025

5. Gentiana Crassicaulis Root Extract, notified on June 13, 2025

6. Alligator Oil, notified on June 14, 2025

7. Sodium Polyitaconate, notified on June 14, 2025

8. Bacillus/Cordyceps sinensis fermentation product filtrate, notified on June 16, 2025

9. Cinnamomum burmannii (Nees&T.Nees) Blume branch/leaf oil, notified on June 17, 2025

10. Matrine Caffeate, notified on June 18, 2025

11. Dihydroxyphenylethanol, notified on June 20, 2025

12. NAEMATELIA AURANTIALBA Fruiting Body Extract, notified on June 20, 2025

13. Akkermansia muciniphila fermentation lysate, notified on June 24, 2025

14. Distearoyl Butylcholine Phospholipids, notified on June 26, 2025

Guangdong and Beijing Authorities Release Four Batches of FAQs

In June 2025, NIFDC, Guangzhou AMR, Guangdong MPA and Beijing MPA issued four batches of FAQs, covering topics such as general cosmetics notification and toothpaste notification.

China Issues Eight Cosmetics-related Standards in June

In June 2025, China issued eight cosmetics-related standards. The essential information is as follows:

Market Condition

1. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the retail sales of cosmetic products from January to May 2025 was CNY 188.9 billion, with a year-on-year (YoY) increase of 4.1%. In May, the retail sales increased by 4.4% YoY to CNY 43.5 billion.

Notes: To mitigate the effects of non-fixed factors during the Spring Festival and improve data comparability, the National Bureau of Statistics only released combined data for January and February.

2. According to the GACC, the total import value of cosmetics and toiletries from January to May 2025 totaled CNY 50.4 billion, decrease 0.2% YoY. In May, the import value decreased by 4.8% YoY to CNY 10.2 billion.

Macao to Prohibit the Import of Mercury-added Cosmetics

On June 16, 2025, Macao issued Chief Executive's Order No. 109/2025, prohibiting the import, export, and transshipment of 14 mercury-added products identified in the Minamata Convention on Mercury and its related amendments. The ban covers mercury-added cosmetics such as skin-lightening soaps and creams.

Taiwan Issues Labelling Guidelines for Spray Cosmetics

On June 23, 2025, Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) announced Guidelines on the Safe Use of Spray Cosmetics (the Guidelines). While not legally binding, the document serves as a reference for stakeholders in labelling spray cosmetics. It provides precautionary labelling instructions in Chinese for such products, and clarifies that all other applicable labelling requirements shall be observed in addition to those specified in the Guidelines.

PMDA: 100 Batches of Quasi-drugs and 26 Batches of Cosmetics Recalled in June 2025

In June 2025, Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) announced the recall of 100 batches of quasi-drugs—including medicated lotions and medicated concealers—and 26 batches of cosmetics such as hair dyes, hair treatments, perfumes, nail care products, soap, toothpaste, and beauty serums. The recalls of quasi-drugs were mainly due to labeling deficiencies and production errors. For cosmetics, the main causes include improper labeling, incorrect fragrance use, inclusion of prohibited ingredients, and unauthorized production.

South Korea to Strengthen Oversight of Cosmetics Purchased Directly from Overseas

Following the April 2025 revision of the Cosmetics Act, on June 19, 2025, South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) announced draft amendments to the Enforcement Rule of the Cosmetics Act for public consultation. These amendments introduce new regulatory measures to better manage the safety of cosmetics purchased directly from overseas, in response to growing concerns over cross-border e-commerce.

South Korea Releases Two Guidelines on Alternative Animal Testing Methods for Cosmetics

In June, South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) issued two guidelines on alternative animal testing methods for cosmetics: the Guideline on Alternative Animal Testing Methods for Cosmetic Skin Sensitization (EpiSensA) and the Guidelines for Alternative Animal Testing Methods for Eye Irritation of Cosmetics (Reconstructed Human Cornea-like Epithelium, RhCE).

Philippines FDA Withdraws Temporary Extension for LTO Renewal

On February 14, 2025, the Philippines Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a temporary extension of the License to Operate (LTO) renewal filing period from 90 to 180 days prior to expiration. However, to improve public service efficiency, the FDA issued Advisory No. 2025-0095-A on June 30, 2025, officially lifting the temporary measure and reinstating the original 90-day submission window, effective immediately upon publication.

Vietnam Announces to Strengthen Homemade and Handmade Cosmetics Management

On June 2, 2025, the Drug Administration of Vietnam (DAV) issued a letter, urging provincial and municipal health departments to strengthen management of homemade and handmade cosmetics. This follows two earlier warnings in May 2025, where the DAV called for stricter surveillance and enforcement against counterfeit, smuggled, and substandard cosmetics, particularly sunscreen products.

Indonesia Clarifies Cosmetic Test Parameters for Import Certificate Application

On June 3, 2025, Indonesia’s Directorate of Standardization of Traditional Medicines, Health Supplements, and Cosmetics (OTSKK) released a draft Regulation Concerning Cosmetic Test Parameters in Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for Import Certificate Application.

