Canadian Cosmetic Regulations (C.R.C. c.869)

The Cosmetic Regulations (C.R.C., c. 869) are made under Canada's Food and Drugs Act and govern the sale and safety of cosmetic products in Canada. Health Canada administers these regulations through the Consumer and Hazardous Products Safety Directorate.

Before selling a cosmetic in Canada, manufacturers or importers must submit a Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF) to Health Canada within 10 days of the first sale. The notification includes the product name, function, ingredient list, and manufacturer or importer details. Unlike some jurisdictions, Canada does not require pre-market approval for cosmetics.

Canada maintains the Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist, a list of substances that are restricted or prohibited in cosmetics sold in Canada. While technically an administrative tool rather than a regulation, the Hotlist is enforced under the general safety provisions of the Food and Drugs Act and is regularly updated to align with international safety assessments.

Labeling requirements mandate bilingual labeling in English and French, INCI ingredient declaration, net quantity, manufacturer or distributor identity, and any required caution statements. Products must also comply with the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act.