The List of Restricted 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. Certain ingredients are restricted in terms of usage scope, maximum allowable concentration, and application areas to ensure human safety, and can only be used if they fully comply with the specified conditions.
Annex 2 of the Regulation on the Safety Standards, etc. of Cosmetics: List of cosmetic ingredients requiring usage restrictions specifies the prohibited ingredients in Korean cosmetics which is also updated periodically based on scientific safety assessments and international regulatory trends. The main information included is as follows:
- Ingredient name (Korean name)
- Maximum allowable concentration
- Applicable product types (e.g., rinse-off products, leave-on products)
- Usage site restrictions (e.g., prohibited for use around the eyes)
- Warning statements required, if applicable
- CAS No. (Chemical Abstracts Service number)
Regulatory Implications of the List of Restricted Ingredients in Korean Cosmetics
When using restricted ingredients, all specified conditions (such as concentration and application site) must be strictly observed. Failure to comply with the conditions may result in product sales prohibition, administrative penalties, or product recalls. It is strongly recommended that cosmetics companies could review and comply with all restrictions during the product development stage.
How to Search the List of Restricted Ingredients in Korean Cosmetics
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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
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