The List of Prohibited Ingredients in Korean Cosmetics is governed by Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) which is managed in accordance with the Cosmetic Act and the Regulation on the Safety Standards, etc. of Cosmetics. To ensure consumer safety and product quality, the use of certain ingredients in cosmetics is completely prohibited.
Annex 1 of the Regulation on the Safety Standards, etc. of Cosmetics specifies the Korean names of ingredients prohibited for use in cosmetics. This list includes not only general chemical substances but also certain toxic substances, specific plant extracts, and animal-derived ingredients which is also continuously updated, and newly identified hazardous ingredients may be added.
- Prohibited ingredients cannot be used in cosmetics under any circumstances, regardless of concentration or intended use.
- If even a trace amount of a prohibited ingredient is present, the manufacture, import, and distribution of the product are all prohibited.
Regulatory Implications of the List of Prohibited Ingredients in Korean Cosmetics
Before manufacturing or importing cosmetics, companies must thoroughly review all ingredients to ensure no prohibited substances are included. Products containing prohibited ingredients will be subject to import rejection, sales prohibition, and administrative penalties. Companies should verify not only their own formulations but also cross-check MSDS, COA, and other documentation from raw material suppliers to ensure compliance.
How to Search the List of Prohibited Ingredients in Korean Cosmetics
Click here to search the List of Prohibited Ingredients in Korean Cosmetics on GlobalCosIng.
Regulations and Standards
- Cosmetic Act
- Enforcement Rule of the Cosmetic Act
- Regulation on the Safety Standards, etc. of Cosmetics
Our Services
- Korean Cosmetics Product Notification & Registration (General Cosmetics, Functional Cosmetics)
- Standardization of Cosmetic Ingredient Names in Korea
- Korean Cosmetics Label Review
- Quality Inspection
If you have any questions, please contact us at cosmetic@cirs-group.com.
