The key cosmetic labelling requirements: Global rules explained
Cosmetic labels do more than inform and attract—they’re a legal obligation. Whether you’re marketing a moisturiser in Manchester or selling shampoo in Sydney, following the relevant cosmetic labelling requirements is non-negotiable. Regulations vary significantly across countries, and errors can lead to serious consequences.
And if you’re shipping to the UK, EU, United States, Canada or Australia, each country has their own specific requirements you need to follow.
Whether you’re launching locally or expanding globally, understanding the ins and outs of cosmetic labelling regulations will save you time, money and stress. Let’s get started.
Why getting cosmetic labelling right matters
Incorrect or non-compliant cosmetic labels can grind your growth to a halt. Consequences range from financial penalties to product recalls—both of which are damaging and disruptive. Even minor oversights, like an unlisted allergen or untranslated warning, can trigger a regulatory response.
Labelling is an essential link in the cosmetic industry supply chain. It ensures traceability, builds trust and allows your products to legally reach shelves. It also reflects your brand’s integrity—poor labelling undermines confidence, while precision signals professionalism.
For businesses eyeing multiple markets, the complexity grows exponentially. Manual labelling processes often lead to mistakes, while relying on outdated templates can cost you compliance.
What your cosmetic label must include (core requirements)
No matter where you’re selling, most markets expect these core label elements:
Product identity and function
Your product’s nature—“face cream”, “lip balm”, “body wash”—must be clearly stated. It should leave no ambiguity for the consumer or regulator.
Ingredient list (INCI format)
Most regions require ingredients to be listed using their International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) name, in descending order of concentration. Common mistakes include using branded names or omitting allergens, which can lead to instant non-compliance.
Net contents
Volume or weight must be clearly indicated, generally in metric units. In the US, dual units (oz/ml) are common. Incorrect volume is a frequent issue in product recalls.
Manufacturer or responsible person
This includes the name and address of the manufacturer or designated responsible person. It’s critical for product traceability and recall communications.
Batch or lot number
Vital for tracking and recalls. This must be permanently printed, not a removable sticker, and is often integrated with expiry or manufacturing date.
Precautions and usage instructions
Warnings such as “avoid contact with eyes” or “external use only” must be included where applicable. Improper wording or missing instructions are high-risk compliance errors.
These form the backbone of all cosmetic product labelling requirements and fall under broader guidelines on cosmetic product labelling. Errors in these areas are easily avoidable with the right systems.
Regional cosmetic labelling guidelines: UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia
Different markets interpret these core requirements in slightly different ways. Here’s how it breaks down:
UK and EU
Both follow Regulation EC 1223/2009. However, post-Brexit, cosmetic labelling requirements in the UK allow the responsible person’s details to be listed within the UK only. EU regulations require additional disclosures on nanomaterials, and local language labelling is mandatory. The function of the product must also be stated if not obvious.
United States (FDA)
The FDA cosmetic labelling guide requires dual-unit net quantity, a warning panel and product identity placed on the principal display panel. Ingredient listings must use INCI or accepted common names. MoCRA legislation now mandates allergen disclosure, making labelling accuracy more urgent than ever.
Canada
Cosmetic labelling requirements in Canada require bilingual packaging—English and French—and clear separation of mandatory and optional label content. Ingredient listings must follow INCI, and font sizes are also regulated.
Australia
Cosmetic labelling requirements in Australia fall under AICIS, and also requires INCI ingredient listings, batch tracking and safety warnings. Products that border on therapeutic (e.g., acne treatment) may be reclassified under stricter TGA rules, making precise label content vital.
For businesses exporting to multiple regions, it’s essential to manage multiple label templates or invest in adaptable labelling systems.
Cosmetic labelling machines: Making compliance scalable
The manual route is riddled with risk. Labelling the wrong batch, placing labels askew or missing regulatory info can lead to real-world consequences. This is where automation becomes a game-changer.
A modern cosmetic labelling machine ensures every product leaves your line with a precise, compliant label—every time. Here’s how:
Types of labelling machines
- Wraparound labellers: For cylindrical bottles and jars
- Top/bottom labellers: Ideal for flat surfaces, compacts, sachets
- Tamper-proof labellers: Apply safety seals or shrink sleeves
Printing batch numbers and expiry dates
A cosmetic label printing machine integrates batch numbers, production dates and expiry information inline. This removes the need for separate coding processes and eliminates human error.
Adapting to different container types
Whether you’re labelling tubes, glass jars or odd-shaped packaging, today’s machinery is adaptable. You can streamline compliance without slowing down production or investing in multiple manual setups.
Choosing machinery that integrates smoothly with upstream and downstream systems is essential. Specialised equipment can make a big difference when working with smaller batches.
Common cosmetic labelling mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Labelling issues don’t always come from blatant non-compliance—they often come from shortcuts or misunderstandings:
- Incomplete ingredient lists: Leaving out allergens or misusing brand names instead of INCI
- Low durability: Labels that fade, peel or smudge under transport conditions
- Wrong format for region: Using EU labels for UK-only products, or omitting French for Canadian markets
All these errors are avoidable with robust labelling protocols and modern systems. Make sure your labels match both product contents and cosmetic shipping packaging conditions to avoid damage in transit. Proper cosmetic packaging when shipping helps ensure labels remain intact and legible during transit.
Conclusion
Labelling is your regulatory passport. Accurate cosmetic labelling ensures compliance, builds trust and helps your products succeed globally.
From core label content to region-specific laws, the stakes are high—but so are the rewards of getting it right. Investing in the right cosmetic labelling and printing machine can take the manual strain out of compliance, protect your reputation and give your brand the freedom to grow.
Whether you’re reviewing your process or preparing to scale, Advanced Dynamics is ready to support your next step.
