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The global cosmetics regulatory environment continues to evolve. To help businesses stay updated with regulatory changes, ZMUni Compliance Center regularly releases a monthly recap of global cosmetics regulations. This article covers the regulatory developments related to cosmetics in China and globally in May 2026, with an emphasis on updates in cosmetic ingredients and cosmetic management, among other areas.
In May 2026, 20 new cosmetic ingredients were notified with the China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). They include:
The technical requirements for the 20 NCIs mentioned above have not been disclosed, and they have not yet entered the safety monitoring period.
More Insights:
China's NCI Issue 43: Targeted Plant Cell Culture Innovation and Cyclic Peptides
China's NCI Issue 42: Botanical, Fungal, Fermentation and Functional Polymer Innovations
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🔘 China Introduces Major Overhaul of Import Cosmetics Regulations Effective December 2026
On May 6, 2026, China's General Administration of Customs (GACC) released the Administrative Measures on Inspection and Quarantine of Imported and Exported Cosmetics (GACC Order No. 284), which will take effect on December 1, 2026, allowing a transition period of over seven months for industry compliance preparation. See previous news.
🔘 Shanghai Introduces Electronic Label Pilot for Imported Cosmetics
As the implementation of the electronic cosmetic label initiative progresses, Shanghai Customs and Shanghai Medical Products Administration jointly issued an announcement on May 9, 2026 regarding the pilot application of electronic labels for imported cosmetics in Shanghai. The measures are intended to further optimize the port business environment and support the adoption of digital labeling practices for imported cosmetics. The measures officially took effect on May 11, 2026. See previous news.
🔘 China Incorporates Three Revised Cosmetic Standards into STSC 2015
On May 15, 2026, China NMPA issued Announcement No. 48 of 2026, incorporating three revised cosmetic standards into the Safety and Technical Standards for Cosmetics (STSC 2015). Among these, the revised standards for Biphenyl-2-ol and its salts and Acid Violet 43 (CI 60730) will take effect on June 1, 2028. See previous news.
🔘 China Rejects 39 Cosmetic Samples Over Labeling Issues: Compliance for Promotional Cosmetics
On May 18, 2026, China's General Administration of Customs (GACC) released information on imported cosmetics denied entry in April 2026. A total of 40 batches of non-compliant cosmetic products were rejected, involving well-known brands such as Shu Uemura, SkinCeuticals, and Yves Saint Laurent. See previous news.
🔘 China Adds Eight Cosmetic Testing Standards to STSC 2015
On May 29, 2026, China NMPA issued Announcement No. 51 of 2026, incorporating eight testing standards into the Safety and Technical Standards for Cosmetics (STSC 2015). On the same day, the National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC) also published a Q&A document further explaining the background, significance, and technical considerations behind the development of these eight standards. See previous news.
🔘 South Korea Steps Up Safety Checks and Customs Inspection on Counterfeit Cosmetics from Overseas E-Commerce
On May 12, 2026, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS), the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO), and the Korea Customs Service (KCS) announced a joint initiative to conduct large-scale safety inspections and intercept suspected counterfeit cosmetics entering the country via overseas online platforms.
Driven by the surge in cross-border e-commerce, the authorities will expand annual safety inspections to 1,200 cases. The joint operation aims to detect hazardous substances such as heavy metals and clamp down on trademark infringements, protecting public health and safeguarding the brand reputation of the domestic beauty industry.
Source: Safety Inspections for Cosmetics Suspected of Counterfeiting from Overseas Direct Purchase
🔘 South Korea Amends Regulations on Reporting Cosmetics Production, Import Records, and Ingredients
On May 13, 2026, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) of South Korea officially implemented partial amendments to the Regulations on Reporting Cosmetics Production, Import Records, and Ingredient Lists.
The amendment aims to address administrative gaps under the current framework. Key provisions mandate that relevant industry associations responsible for collecting reports verify the status of non-reporting cosmetics distributors. Additionally, regional food and drug administrations are directed to conduct on-site inspections of non-compliant businesses and take regulatory actions. Concurrently, the update introduces incentives, such as commendations, for businesses demonstrating high compliance in reporting.
