How does the Cosmetics Regulation affect product compliance?

Dutch term: Cosmeticaverordening | Legal basis: Regulation (EC) 1223/2009

The Cosmetics Regulation (Regulation (EC) 1223/2009) governs cosmetic products placed on the EU market. Unlike most other product sectors, cosmetics do not require CE marking. Instead, the responsible person (manufacturer or importer established in the EU) must ensure the product is safe, compile a product information file including a cosmetic product safety report, notify the product in the CPNP database, and comply with specific labelling requirements.

The regulation prohibits the use of certain substances (Annexes II and III), restricts the use of colourants, preservatives and UV filters (Annexes IV, V and VI), and bans animal testing for cosmetic purposes. Claims made on cosmetic products must comply with the common criteria for cosmetic claims (Regulation (EU) 655/2013) and must not be misleading. Market surveillance in the Netherlands is handled by the NVWA.

Why it matters for international businesses

For cosmetics manufacturers and importers, the responsible person concept and the CPNP notification obligation are the central compliance requirements. MAAK Advocaten advises on cosmetics compliance and on supply chain contracts that allocate regulatory responsibilities.