New Rules and Safety Guidelines for Cosmetics in India

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Dated: 20.05.2026

New Rules and Safety Guidelines for Cosmetics in India

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has issued a comprehensive public notice on May 18, 2026, clarifying the regulatory framework for cosmetics in India. This article breaks down the essential points, ensuring that consumers, professionals, manufacturers, and importers are well-informed about their responsibilities and the latest compliance requirements.

What is a Cosmetic Under Indian Law?

Cosmetics are defined by the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 as any article intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled, sprayed on, or otherwise applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering appearance. This includes any component used in cosmetic products. Importantly, the definition excludes products intended for injection.

Key Regulatory Provisions

Manufacturing and Import Regulations
- All cosmetics manufactured or imported for sale and distribution in India must comply with the Cosmetics Rules, 2020.
- Only products meeting these standards are permitted in the Indian market.
Ingredient Safety and Restrictions
- The Bureau of Indian Standards publishes a list of ingredients that are generally not recognized as safe (GNRAS) or are restricted.
- Manufacturers and importers must ensure their products do not contain prohibited substances.
Prohibition of Injectable Cosmetics
- Products supplied as injectable preparations are not considered cosmetics under Indian law.
- No cosmetic is permitted to be used as an injection by consumers, professionals, or aesthetic clinics.
- Cosmetics are strictly for external application (rubbing, pouring, sprinkling, or spraying).
Labelling and Claims
- Cosmetic labels must not make false or misleading claims.
- It is illegal to alter, obliterate, or deface any manufacturer’s inscription or mark on the container, label, or wrapper.
- All claims must be truthful and not mislead the user about the product’s purpose or effects.
Intended Use Only
- Cosmetics are only to be used for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering appearance.
- They are not to be used for medical treatments by professionals or individuals.
Violations and Enforcement
- Using prohibited ingredients, making misleading claims, using cosmetics for treatment, or administering cosmetics via injection are all violations of the Act and Rules.
- Such violations can attract regulatory action.
Reporting Non-Compliance
- The public is encouraged to report any violations or suspicious activities to the Regulatory Authority at cosmetics@cdsco.nic.in or to the State Licensing Authority.

Who Should Take Note?

Consumers: Be vigilant about product claims and avoid injectable cosmetics.
Professionals and Aesthetic Clinics: Do not use cosmetics for treatments or injections.
Manufacturers and Importers: Ensure compliance with ingredient lists, labelling, and intended use.

Conclusion

The 2026 public notice reinforces the Indian government’s commitment to consumer safety and transparency in the cosmetics industry. By adhering to these guidelines, all stakeholders can contribute to a safer and more trustworthy marketplace for cosmetic products.

In case you face any issues related to Indirect Tax-Customs, GST, Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), Arbitration matters and Central Licensing and related advisory matters in India then please feel free to get in touch with SJ EXIM Services.

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Source: CDSCO

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