The Canadian cosmetics market continues to grow, driven by demand for skincare, personal care, and clean beauty products. However, importers must comply with strict federal regulations to ensure products meet health and safety standards.
One of the key compliance requirements is submitting a Cosmetics Notification Form (CNF) to Health Canada. This article outlines the steps, responsibilities, and documentation required to legally import cosmetic products into Canada—without promotional intent, focusing purely on regulatory education.
1. What Is a Cosmetic Under Canadian Law?
In Canada, a cosmetic is defined under the Food and Drugs Act as “any substance or mixture of substances manufactured, sold or represented for use in cleansing, improving or altering the complexion, skin, hair or teeth.”
This broad definition includes:
- Makeup
- Perfume
- Skincare creams and lotions
- Hair products
- Deodorants
- Oral hygiene products
Products that claim to treat or prevent a condition (e.g., acne treatment, dandruff shampoo) may be classified as drugs or natural health products, which require different approvals.
2. The Role of the Cosmetics Notification Form (CNF)
Before importing or selling a cosmetic in Canada, importers must submit a CNF to Health Canada within 10 days of the product’s first sale. This is mandatory under the Cosmetic Regulations.
The CNF includes:
- Product name and form (cream, lotion, spray, etc.)
- Purpose and area of application
- Full list of ingredients and their concentrations
- Manufacturer and importer contact details
- Label sample (bilingual if sold nationally)
Failure to file or update a CNF can result in enforcement actions, including product recalls or import refusals at the border.
3. Bilingual Labeling Requirements
All cosmetic products sold in Canada must be labeled in both English and French. Labels must display:
- Product identity and function
- Net quantity
- Ingredient list (using INCI names)
- Name and address of the responsible party
- Warnings or usage instructions (if applicable)
These labeling rules apply even to online and private-label products.
4. Verifying Ingredient Safety: The Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist
Health Canada maintains the Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist, which outlines:
- Prohibited ingredient
- Restricted ingredients (allowed with conditions such as concentration limits or warning labels)
Before filing your CNF, cross-reference your formula with this list to avoid delays or rejections.
Also read: Importing Beauty Products into Canada: Health Canada & Customs Compliance
5. CNF Filing Tips for Importers
- Use Health Canada’s online Cosmetic Notification Form (PDF or portal submission)
- Keep a record of each notification and updates if formulations change
- Ensure consistency between CNF, invoice descriptions, and product labels
- Non-resident importers (NRIs) are also eligible but must have a Canadian mailing address for communications
6. Other Import Considerations
Aside from the CNF and labeling:
- Verify the product’s HS code under the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
- Be aware of possible duties, though most cosmetics fall under low or 0% tariff categories
- Maintain accurate import declarations to avoid Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs)
7. Final Thoughts
Importing cosmetics into Canada isn’t overly complex—but it does require precision and full compliance with Health Canada’s rules. By filing the Cosmetics Notification Form (CNF), ensuring bilingual labeling, and validating ingredients, importers can avoid delays, border issues, or compliance violations.
As regulations evolve, staying informed through official resources is key to a successful import strategy.
If you’re navigating cosmetic imports into Canada for the first time, working with an experienced online customs broker can help you avoid delays and ensure compliance with Health Canada’s requirements.
