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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 August 2026, with an emphasis on updates in cosmetic ingredients and cosmetic management, among other areas.
In August 2026, 5 new cosmetic ingredients were notified with the China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). They include:
The technical requirements for the 5 NCIs mentioned above have not been disclosed, and they have not yet entered the safety monitoring period.
More Insights: China's NCI Issue 51: Five New Ingredients Announced in Late August
🔘 China Issues Two New Testing Methods for Prohibited Cosmetic Ingredients
On August 3, 2026, China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) issued Announcement No. 72 of 2026, releasing two new complementary testing methods for cosmetics: Determination of Diclofenac Sodium in Cosmetics (BJH 202601) and Determination of Urotropin in Cosmetics (BJH 202602). See previous news.
🔘 China Proposes Cosmetic Regulation Updates: New Prohibited Ingredients, Kojic Acid Restrictions, and Formaldehyde Labeling Changes
On August 6, 2026, China's National Institute for Drug Control (NIDC) issued a notice seeking public comments on nine proposed cosmetic standards. The proposed revisions cover several key areas, including the addition of new prohibited cosmetic ingredients, updates to ingredient restrictions such as those concerning kojic acid, changes to formaldehyde labeling requirements, revised requirements for hair dyes, and the introduction of a new cosmetic safety testing method. See previous news.
🔘 China Issued Its First Mandatory National Standard for Cosmetics
On August 6, China officially issued its first mandatory national standard for cosmetics the GB 7916-2026 Cosmetics—General Safety Requirements, drafted under the organization of the China NMPA. The standard will come into force on January 1, 2028. Following the implementation of the new standard, the GB 7916-1987 Hygienic Standard for Cosmetics, which was introduced in 1987, will be abolished accordingly. See previous news.
🔘 China Adds NMN, Bakuchiol and Two Other New Cosmetic Ingredients to Its Existing Ingredient Inventory
On August 19, 2026, China NIDC made the fifth dynamic adjustment to the Inventory of Existing Cosmetic Ingredients in China (IECIC). Four new cosmetic ingredients — CETYL DIGLYCERYL TRIS(TRIMETHYLSILOXY)SILYLETHYL DIMETHICONE, NICOTINAMIDE MONONUCLEOTIDE, BAKUCHIOL and AZELAMIDOPROPYL DIMETHYL AMINE — have completed their three-year safety monitoring period. Following an assessment confirming compliance with the Cosmetic Supervision and Administration Regulation (CSAR) and other applicable requirements, they have been added to List II of the IECIC. See previous news.
🔘 China Issues New Industry Standard for Cosmetic Product Standards
On August 24, 2026, China NMPA issued the cosmetics industry standard YY/T 10006—2026 General Technical Requirements for Cosmetic Product Standards. The standard will take effect on January 1, 2027. The standard aims to establish a unified framework for developing cosmetic product standards, including rules for product classification and baseline technical requirements. See previous news.
🔘 China Strengthens Cosmetic Adverse Reaction Reporting Requirements with New Guidelines
On August 27, 2026, China's National Center for ADR Monitoring released the Guidelines for Preparing Self-Inspection Reports on Adverse Reactions to Cosmetics by Registrants and Notifiers, providing guidance on the preparation of adverse reaction self-inspection reports by cosmetic registrants, notifiers, and domestic responsible persons in China. See previous news.
🔘 Two Cosmetic Microbiology Standards Issued for Public Comment
On August 31, 2026, The Secretariat of China's National Technical Committee on Fragrance, Flavor and Cosmetic Standardization issued a notice seeking public comments on the fifth batch of cosmetic standards for 2026 (drafts for comment). A total of two national standards were included in this round: Cosmetics—Microbiology—Quality control of culture media and diluents used in cosmetics standards and Cosmetics—Microbiology—General instructions for microbiology examination.
Source: https://sriffi.sit.edu.cn/info/1471/5222.htm
🔘 China Rejects 35 No-compliant Imported Cosmetic in July
On September 1, 2026, China's General Administration of Customs (GACC) released information on imported cosmetics denied entry in July 2026. A total of 35 batches of non-compliant cosmetic products were rejected. Labeling non-compliance was the most prominent issue, accounting for 31 batches. Additionally, 3 batches failed to provide the required certificates or certificates of conformity, and 1 batch failed to meet the national standards for sensory inspection.
Source: China Customs
🔘 South Korea Updates Cosmetic Labeling Requirements for Use Precautions and Allergens
On August 5, 2026, South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) amended its Regulations on Precautions for Use of Cosmetics and Labeling of Allergenic Ingredients, introducing several updates to cosmetic labeling requirements. The amendment adds an exception allowing certain shampoos that may not be rinsed off immediately after use to omit some precautionary statements, and introduces new precautionary labeling requirements for cosmetics containing Benzophenone-3 (Oxybenzone).
