How does New Zealand regulate cosmetic ingredients?
Cosmetics sold in New Zealand must comply with the Cosmetic Products Group Standard 2020, which outlines ingredient regulations through the following schedules:
1. Schedule 4: Components Cosmetic Products Must Not Contain (1,801 items).
2. Schedule 5: Components Cosmetic Products Must Not Contain Except Subject to the Restrictions and Conditions Laid Down (360 items).
3. Schedule 6: Colouring Agents Cosmetic Products May Contain with Restrictions (159 items).
4. Schedule 7: List of Preservatives Which Cosmetic Products May Contain (136 items).
5. Schedule 8: UV Filters Cosmetic Products May Contain with Restrictions (39 items).
Notably, cosmetic ingredients are not required to be listed on the New Zealand Inventory of Chemicals (NZIoC). However, all ingredients in cosmetic products must meet the requirements set forth in Schedules 4–8 of the Group Standard.
On January 30, 2024, the New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) announced updates to the Cosmetic Products Group Standard, partially amending the 2020 version. The revised rules will take effect on January 1, 2026, and all cosmetic products—excluding those containing PFAS—must comply with the updated standard starting from this date.