If you’re considering manufacturing or importing face foundation in India, securing a CDSCO face foundation registration certificate is necessary. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation, the national regulatory authority, ensures that all products meet quality and safety standards. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process to get CDSCO registration for face foundation, covering all the essential documents, deadlines, and government fees you must remember.
Overview Of CDSCO Registration for Face Foundation
Write an overview, describe CDSCO, then the connection between them, and then who needs, why required, in between 4-6 lines only.
What Is Face Foundation Under the CDSCO Cosmetic Regulations?
Face foundation falls under the category of cosmetics in the Schedule S of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940 and the Rules of 1945. This includes 10 different types of foundation, like,
- Cream foundation: Known for their smooth, silky texture, cream foundations are ideal for winter use. They hydrate the skin, are easy to apply, and have a thicker consistency.
- Liquid foundation: The most popular option, liquid foundations come in a wide variety of choices.
- Cream-to-powder foundation: This foundation transforms from a cream to a powder texture upon application.
- Pressed powder foundation: Less common than others, this type works well for oily skin.
- Mineral powder foundation: Favored by those with sensitive skin, it seamlessly blends for an even tone.
- Cushion-type foundation: Gaining popularity recently, cushion foundations house liquid foundation in a compact with a sponge applicator. They provide lightweight, buildable coverage and are convenient for quick applications.
- Airbrush foundation: Available in silicone or water-based formulas, this foundation is applied using an airbrush gun.
- Serum foundation: With a lightweight and fluid texture, serum foundations often include skincare ingredients, offering light coverage that feels natural. They are perfect for those who favor a lightweight feel and natural finish.
- BB cream: Referred to as blemish balm cream.
- CC cream: Known as color corrector cream.
As these products are applied to the skin directly, CDSCO makeup registration provides safety, quality, and compliance with the regulations before marketing.
Who Needs CDSCO Cosmetic Registration for Foundation Products?
Any business or person that wants to import, produce, distribute, or sell foundation items (or other cosmetics) in India will need to acquire a CDSCO cosmetic registration. These involve:
- Importers: Businesses or persons importing foundation items from foreign markets into India.
- Manufacturers: Organisations that establish a foundation in India for local distribution.
- Distributors & Wholesalers: Companies dealing with supplying foundation items to retailers or other wholesalers.
- Marketers & Brand Owners: Even if you do not produce the product yourself, if you are branding or selling it under your brand name, CDSCO registration for the foundation is mandatory.
Documents Required for Face Foundation CDSCO Registration
To obtain CDSCO registration for a foundation, the following documents are required:
- Covering Letter
- Form COS-1 (Application Form)
- Power of Attorney (PoA)
- Free Sale Certificate (FSC)
- Product Composition
- Labelling Details
- Specifications and Test Methods
- Safety and Stability Data
- Manufacturing License (if required)
- Undertaking by the Manufacturer
CDSCO Registration Process For Face Foundation In India
To sell face foundation legally in India, you need to register with the CDSCO under the Cosmetics Rules, 2020. Here’s the step-by-step guide:
- Appoint an Authorized Indian Agent: If you’re a foreign manufacturer, you’ll need to appoint an Indian Authorised Agent (IAA) as your local agent in India.
- Prepare Required Documents: Collect all the documents required for CDSCO registration for the face foundation
- File the Application (Form COS-1): Apply Form COS-1 through the SUGAM Portal (CDSCO’s online platform).
- Payment of Fee: Pay the respective government fee online through the online portal. The fee depends on the number of products being registered.
- Scrutiny by CDSCO: CDSCO will scrutinize your application and documents for conformity with Indian cosmetic standards.
- Grant Of Registration Certificate (Form COS-2): In case all goes well, CDSCO grants the Registration Certificate (Form COS-2), enabling you to legally import, manufacture, or sell the face foundation in India.
Note: Different shades of the same formulation are treated as one product category. You do not need separate registrations for each color if the base formula is identical.
CDSCO Registration Fees For Face Foundation
To get an idea about the registration fees of Face Foundation, you can check the table below:
| Type of Fee | Approx. INR (₹) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Certificate Fee | ₹82,000.00 | Per brand/product |
| Manufacturing Site Registration Fee | ₹41,000.00 | Per the manufacturing site |
| Variant Registration Fee | ₹4,100.00 | Per shade/variant of the same formulation |
*Add a note stating the above price quoted may change, according to your product doesn’t apply to all; to get the correct fee all contact our expert*.
Timeline Of CDSCO Face Foundation Registration
The registration timeline for CDSCO cosmetic products is as follows:
| Activity | Estimated Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Appoint an Indian Authorized Agent (for importers) | 1–2 weeks |
| Gather documents (PoA, FSC, composition, labels, etc.) | 2–3 weeks (may vary) |
| File application via SUGAM Portal (Form COS-1) | 1–3 days |
| Payment of government fees | 1–2 days |
| Review and scrutiny by CDSCO | 4–8 weeks |
| Clarifications (if required by CDSCO) | Additional 1–2 weeks (if any) |
| Issuance of Registration Certificate (Form COS-2) | After approval |
Note: The timeline may vary depending on the completeness of documentation, responsiveness to queries, and CDSCO workload.
CDSCO Labelling Requirements For Face Foundation
The labelling must comply with the guidelines set out by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) under the Cosmetic Rules, 2020. Below are the key labelling requirements:
- Product Name
- Manufacturer Information
- Ingredients List
- Batch Number
- Manufacturing/Expiry Date
- Directions for Use
- Warnings and Cautions
- Net Quantity
- Country of Origin
- MRP (Maximum Retail Price)
- Registration Number
- Claims and Certifications
- Storage Instructions
Is CDSCO Registration Mandatory for Face Foundation?
Yes. As a manufacturer, importer, or seller of face foundation in India, CDSCO cosmetic registration is required before the product can be legally marketed or sold. The product should:
- Meet BIS standards (IS 4707 Part I & II)
- Utilise only approved ingredients.
- Does not contain banned substances.
- Adhere to correct labelling procedures.
Non-compliance may lead to product seizure, fines, and lost business opportunities.
Why Choose ELT As Your CDSCO Registration Consultant?
ELT is your reliable companion in processing CDSCO registration. With expert experience in Indian cosmetics regulations, we ensure that your base products comply with all approval requirements. We also offer complete support, from document preparation to submission and follow-up, ensuring a seamless and quick process.
We have a strong relationship with regulatory authorities, which helps us process clearances faster. We also practice transparent pricing with no hidden charges. Whether you are a small startup or a large multinational firm, ELT is committed to your success in India.
Do I Need Separate Registration For Each Foundation Shade?
No. If the formulation is the same, you can register all shades under one product category.
How Long Does The CDSCO Foundation Registration Take?
The process usually takes 3 to 6 months, depending on how complete and accurate the documentation is.
Is CDSCO Registration Required For Domestically Manufactured Foundation?
For domestic products, a manufacturing license from the State Licensing Authority is required, not CDSCO import registration.
What Happens If I Sell Unregistered Foundation Products?
It is considered illegal and may result in penalties, product confiscation, or cancellation of business licenses.
Can Private Label Brands Register Under Their Name?
Yes, private label or third-party brands can apply via their authorised Indian agent or importer.
