What we coordinate
NMPA ordinary cosmetic filing versus full special cosmetic registration-including…
NMPA ordinary cosmetic filing versus full special cosmetic registration-including infant and child formulations treated as special use.
Domestic Responsible Person setup and dossier sequencing under CSAR…
Domestic Responsible Person setup and dossier sequencing under CSAR and related technical standards.
Where Acadia helps
Documentation packages, labeling alignment, regulator engagement where reviews or…
Documentation packages, labeling alignment, regulator engagement where reviews or supplementary tests are triggered.
End-to-end support from regulatory strategy through listing-optionally acting as…
End-to-end support from regulatory strategy through listing-optionally acting as or coordinating your DRP.
As the second-largest cosmetics market globally, China is an attractive growth market for beauty and personal care brands. All cosmetics sold in China must first be registered and approved by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), whether imported or manufactured domestically. The NMPA categorizes cosmetic products as ordinary cosmetics or special cosmetics; the category determines the regulatory requirements.
We support foreign cosmetic brands with registration and filing processes for both ordinary cosmetics and special cosmetics.
In 2021, China introduced the Cosmetic Supervision and Administration Regulation (CSAR), which increased compliance requirements along with stricter enforcement measures-to ensure cosmetic products sold in China adhere to safety standards and follow international best practices.
Ordinary cosmetics vs. special cosmetics
Ordinary cosmetics are generally products that do not make substantial claims beyond basic grooming, beautifying, or cleansing. These include cosmetic makeup, facial cleansers, skin moisturizers, body washes, and hair shampoos.
Filing ordinary cosmetics with the NMPA is an online procedure that can usually be completed within about two months if documentation is complete and there are no manual reviews or additional product inspections requested.
Special cosmetics are products that make functional claims such as skin whitening, sun protection, and deodorization. These require full licensing and registration with the NMPA, attract strict scrutiny, and call for comprehensive product documentation, testing, and NMPA review.
Products designed for infants and children fall into special cosmetics and must follow the stricter registration process. Registering special cosmetics usually takes 6 to 12 months, reflecting extensive submissions, testing, and ongoing engagement with the NMPA and other relevant regulators.
The role of a Domestic Responsible Person (DRP)
Foreign cosmetics brands cannot register products directly with the NMPA without a registered legal entity or a third-party representative in China-such as a distributor, importer, or compliance agent-to serve as the Domestic Responsible Person (DRP). The DRP manages registration, bears legal responsibility for regulatory submissions and product testing, and responds to authority inquiries.
A capable and reliable DRP is critical for any cosmetics brand entering China.
Navigate cosmetic registration and compliance with Acadia.
Registering and licensing cosmetics in China is complex and time-sensitive. It demands local regulatory diligence and close coordination with the NMPA and peer authorities.
At Acadia, we support global beauty brands in China’s regulatory and compliance environment-from acting as your Domestic Responsible Person to managing product testing and documentation-with end-to-end regulatory support for a smooth market entry.
Discuss your China licensing requirements
We confirm the licence scope, city-level requirements, and application sequence for your business.