Updated rules for cosmetics
In January 2024, we updated the Cosmetic Products Group Standard rules for importing or making cosmetics.
Anyone importing or making cosmetics that contain a hazardous component must meet the new requirements.
Read the Decision-making Committee’s decision and its Appendix (PDF, 6.3MB)
Read the Cosmetic products Group Standard 2020 as amended January 2024 (PDF, 7.2MB)
Main changes
The changes take effect at different times. You can learn more about the different times below at: Timing for the changes
Updates to Schedules 4–8 of the group standard
Schedules 4–8 list specific rules for ingredients used in cosmetics. We have made changes to these schedules largely to align with rules in Europe.
Schedules 4–8 are now in the same document as the group standard.
Read the tracked-changes version of the updated group standard (PDF, 7.5MB)
The schedule updates
- Schedule 4 – Prohibited ingredients (you must not use these ingredients)
- Schedule 5 – Restricted ingredients (there are extra rules for these ingredients)
- Schedule 6 – Allowed colourants
- Schedule 7 – Allowed preservatives
- Schedule 8 – Allowed UV filters
Phasing out PFAS ingredients
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are being phased out from use in cosmetic products in Aotearoa New Zealand. PFAS has been added to Schedule 4, Table 2 of the group standard.
Cosmetic products containing PFAS ingredients have extended transition periods. Learn more about the transition periods for cosmetics containing PFAS ingredients below at: Timing for the changes
For more details, including how we define PFAS, read the updated version of the group standard.
Cosmetic products that contain any hazardous ingredient must now comply with the group standard
We have expanded the scope of the group standard to require any cosmetic product that contains a hazardous ingredient to comply, even if the final product is not hazardous.
We still recommend that all cosmetics products comply with the group standard.
Other changes
- Changes to nanomaterials records
- Updates on obligations for fragrance ingredients
- Other minor amendments.
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Updated rules for importing and manufacturing cosmetic products take effect
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Selling cosmetic products
You cannot sell non-compliant cosmetic products after this date, including products that comply with the previous version of the group standard, Cosmetic Products Group Standard 2020 (PDF, 199KB).
Cosmetic products containing PFAS ingredients
You cannot import or manufacture cosmetic products containing PFAS ingredients after this date.
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Non-compliant cosmetic products disposal
You must dispose of all non-compliant cosmetic products by this date, excluding products containing PFAS ingredients.
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Cosmetic products containing PFAS
You cannot sell cosmetic products containing PFAS ingredients after this date.
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PFAS cosmetic products disposal
You must dispose of any products cosmetic products containing PFAS ingredients by this date.
Related content
Updates to the Cosmetic Products Group Standard
Learn about the process we followed to consult on proposed updates to the group standard and read the associated documentation.
Guidance for importers and manufacturers: Cosmetics
Learn about the requirements for cosmetic products containing hazardous substances.
Safer homes, healthier environments: Cosmetics and toiletries
Learn about buying, using, storing, and making cosmetics and toiletries safely.