Indonesia Revises Cosmetic Safety, Quality, and Efficacy Assessment Application Dossiers

On June 18, 2025, OTSKK released and implemented the amended Regulation concerning Service Standards for the Directorate.

HSA Alerts 2 Batches of Non-compliant Cosmetics Containing Potent Ingredients Found Overseas

On June 3, 2025, Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA) released a list of products found overseas in May 2025 that contain potent ingredients, including 2 batches of cosmetics. The potent ingredients detected in these cosmetics include Mercury, Betamethasone, and Tretinoin. These ingredients are prohibited for use in cosmetics per Annex II List of substances which must not form part of the composition of cosmetic products.

India Imposes Anti-Dumping Duties on Vitamin A Palmitate and Insoluble Sulphur

On June 6, 2025, India’s Ministry of Finance announced the imposition of five-year anti-dumping duties on imports of Vitamin A Palmitate and insoluble sulphur originating from China, Japan, Switzerland, and the European Union (EU). These duties took immediate effect and must be paid in Indian rupees at the prevailing exchange rate. The measures will remain in place for five years unless amended or withdrawn by the government.

Sri Lanka NMRA Introduces New Format for Import/Consignment Data Submission

On June 13, 2025, Sri Lanka’s National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) mandated the immediate use of a new standardized format for submitting import and manufacturing consignment data. The updated format features a revised table structure, expanded product information fields, and broader scope covering medicines, medical devices, borderline products, and cosmetics. Importers and local manufacturers are now required to submit quarterly reports using this new format. Data previously submitted under the old format remains valid.

Sri Lanka NMRA Discontinues Registration for Certain Consumer Products

On June 25, 2025, NMRA announced that it will cease issuing Certificates of Registration for sanitary napkins, feeding bottles (childcare products), toothbrushes, and toothpaste without medicinal claims, effective June 23, 2025. These products will instead be regulated under mandatory standards by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) and the Consumer Affairs Authority.

Australia Publishes a Batch of Completed Evaluation Statements

On April 2, 2025, the Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS) launched a public consultation, inviting feedback on 18 draft evaluation statements. Subsequently, on June 26, 2025, AICIS published the completed evaluation statements. Of these, nine chemicals pertain to cosmetic use.

New Zealand Launches Certification Scheme to Access China’s Cosmetics Market

New Zealand’s International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ) and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) have introduced a certification programme that offers exporters a government-issued Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificate designed to meet China’s regulatory requirements for cosmetics not tested on animals. This certificate enables New Zealand-made products to enter China’s traditional retail market, expanding access beyond cross-border e-commerce. New Zealand’s ban on animal testing for cosmetics remains in force.

European Commission Requests SCCS Opinion on Heliotropin Safety

On June 26, 2025, the European Commission mandated the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) to assess the safety of heliotropin (CAS No. 120-57-0), an aromatic compound commonly used in cosmetics for its sweet, floral scent. Despite its widespread use, the substance is not currently regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 (Cosmetics Regulation). The committee has accepted the mandate, and is expected to provide its opinion within nine months.

EU SCCS Finalizes Opinions on Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Benzophenone-2, and Benzophenone-5

In February and April 2025, EU SCCS released preliminary opinions on three UV filters, including diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, benzophenone-2, and benzophenone-5. In light of the comments received, SCCS published its final opinions on these ingredients on June 30, 2025, maintaining key conclusions consistent with those outlined in the earlier preliminary assessments.

EU SCCS Confirms Safety of Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (EHMC) in Final Opinion

On June 30, 2025, EU SCCS issued the final opinion on ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (EHMC), confirming its safety as a UV filter in specified cosmetics. This opinion updates the earlier preliminary conclusion that had raised genotoxicity concerns, following a review of additional data and stakeholder input submitted during the consultation period.

U.S. Lawmakers Propose New Sunscreen Regulation

On June 3, 2025, a bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers introduced the Supporting Accessible, Flexible, and Effective (SAFE) Sunscreen Standards Act (H.R. 3686), aiming to streamline the FDA’s review process for the safety and effectiveness of new over-the-counter sunscreen ingredients. The bill has entered the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and is under review. If passed, it would represent a significant reform in U.S. sunscreen regulation.

California Publishes Priority List for Proposition 65 No Significant Risk Levels (NSRLs) Development

On June 5, 2025, California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) released a priority list for developing new or updating NSRLs under Proposition 65. The list includes carcinogens such as Ethylene oxide, 1-Bromopropane (1-BP), and Diethanolamine. When NSRL proposals advance, a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking will be published on OEHHA’s website.

Brazil Issues Guidance Manual on Skin and Eye Safety for Hair Ointments

On June 4, 2025, the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (Anvisa) released the Manual for the Verification of Skin and Eye Safety of Hair Ointments (the Manual). Based on current regulatory standards and supporting scientific evidence, the Manual provides guidance for stakeholders on preparing dossiers to substantiate the skin and eye safety of hair ointments.