Source: MFDS Notice No. 2026-38
🔘 Thailand Updates Regulatory Requirements for Piperonal in Cosmetics
On May 21, 2026, the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) of Thailand published a notice in the Royal Gazette updating the regulatory requirements for the use of Piperonal (Heliotropine) in cosmetics, superseding previous management rules.
Under the updated framework, Piperonal (CAS No. 120-57-0) is permitted in all cosmetic categories, with a maximum concentration of 1% in ready-for-use products. The substance must also meet the following criteria:
Raw Material Limitation: The concentration of Piperonal within raw material ingredients must not exceed 10%.
Functional Scope: Piperonal-containing raw materials are restricted exclusively to fragrance or skin-conditioning purposes.
Source: https://ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/documents/115325.pdf
🔘 Thailand Tightens Regulatory Control over Microneedle Cosmetics, Restricting Market Access
On May 21, 2026, Thailand MOPH issued three regulatory notices in the Royal Gazette to define the compliance boundaries for microneedle-based cosmetics. The updates address the management of microneedle cosmetics, restrictions on needle-like crystalline structures, and labeling requirements for dissolving microneedle patches.
Under the new regulations, cosmetics featuring microneedle structures are prohibited from production, import, or sale. This ban extends to cosmetics containing insoluble, needle-like crystalline components capable of penetrating the skin, directly affecting physically-penetrating products like spicules and micro-crystallines designed to enhance ingredient absorption.
However, certain exceptions apply. Dissolving microneedle patches for facial or body care remain regulated as cosmetics, provided the needle length does not exceed 100 micrometers (≤ 100 µm). Additionally, products intended exclusively for export may still be manufactured or imported but are strictly barred from the domestic market.
Concurrently, new labeling mandates require dissolving microneedle patches to display precautionary warnings. Businesses must caution consumers regarding potential tingling, irritation, or skin discomfort, while advising against daily use and recommending caution for children (under 15 years old), sensitive skin groups, and individuals with inflamed or damaged skin.
Source:
https://ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/documents/115326.pdf
https://ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/documents/115327.pdf
https://ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/documents/115328.pdf
🔘 SCCS Issues Preliminary Opinion: Acetophenone Safe in Cosmetics up to 100 ppm as an NCS Constituent
On May 4, 2026, the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) published its preliminary opinion on the safety of Acetophenone, opening a public consultation period until July 6, 2026.
The SCCS concludes that Acetophenone is safe for use when present as a constituent of Natural Complex Substances (NCS) in cosmetic products, provided its maximum concentration in the finished product does not exceed 100 ppm (0.01%). This safety assessment accounts for aggregate exposure from non-cosmetic sources, such as food and tobacco smoking. Notably, this conclusion applies solely to Acetophenone itself and does not constitute a safety evaluation of the NCS as a whole.
🔘 EU Cosmetics Regulation Updated: Amending Act (EU) 2026/909 Now in Effect
On April 27, 2026, the European Commission published Regulation (EU) 2026/909, amending Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 (the EU Cosmetics Regulation). The amending act introduces updated management requirements for potential endocrine disruptors, prohibited substances, restricted substances, preservatives, and UV filters, and officially entered into force on May 18, 2026.
The update modifies several annexes to establish new or revised restrictions on multiple ingredients. Affected substances include certain fragrance allergens (e.g., Citral), water-soluble zinc salts, aluminium and its compounds, hair dye ingredients, the preservative Ammonium Silver Zinc Aluminium Silicate, and the UV filter DHHB.
Source: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2026/909/oj/eng
🔘 EU Omnibus Act VIII Enforced: 18 CMR Substances Now Subject to Bans and Restrictions
On January 12, 2026, the European Commission published Regulation (EU) 2026/78 (Omnibus Act VIII), amending Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 to update the regulatory requirements for carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction (CMR) substances in cosmetics. The regulation officially entered into force on May 1st, 2026.
The amendment updates several annexes of the EU Cosmetics Regulation, including the lists of prohibited substances, restricted substances, permitted colorants, and allowed preservatives. Effective May 1, 2026, cosmetic products containing the affected ingredients that do not comply with the new mandates are banned from the EU market and must be withdrawn prior to the enforcement date.
Source: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2026/78/oj/eng
*Note: This article is compiled by ZMUni Compliance Centre, drawing from the latest updates from official regulatory authorities in various countries and regions. For any questions regarding interpretations or expressions, please consult the official real-time announcements.
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