For small skincare brands, dermatology-based cosmetic startups, and homegrown beauty formulators in Pune, CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1 are the most important steps before selling imported or domestically manufactured cosmetics in India. No imported cosmetic product—including sunscreen, serum, haircare, gel, toner, or dermatology-grade items—may be lawfully brought into India without CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1. This tutorial breaks down the CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1 procedure into easy steps so that small dermatological cosmetic firms in Pune may easily grasp what they need to do.
What Is CDSCO Cosmetic Registration & Form COS-1?
CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1 is the official approval that importers or brand owners must obtain from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) before placing an imported cosmetic product in the Indian market.
Form COS-1 is used for:
- Import of cosmetics
- Dermatological skincare products
- Korean, European, US-made cosmetics
- Salon-grade or professional-use items
Small businesses in Pune must complete CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1 to legally import dermatological cosmetic products.
Why Do Pune-Based Dermatological Cosmetic Businesses Need This Registration?
You need CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1 because:
- It ensures your product is safe and compliant.
- It is mandatory to import any cosmetic into India.
- Retailers and marketplaces (Nykaa, Amazon, Flipkart) demand it.
- It avoids penalties, seizures, and customs delays.
- It builds trust with dermatologists and skincare experts.
Who Can Apply for CDSCO Cosmetic Registration & Form COS-1 in Pune?
Any of the following can apply:
- Small dermatology cosmetic brands
- Skincare importers and distributors
- Private label businesses
- Dermatologist-led cosmetic startups
- D2C skincare founder
Your business must have:
- A registered company
- An Importer Exporter Code (IEC)
- A basic quality and storage facility
Products That Require CDSCO Cosmetic Registration & Form COS-1
The following imported dermatological cosmetics must undergo CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1 approval:
- Sunscreens
- Anti-acne creams
- Serums (Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide)
- Skin-lightening products
- Peels and exfoliants
- Hair serums and hair masks
- Cleansers and toners
- Moisturisers
- Lip care and eye care products
Documents Required for CDSCO Cosmetic Registration & Form COS-1
Below are the mandatory documents small businesses must prepare:
- Cover Letter
- Form COS-1 (completed online)
- Free Sale Certificate (FSC) from the foreign manufacturer
- Ingredient list with % w/w
- Product specifications
- Test reports/safety data
- Label artwork as per Rule 34
- Declaration of non-harmful ingredients
- Pack insert (if any)
- Authorisation letter from the foreign manufacturer
- Manufacturing license of the overseas factory
- Undertaking of no banned ingredients
- Batch testing reports (if required)
These documents are crucial for CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1 approval.
Step-by-Step Process for CDSCO Cosmetic Registration & Form COS-1 in Pune
Step 1: Create an SUGAM Portal Account
- Register your skincare business on the CDSCO SUGAM portal.
- This allows you to start the CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1 application.
Step 2: Select the COS-1 Application Type
- Choose “Cosmetic Registration – COS-1” from the dashboard.
Step 3: Fill Basic Business Details
Enter:
- Company name
- Address
- Importer Exporter Code
- Storage location in Pune
Step 4: Upload Mandatory Documents
- Attach all documents necessary for CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1, including FSC, label artwork, and ingredient list.
Step 5: Add Product Variants
- Enter each shade, size, and variant separately.
- CDSCO treats each variant as a different entry under CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1.
Step 6: Pay Government Fees
- Government fee: USD 1000 per product category + USD 50 per variant (as per Cosmetic Rules, 2020).
Step 7: CDSCO Document Review
- CDSCO checks all technical documents.
- If needed, they may ask for clarification.
Step 8: Approval of COS-2 Import Registration Certificate
After reviewing COS-1, CDSCO issues Form COS-2, the actual cosmetic import registration certificate, valid for 5 years.
How Long Does CDSCO Cosmetic Registration & Form COS-1 Take?
On average:
- Document preparation: 5–10 days
- CDSCO review: 30–45 days
- Total time: 40–55 days
Common Mistakes to Avoid During COS-1 Registration
Small cosmetic brands in Pune often face delays because of:
- Missing ingredient % list
- Incorrect label format
- No FSC from the manufacturer
- Wrong category selection
- Unclear manufacturing license of overseas brand
- Mismatched product images and labels
Fixing these issues early is crucial for smooth CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1 approval.
Benefits of COS-1 Registration for Dermatological Cosmetic Startups in Pune
- Legal permission to import cosmetics
- Faster customs clearance
- Acceptance on marketplaces
- Brand credibility
- Dermatologists trust compliant brands
- Helps in long-term brand scaling
- Protects from penalties and product seizures
CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1 is the backbone of safe and compliant cosmetic business operations.
Conclusion
For small dermatology cosmetic businesses in Pune, CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1 is not just a legal requirement—it’s a foundation for trust, safety, and long-term growth. By following the correct steps, preparing the right documents, and complying with CDSCO guidelines, any small skincare brand can enter the Indian market confidently and successfully.
Is COS-1 mandatory for selling imported cosmetics in India?
Yes, CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1 is compulsory for all imported cosmetics.
Can a small skincare startup in Pune apply?
Yes, any registered importer or cosmetic brand can apply.
How long is COS-1 registration valid?
The COS-2 import registration certificate is valid for 5 years.
Does each product variant need a separate registration?
Yes, every shade or size must be added under CDSCO cosmetic registration and Form COS-1.
