Cosmetic Registration in India is mandatory for the manufacture, import, sale, and distribution of cosmetic products. Cosmetics in India are regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, and supervised by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
This Saving Mantra blog explains the step-by-step process for Cosmetic Registration in India, including eligibility, documents, timelines, benefits, and compliance—carefully written to help you rank higher on Google and launch cosmetic products legally.
What is Cosmetic Registration?
Cosmetic registration is a statutory approval required to ensure that cosmetic products:
- Are safe for human use
- Meet prescribed quality standards
- Comply with labelling and ingredient norms
📌 Cosmetics include: skincare, haircare, makeup, perfumes, toiletries, and personal hygiene products.
Types of Cosmetic Approvals in India
Depending on the business activity, cosmetic approvals include:
- Cosmetic Manufacturing License (India-made products)
- Cosmetic Import Registration (Imported products)
- Loan / Third-Party Manufacturing Approval
Each approval has a separate application process and authority.
Who Needs Cosmetic Registration?
Cosmetic registration is required for:
- Cosmetic manufacturers in India
- Importers of cosmetic products
- Brand owners outsourcing manufacturing
- Distributors launching new cosmetic brands
- Startups and MSMEs in beauty & personal care
Benefits of Cosmetic Registration
- 💄 Legal sale of cosmetics in India
- 💄 Mandatory compliance with drug laws
- 💄 Increased consumer trust & brand credibility
- 💄 Smooth online & offline distribution
- 💄 Avoidance of penalties and product seizure
Step-by-Step Process for Cosmetic Registration in India
A. Cosmetic Manufacturing License (India)
Step 1: Business Entity Registration
Register your business as:
- Proprietorship
- Partnership / LLP
- Private Limited Company
Step 2: Manufacturing Premises Setup
- Adequate space and ventilation
- Separate areas for production, storage, and testing
- Compliance with GMP norms
Step 3: Appointment of Qualified Technical Staff
- Qualified chemist/pharmacist required
- Responsible for quality and safety
Step 4: Application to State Drug Authority
- Submit application with documents
- Pay government fees
Step 5: Inspection & License Grant
- Drug authority inspects premises
- Manufacturing license issued upon approval
⏳ Timeline: 30–60 days (state dependent)
B. Cosmetic Import Registration (CDSCO)
Step 1: Appoint Authorized Indian Agent
- Importer or Indian subsidiary must be appointed
Step 2: Online Application on CDSCO Portal
- Apply in Form COS-1
- Upload product and manufacturer details
Step 3: Documentation & Fee Payment
- Pay registration fee per brand and variant
Step 4: CDSCO Review & Approval
- CDSCO verifies ingredients and labels
- Import Registration Certificate issued in Form COS-2
⏳ Timeline: 3–6 months
Documents Required for Cosmetic Registration
- Business incorporation documents
- Product ingredient list
- Manufacturing process details
- Free Sale Certificate (for imports)
- Labels & packaging artwork
- Authorization letter / Power of Attorney
Labelling Requirements for Cosmetics
- Product name and brand
- Manufacturer/importer details
- Batch number & expiry date
- Ingredient list
- “For external use only” warning (if applicable)
Validity & Renewal
- Cosmetic manufacturing license: Perpetual (subject to compliance)
- Cosmetic import registration: Valid for 5 years
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Product seizure and recall
- Heavy fines and prosecution
- Ban on sale or import
- Brand reputation damage
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Selling cosmetics without registration
- ❌ Using prohibited ingredients
- ❌ Incorrect or incomplete labelling
- ❌ Importing products without CDSCO approval
Why Choose Saving Mantra for Cosmetic Registration?
- ✔ End-to-end cosmetic licensing support
- ✔ CDSCO portal filing & documentation
- ✔ Label and ingredient compliance checks
- ✔ Faster approvals with expert handling
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is cosmetic registration mandatory in India?
Yes, both manufacturing and import of cosmetics require registration.
Q2. Can herbal or ayurvedic cosmetics skip registration?
No, cosmetic products still require approval if classified as cosmetics.
Q3. Is CDSCO approval needed for Indian-made cosmetics?
Manufacturing license is issued by State Drug Authority, not CDSCO.
Q4. Can one registration cover multiple products?
Separate registration is required for each product category/variant.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. Cosmetic rules, ingredient restrictions, and CDSCO procedures may change from time to time. Readers are advised to consult professional experts before proceeding.