EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC 1223/2009): Compliance for Online Beauty Sellers
Updated 2026-08-03
The EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC 1223/2009) requires all cosmetic products sold in the EU to have a Responsible Person (RP) established in the EU, a Product Information File (PIF), and CPNP (Cosmetic Products Notification Portal) notification before market placement. Products must comply with ingredient restrictions, labeling requirements, and claims substantiation rules.
Primary sources
This page is grounded in the primary materials below. Rules change, so open the source and confirm the current version before acting.
FAQ
What is a Responsible Person (RP) for cosmetics?+
A Responsible Person is a legal or natural person established in the EU who ensures a cosmetic product complies with the regulation. The RP must maintain the Product Information File, ensure GMP compliance, handle adverse event reporting, and cooperate with market surveillance authorities. Non-EU brands must appoint an EU-based RP.
What is the CPNP notification?+
The Cosmetic Products Notification Portal (CPNP) is the EU's online system where Responsible Persons must submit product information before placing cosmetics on the market. The notification includes product category, physical/chemical characteristics, the RP's details, and the frame formulation for nanomaterials or CMR substances. This data is shared with poison control centers.
What ingredients are banned in EU cosmetics?+
Annex II of the Cosmetics Regulation lists over 1,600 banned substances. Common examples include mercury compounds, lead and its compounds, formaldehyde (above 0.05% in finished products), certain parabens, and hydroquinone. Annex III lists restricted substances with maximum concentrations. Sellers must verify ingredient compliance before importing.
What labeling is required for cosmetics sold in the EU?+
Cosmetic labels must include: the RP's name and address, country of origin for imported products, nominal content, expiry date or PAO symbol, precautions for use, batch number, product function, and the full ingredient list (INCI names). Labels must be in the official language(s) of the member state where the product is sold.
Do I need animal testing data for EU cosmetics?+
The EU bans animal testing for cosmetics — both testing of finished products and ingredients. Safety assessment must use alternative methods (in-vitro, in-silico, read-across). However, if you sell in other markets that require animal testing (e.g., China for certain products), you cannot claim 'cruelty-free' status for the EU market.
What are the penalties for non-compliance with EU cosmetics rules?+
Penalties vary by member state but can include product recalls, market withdrawal, fines, and criminal prosecution. In France, penalties can reach €75,000 and 2 years imprisonment. Amazon and other marketplaces increasingly require cosmetics sellers to provide compliance documentation, and non-compliant products can be delisted.
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