Demystifying Cosmetic Regulations in Canada

1. Governing Body:

• Health Canada:
  • Health Canada is responsible for regulating cosmetics in Canada.
  • The primary legislation governing cosmetics is the Food and Drugs Act, and the Cosmetic Regulations under this act.

2. Definition of Cosmetics:

• In Canada, a cosmetic includes any substance used to clean, improve, or change the complexion, skin, hair, or teeth and includes deodorants and perfumes.

3. Notification:

• Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF):
  • Companies are required to submit a CNF to Health Canada within 10 days of the first sale of a cosmetic in Canada.
  • The CNF includes details such as product formulation, ingredients, and contact information for the manufacturer.

4. Labeling and Ingredient Disclosure:

• Ingredient Labeling:
  • Ingredients must be listed using the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) names.
  • Labeling must be bilingual (English and French).
• Claims:
  • Product claims must be truthful and not misleading.
  • If a product makes therapeutic claims, it may be classified as a drug and subject to additional regulations.

5. Prohibited and Restricted Ingredients:

• Health Canada maintains a Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist, which lists substances that are restricted or prohibited in cosmetics.
• The Hotlist is updated periodically, and companies must ensure their products comply with the current version.

6. Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP):

• While there is no specific GMP regulation for cosmetics in Canada, Health Canada expects cosmetics to be manufactured according to GMP to ensure product safety.

7. Adverse Reaction Reporting:

• Manufacturers and importers must report any adverse reactions to Health Canada.
• Health Canada may take regulatory action if a cosmetic is found to pose a risk to public health.

8. Imported Cosmetics:

• Imported cosmetics must meet the same requirements as those manufactured in Canada.
• Importers are responsible for ensuring compliance with Canadian regulations.

9. Organic, Natural, and Cruelty-Free Claims:

• Claims such as "organic" and "natural" are not regulated specifically under cosmetic regulations but must comply with general advertising and labeling regulations.
• There is no specific regulation regarding cruelty-free claims, but companies must ensure any claims made are truthful and not misleading.

Additional Resources:

• Health Canada - Cosmetics and Personal Care - Main page for cosmetics regulations and guidelines.
• Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist - List of prohibited and restricted ingredients in cosmetics.