Natural Cosmetic Product Licensing (CNP-CNF-CNN)

The Cosmetic Notification Process

All cosmetics sold in Canada must be submitted through the Health Canada Cosmetic Notification Process.

Section 2 of the Food and Drugs Act defines a "cosmetic" as:

" Any substance or mixture of substances manufactured, sold or represented for use in cleansing, improving or altering the complexion, skin, hair or teeth, and includes deodorants and perfumes. "

In instances where the classification of a product is not clear, Health Canada will classify the product on a case by case basis, taking into account factors such as:

1. Representation: The product is represented for sale to serve a cosmetic function such as cleansing, moisturizing, lubricating, perfuming or altering the hair, skin or teeth of humans.

2. Composition of the product: Although the composition of a product alone does not necessarily determine its classification, the presence of an ingredient, or its concentration, may make the product unsuitable for classification as a cosmetic.

3. Level of Action : Cosmetics are normally applied to an external part of the body and not absorbed below the skin to achieve their cosmetic effect.

In addition:

● Cosmetics can be applied to the skin around the eyes but products applied directly into the eyes are not cosmetics.

● With the sole exception of tattoo ink, products that are administered through ingestion, inhalation or injection (such as, intramuscular, subcutaneous or intravenous) are not classified as cosmetics.

Examples of Cosmetics

○ soaps

○ artificial nail builders

○ adhesives such as for artificial nails, hair extensions, etc.

○ moisturizers

○ tinted moisturizers (concealer)

○ tattoo inks

○ makeup products

○ tooth whiteners

○ cleansing wipes

○ feminine douches

Examples of Products that are Not Considered Cosmetics

○ sunscreens (including makeup products with SPF)

○ acne treatment

○ skin whiteners or lighteners

○ denture cleaners

○ hand sanitizers

○ artificial nails and hair extensions

○ brushes

○ laser treatment hair removers

○ collagen or "Botox" injections

○ insect repellents

○ oral supplements

○ room or fabric sprays

○ non-prescription contact lenses