Cosmetics vs. Natural Health Products (NHPs): How to Classify Your Product in Canada

Cosmetics vs. Natural Health Products (NHPs): How to Classify Your Product in Canada

Product classification is a critical determinant of regulatory strategy and market access in Canada. Whether a product is regulated as a cosmetic or a Natural Health Product (NHP) defines the applicable requirements under the Food and Drugs Act, including pre-market obligations, evidentiary expectations, labelling standards, and permissible claims.  For many product…
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EU Cosmetic Labelling Requirements Under Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 | Regulatory Guide

EU Cosmetic Labelling Requirements Under Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 | Regulatory Guide

Entering the European Union (EU) cosmetics market requires more than a strong formulation. It demands precise alignment with the EU’s labelling framework, where compliance expectations are centralized, highly technical, and actively enforced. Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 establishes harmonized requirements to protect consumers, support product traceability, and ensure transparent, consistent communication…
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Health Canada’s 2026 Proposed Updates to the Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist: What Cosmetic Brands Need to Know 

Health Canada’s 2026 Proposed Updates to the Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist: What Cosmetic Brands Need to Know 

Health Canada has begun a new consultation on proposed revisions to the Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist, opening the door to significant changes in how cosmetic ingredients are reviewed, classified, and permitted for use in Canada. The consultation period runs from November 19th, 2025, to February 17th, 2026, marking a critical window for industry to…
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Cosmetic Labelling in Canada: What You Need to Know 

Cosmetic Labelling in Canada: What You Need to Know 

When introducing a new cosmetic product to the Canadian market, manufacturers and importers must meet several key regulatory obligations. Products must contain only safe ingredients that are permitted for cosmetic use, be properly notified to Health Canada through a Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF), and display labels that fully comply with…
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2025 Canadian GMP Requirements for Cosmetics: What You Need to Know Before Entering the Market

2025 Canadian GMP Requirements for Cosmetics: What You Need to Know Before Entering the Market

Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for cosmetics in Canada are regulatory guidelines ensuring the safety, quality, and consistency of cosmetic products. To this end, they are specifically detailed by Health Canada under the Cosmetic Regulations, who mandate that manufacturers adhere to rigorous standards for production, record keeping, and quality control.   GMP…
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May 2025 Health Canada’s Proposed Updates to the Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist: What You Need to Know

May 2025 Health Canada’s Proposed Updates to the Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist: What You Need to Know

Health Canada has released a Notice to Stakeholders outlining proposed updates to the Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist. This notice serves as a heads-up for cosmetics manufacturers, importers, and formulators to review upcoming regulatory considerations and begin preparing for potential product reformulations. Overview: What is the Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist? The Cosmetic Ingredient…
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Canada’s Animal Testing Ban and How To Ensure Compliance for Cosmetics

Canada’s Animal Testing Ban and How To Ensure Compliance for Cosmetics

Canada's 2023 ban on animal testing for cosmetics represents a pivotal moment in the global push for ethical practices within the beauty industry. This landmark regulation not only prohibits the testing of cosmetics and their ingredients on animals within the country but also aligns Canada with a growing number of…
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Key Updates to Health Canada’s 2025 Cosmetic Notification Guidelines 

Key Updates to Health Canada’s 2025 Cosmetic Notification Guidelines 

In March 2025, Health Canada released an updated version of its Guide for Cosmetic Notifications, outlining important revisions to the Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF). These changes are designed to enhance regulatory compliance, improve transparency, and boost consumer safety.   Here’s an overview of the key updates businesses need to know. …
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How to Comply with Canadian Cosmetic Regulations for Easy Market Entry

How to Comply with Canadian Cosmetic Regulations for Easy Market Entry

Navigating the regulatory landscape of the Canadian cosmetic industry is essential for both manufacturers and consumers. Canada’s cosmetic regulations are designed to ensure product safety, transparency, and consumer confidence, but understanding these rules and the public consultation process is key for businesses aiming to succeed in the market. What Are…
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