The new precautionary labeling requirement for Benzophenone-3 will take effect on September 2, 2026. Packaging labeled under the previous requirements may continue to be used for six months from the implementation date.
Source: MFDS Notice No. 2026-56
🔘 South Korea Proposes Guidelines for Braille and Accessible Labeling of Cosmetics
On August 6, 2026, South Korea's MFDS developed the draft Guideline on Braille Labeling, etc. for Cosmetics, providing guidance on displaying cosmetic information on containers or packaging through Braille and voice or sign-language video conversion codes. The draft aims to support the safe use of cosmetics and protect the right to information of visually and hearing-impaired consumers. The public consultation period closed on August 31, 2026.
Source: kcia.or.kr
🔘 South Korea Proposes Stricter Review Requirements for Sunscreen Functional Cosmetics
On August 19, 2026, South Korea's MFDS announced a proposed amendment to the Regulations on the Review of Functional Cosmetics, introducing changes to the review requirements for sunscreen functional cosmetics. Under the proposal, in vitro test data obtained using methods recognized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and other recognized organizations may be accepted as supporting evidence for SPF and PA ratings.
The proposal also narrows the scope of exemptions from efficacy data submission. Except for previously reviewed functional cosmetics and certain additives, exemptions would apply only when the types, specifications and amounts of raw materials, directions for use, and dosage form remain the same. The proposal is currently open for public comment, with comments due by September 18, 2026.
Source: MFDS Notice No. 2026 - 409
🔘 South Korea Proposes Accepting In Vitro Data for SPF and PA Claims
On August 19, 2026, South Korea's MFDS announced a proposed amendment to the Regulations on the Substantiation of Cosmetic Labeling and Advertising. The proposal would expand the types of evidence that may be used to substantiate SPF and PA claims for sunscreen products. In addition to currently accepted in vivo human test data, companies would be allowed to use internationally recognized in vitro test data to substantiate SPF and PA claims.
The proposed change aims to align Korea's substantiation requirements more closely with internationally recognized testing approaches and provide companies with additional options for supporting sunscreen claims. The proposal is currently open for public comment, with comments due by September 18, 2026.
Source: MFDS Notice No. 2026 - 410
🔘 South Korea's Cosmetics Industry Promotion Act Passes the National Assembly
On August 20, 2026, South Korea's National Assembly passed the bill to establish the Cosmetics Industry Promotion and Support Act, creating a dedicated legal framework to support the K-Beauty industry across the value chain, from R&D, raw materials and packaging to manufacturing, distribution and overseas expansion. The Ministry of Health and Welfare will establish a comprehensive cosmetics industry development and support plan every five years and operate a Cosmetics Industry Promotion and Support Committee.
The bill also introduces a proposed certification system for innovative cosmetics companies and provides a basis for government support for R&D, AI and digital transformation, workforce development, the raw material and packaging industries, distribution improvements, and overseas market expansion. The Act will take effect one year after its promulgation, following Cabinet consideration and promulgation.
Source: mohw.go.kr
🔘 South Korea Revises Guidelines for the Analysis of Prohibited Cosmetic Ingredients
On August 28, 2026, South Korea's MFDS revised and published its Guidelines for the Analysis of Prohibited Ingredients in Cosmetics. The revised guidelines are intended to improve analytical methods for detecting prohibited ingredients in cosmetics and provide technical guidance for industry quality control. The document serves as guidance for cosmetic companies rather than a legally binding regulation.
Source: MFDS Guide-0746-07
🔘 South Korea Issues Guidance on Alternative Testing Methods for Cosmetics
In August 2026, South Korea's MFDS issued two guidelines on alternative testing methods for cosmetics, covering skin sensitization and eye irritation/corrosion assessment. The skin sensitization guideline introduces the human Cell Line Activation Test (h-CLAT), while the eye irritation guideline covers the Short Time Exposure (STE) method.
The guidelines provide technical guidance on the use of non-animal methods in cosmetic safety assessment, further supporting the development and application of alternatives to animal testing in Korea. The documents serve as technical guidance rather than legally binding regulations.
Source:
🔘 Thailand Proposes Voluntary Digital Labelling for Cosmetics
On August 21, 2026, Thailand's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) launched a public consultation on draft amendments to cosmetic labelling requirements, proposing the introduction of digital labelling to reduce the information required on physical labels.
