Thailand Finalizes Regulations Governing Microneedle Cosmetics

On May 21, 2026, Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) together with the Cosmetic Committee issued three notifications in the Royal Thai Government Gazette, formally establishing a regulatory framework for microneedle cosmetics. The regulations entered into force on May 22, 2026, imposing a general prohibition on the manufacture, import, and sale of such products, while providing limited exemptions and labeling requirements for permitted products.

Per the newly enacted provisions, two product types are prohibited from being manufactured, imported, or sold within Thailand’s domestic market:

• Cosmetics containing small needle-like crystal structures, i.e., cosmetics containing insoluble components or substances with at least one external dimension exhibiting a needle-like crystalline structure or a sharp-tipped characteristic capable of penetrating the body; and

• Microneedle cosmetics.

An exception is granted for dissolving microneedle patches intended for facial and body skin, provided that the needle length does not exceed 100 micrometers (≤100 μm). Products manufactured or imported solely for export are also exempt from the prohibition.

To enhance consumer safety, permitted dissolving microneedle patches must bear warning statements on their labels, including at least the following:

• The product may cause allergies or irritation. A patch test should be performed before use.

• If any abnormality occurs after use, discontinue use immediately and consult a doctor or pharmacist.

• Do not use on thin skin areas, intimate areas, lips, or abnormal skin conditions such as inflamed skin, inflammatory acne, open wounds, abraded skin, or irritated skin.

• Avoid the eye area.

• Do not use on children under 15 years of age.

• Daily use is not recommended.

Comments

The finalized notifications largely maintain the same requirements set out in the draft version released on November 6, 2025. Market operators engaged in the manufacture, import and domestic supply of microneedle cosmetics must strictly abide by the permitted scope and mandatory labelling specifications. Violations will incur regulatory sanctions and potential market entry bans.