Looking to sell after-shaving gel in India? Before your product hits the shelf or goes live on online shops, there is one thing you simply cannot do without: CDSCO cosmetic registration for after-shaving gel. Cosmetics fall under the regulation of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in India, and all domestic or imported products must comply with their rules.
Official registration is compulsory for after-shaving gels, which fall under the definition of cosmetics in India. If you are launching a new line of men’s grooming or adding more to your skincare offerings, you should understand the registration process so you do not suffer import refusals, legal issues, or delays.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the whole procedure of CDSCO cosmetic registration of after-shaving gel, right from document requirements to application steps, timelines.
Is After Shaving Gel Considered a Cosmetic in India?
Yes, shaving gel as a cosmetic product in India if it is for moisturizing, soothing, or for perfume purposes and doesn’t state any that it has any medicinal or therapeutic action. If it says it heals skin disease like razor burns or contains medicinal ingredients, then it is a drug.
Why Is the CDSCO Cosmetic Registration For After-Shaving Gel Mandatory
Here are the primary reasons why registration is essential:
- Legal Market Entry: CDSCO registration ensures that after-shave gels can be legally imported and sold in India.
- Consumer Safety: The registration process verifies product safety through documentation and compliance with ingredient regulations.
- Labeling Compliance: It ensures that product labels meet Indian standards and do not mislead consumers.
- Market Trust: Registered products demonstrate adherence to official quality and safety norms, enhancing consumer confidence.
Note: Selling unregistered aftershave products in India can lead to penalties, product seizure, or a ban on sale.
Step-by-Step Process of CDSCO Cosmetic Registration for After-Shaving Gel
To import and sell after-shave gel in India legally, the manufacturer or importer should complete the following steps:
Step 1: Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative
If the manufacturer is a foreign company, it must appoint an Authorized Indian Agent who holds a valid cosmetic import license. This agent will be the interface with CDSCO.
Step 2: Registration on the SUGAM Portal
All applications are submitted online through the CDSCO SUGAM Portal. The applicants need to register and submit Form COS-1 to initiate the process.
Step 3: Prepare the Documentation That Is Required
Proper documentation is required for registration approval. The documents mentioned below are typically required:
Step 4: Remit the Government Fees
The CDSCO fee for an application depends on the number of products and manufacturing sites engaged. Payment must be done online.
Step 5: Scrutiny and Evaluation of Documents
CDSCO personnel verify the documents for completeness and correctness. Further testing of the product or inspection of the premises might be required in some cases.
Step 6: Grant of Registration Certificate (Form COS-2)
CDSCO will grant a Registration Certificate (COS-2), which is three years and renewable thereafter, if everything goes fine.
Documents Required For The After-shaving Gel
Here are the key documents required for cosmetic registration for after-shaving gel:
- Covering Letter
- Form COS-1 (Application form)
- Free Sale Certificate (FSC) from the country of origin
- Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Certificate
- Product Information File (PIF)
- Ingredient List with INCI names and concentrations
- Label the Sample as per Indian labeling rules
- Pack Insert/Leaflet, if any
- Undertaking from the Manufacturer on product safety and compliance
- Authorization Letter/Power of Attorney for Indian Authorized Agent
- Manufacturing License of the Manufacturer
- Details of Packaging Sizes
- Testing Certificates, if applicable
What Is The Role of CDSCO In Cosmetic Product Regulation?
CDSCO is the Indian national regulatory body for cosmetics with a mandate to safeguard consumer interests, public health, and public safety. CDSCO powers and functions have been outlined under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Cosmetic Rules, 2020. Some of the significant activities of CDSCO for the regulation of cosmetics are:
- Supervisory Control: CDSCO oversees import, registration, and quality of cosmetics in India to allow only safe and compliant products to enter the market.
- Import Registration: Import cosmetics in India are obligated to register with the CDSCO. Requirements for registration are given as FSC, PIF, ingredient list, and safety test documents.
- Labeling and Enforcement of Compliance: CDSCO makes labeling challenging issues India-compliant, i.e., accurate declaration of ingredients, warning labels, expiration dates, and manufacturer details.
- Regulation of Ingredients for Safety: CDSCO regulates ingredients and bans dangerous substances on a global scale, thereby not selling banned or illegal ingredients.
- Market Monitoring and Testing: CDSCO conducts testing and inspections in association with state licensing agencies to ensure long-term compliance of products in the market.
- Issue of Cosmetic Registration Certificate (Form COS-2): CDSCO issues the registration certificate legally after critically examining applications for the sale or import of cosmetic products in India.
- Consumer Safety and Recalls: CDSCO initiates recalls or prohibitions based on consumer complaints or safety issues.
- International Standardization with Conformity: CDSCO is also aligning itself with international regulatory standards like CE Cosmetics Regulation and ASEAN Cosmetic Directive, thereby maintaining a similar level of quality and safety.
Labeling Requirements For After Shaving Gel
Following are the CDSCO labeling requirements for after-shaving gel, as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945:
- Product Name
- Net Contents
- Manufacturing Date and Date of Expiry
- Batch Number
- Manufacturer’s Name and Address
- Country of Origin
- Ingredient List in reverse order of weight
- Directions for Use
- Warnings or Precautions
- CDSCO Registration Number
- Importer’s Name and Address
CDSCO Registration Timeline and Cost
Here is the information on the CDSCO registration timeline and cost for after-shaving gel:
| Category | Details |
| Registration Timeline | 90 to 180 days (approximate) |
| Government Application Fee | ~USD 250 per product (₹20,000–₹25,000 approx.) |
| Additional CDSCO Fees | Extra fees apply for multiple manufacturing sites |
| Document Legalization Costs | ₹10,000–₹80,000 (varies by country) |
| Labeling Compliance Costs | ₹5,000–₹15,000 (if redesign or translations needed) |
| Consultant/Agent Fees | ₹50,000–₹1,50,000 (optional but recommended) |
| Total Estimated Cost Range | ₹1,00,000 to ₹2,50,000 (including all services) |
Can After Shaving Gel Be Sold Online Without Registration?
No, After Shaving Gel cannot be sold online in India without proper registration if it falls under the definition of a cosmetic as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
Is herbal After-shaving gel Exempt From Registration?
No. Even if the product is herbal, if it is imported or sold as a cosmetic, it requires CDSCO registration unless it is certified under AYUSH.
Can I Market Aftershave Gel With claims like “Cures Rashes”?
No. Such claims categorize the product as a drug, requiring separate approval. Avoid therapeutic claims if you wish to register it as a cosmetic.
How long Is The Registration Valid?
The CDSCO cosmetic registration is valid for three years and can be renewed with updated documentation.
Can One Registration Cover Multiple Variants?
No. Each formula or variant (e.g., different fragrances or colors) needs separate registration.
Can I Start Importing While Registration Is Pending?
No. You can only begin importing after receiving the COS-2 certificate from CDSCO.