The draft would make digital labelling voluntary for all cosmetics. Products using digital labels would still be required to display seven key items on the physical label, including the product name, batch number, manufacturing date, expiry date (if applicable), notification number, product type, and manufacturer/importer details. Other required information could be provided digitally. Digital labels must remain accessible at all times and the system must operate continuously. The consultation closes on September 19, 2026.
Source: law.go.th
🔘 Thailand FDA Updates Examples of Inappropriate Cosmetic Advertising Claims
On August 25, 2026, Thailand's FDA updated its examples of inappropriate cosmetic advertising claims, highlighting statements that may mislead consumers, go beyond the legal purpose of cosmetics, or imply that a cosmetic is another type of health product.
Examples include claims suggesting that cosmetics can clean household items, fruits and vegetables, or pets, as well as claims involving supernatural or fortune-related effects. The document is guidance only and does not introduce additional legal requirements.
Source: cosmetic.fda.moph.go.th
🔘 Thailand Classifies 5,000 ppm Fluoride Oral Products as Hazardous Drugs
On August 18, 2026, Thailand's Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) issued Announcement No. 37 on Hazardous Drugs, classifying oral-use drugs containing 5,000 ppm fluoride as hazardous drugs. The announcement took effect on August 19, 2026.
For toothpaste and other oral care products, ordinary fluoride toothpaste containing no more than 1,500 ppm fluoride remains regulated as cosmetics, while high-fluoride products at 5,000 ppm are subject to drug regulations. Companies should pay particular attention to fluoride concentration and product classification.
Source: ratchakitcha.soc.go.th
🔘 Indonesia Proposes Halal Assurance Guidelines for Genetically Modified Products
On August 28, 2026, Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (BPJPH) notified the WTO of a draft guideline on the implementation of the Halal Product Assurance System for genetically modified products (G/TBT/N/IDN/192). The draft aims to establish requirements for the halal assurance of genetically modified products, covering aspects such as raw material sources, production processes, and halal compliance. The requirements would be relevant to products subject to mandatory halal certification, including cosmetics.
Source: G/TBT/N/IDN/192
🔘 Indonesia Proposes Requirements for Halal Supervisors
On August 28, 2026, Indonesia's BPJPH notified the WTO of a draft regulation on Halal Supervisors (G/TBT/N/IDN/193). The draft aims to establish requirements concerning the qualifications, responsibilities, and management of Halal Supervisors responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Halal Product Assurance System and halal production processes. The requirements would be relevant to products subject to mandatory halal certification, including cosmetics.
Source: G/TBT/N/IDN/193
🔘 Philippines Proposes Guidelines to Clarify the Classification of Health Products
On August 18, 2026, the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released draft guidelines on the classification and list of health products under its jurisdiction, aiming to clarify the regulatory classification of foods, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, and other health products. The draft proposes considering factors such as intended use or claims, mechanism of action, formulation, route of administration, product presentation, and labeling when determining product classification. It also sets out classification principles for combination health products.
The draft also proposes a Self-Assessment Health Product Classification Tool and provides examples of product classifications. Transitional arrangements are proposed for existing products requiring reclassification, including provisions on registration/notification, stock exhaustion, and label exhaustion. Comments may be submitted until September 17, 2026.
Source: fda.gov.ph
🔘 UK Publishes Seven Cosmetic Ingredient Safety Opinions Covering Preservatives, Hair Dye Ingredients and Silver
In August 2026, the UK's Scientific Advisory Group on Chemical Safety of Non-Food and Non-Medicinal Consumer Products (SAG-CS) published seven safety opinions on cosmetic ingredients, covering Triclocarban, Sodium Orthophenylphenate, Triclosan, Daidzein, Orthophenylphenol, Resorcinol and Silver. The assessments considered various safety endpoints, including genotoxicity, endocrine activity, carcinogenicity and consumer exposure, and provided recommendations on their use in different cosmetic product types.
Overall, SAG-CS considered Triclocarban, Triclosan, Daidzein, Orthophenylphenol, Resorcinol, Sodium Orthophenylphenate and micron-sized particulate silver acceptable for use under specified conditions and concentration limits. For example, Daidzein was considered safe up to 0.02%, while micron-sized particulate silver was considered acceptable at maximum concentrations ranging from 0.2% to 0.3% depending on the product type, with a lower limit of 0.05% for mouthwash and toothpaste.
Source: GOV.UK — Scientific Advisory Group on Chemical Safety in Consumer Products
🔘 EU PPWR Enters into Application
From August 12, 2026, the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR, Regulation (EU) 2025/40) became applicable, replacing the previous Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (Directive 94/62/EC), subject to transitional provisions. The Regulation introduces new requirements on packaging sustainability, recyclability, recycled content, and labelling, affecting cosmetic products and packaging placed on the EU market.
Source: eur-lex.europa.eu
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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