United Kingdom
Cosmetic Compliance
Since Brexit, the UK has its own independent regulatory framework. While based on EU law, there are critical differences in notification, labeling, and Responsible Person requirements that brands must navigate.
On This Page
Dual EU/UK Compliance?
Save time by preparing one PIF that covers both markets.
UK Responsible Person
You cannot use an EU-based Responsible Person for the UK market. You must designate a UK Responsible Person established within Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales).
The UK RP must hold the Product Information File (PIF) at a UK address and be available to UK authorities (OPSS).
Post-Brexit FAQ
Can I sell in Northern Ireland with a UK RP?
No. Under the Northern Ireland Protocol, Northern Ireland follows EU cosmetic regulations. You need an EU Responsible Person (or one based in NI) for sales in Northern Ireland.
Do I need a new CPSR for the UK?
Technically, yes. While the safety standards are identical, the report must reference UK Regulation 1223/2009 (as retained in UK law) instead of the EU Regulation. Most safety assessors can issue a "dual" report covering both.
Is the CPNP notification valid in the UK?
No. The CPNP is for the EU-27. For Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales), you must use the SCPN portal.
SCPN Notification
The EU CPNP is not valid for the UK. You must notify your products on the Submit Cosmetic Product Notification (SCPN) portal.
What You Need
- • Product Category
- • Product Name
- • UK RP Details
- • Frame Formulation
- • Label Image
Timing
Notification must be completed before the product is placed on the UK market.
Labeling Changes
The main change for UK labeling is the address requirement.
- UK Address: You must list the name and address of the UK Responsible Person.
- Country of Origin: "Made in [Country]" is required if manufactured outside the UK.
Ingredient Divergence
While rare, the UK and EU lists of banned/restricted ingredients (Annexes II & III) are starting to diverge. Substances banned in the EU (like certain CMRs) might not be automatically banned in the UK at the same time, and vice versa.
Action Item
Always check the UK Statutory Instruments and the specific UK cosmetic regulation annexes, not just the EU Cosing database.
Need a UK Responsible Person?
Our partners can act as your UK RP and handle all SCPN notifications.