Are you a manufacturer or importer looking to sell hair dyes and colors in India? Then, understanding cosmetic registration for hair color and hair dyes is essential before entering the market.
The Indian cosmetic market is flourishing, with demand for beauty and personal care products increasing steadily each day. To enter into the hair care business understand everything you need to know about hair dye registration.
In this article, we have explained everything about cosmetic certification for hair color and hair dyes, documents required, cost, etc.
What Is Cosmetic Registration For Hair Color And Hair Dyes?
Cosmetic registration is a must if you want to sell hair color or dye products in India. It’s a process where the CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organization) checks your product to ensure it’s safe & meets quality standards. Whether your product is made in India or imported, you need to get a Cosmetic Registration Certificate before it can be legally sold in the market.
Products That Require Registration
The following products must be registered with the regulatory authority to obtain approval for cosmetic registration for hair color and hair dyes and hair colors.
- Permanent hair dyes
- Semi-permanent hair color
- Ammonia-free hair color
- Herbal hair colorants
- Hair bleach or lightener
Step-by-Step Process For Hair Dyes and Hair Color Registration
Applying for cosmetic registration for hair color and hair dyes, under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940 involves various steps. Such as,
Identify product category
Gather necessary documents
Apply via the SUGAM Portal
Regulatory review and testing
Grant of cosmetic registration certificate
For better understanding, we have elaborated each step below.
1. Identify Product Category
To register your product under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940, first, you need to classify the product category. These categories can be haircare, skincare, makeup, etc. Registering for the proper product category is important, as misclassification can lead to delays in approval.
2. Gather Necessary Documents
After the classification, the next step is to gather all the required documents to obtain a cosmetic certification for hair dyes and hair colors. This step can be complicated as the documentation requirements may differ based on the nature of business operations, whether you are a manufacturer or an importer. Accurate and complete documents are crucial, as wrong information can lead to delays or even rejection of the application.
3. Submit the Application via the SUGAM Portal
After ensuring all the necessary documents, now apply digitally on the SUGAM Portal. A physical submission may also be required in some areas.
4. Regulatory Review & Testing
CDSCO may review the formulation and send a sample for lab testing to verify ingredients like PPD, Ammonia, etc, which can cause an allergy.
5. Grant of Cosmetic Registration Certificate
On reviewing and ensuring all the aspects and meeting the cosmetics regulatory compliance standards, CDSCO grants the certificate.
Documents Required For Cosmetic Registration For Hair Color And Hair Dyes
Below we have provided you with a list of documents you may require to obtain a certificate for hair dyes and hair colors.
- Covering Letter
- Requesting registration and listing product details
- Form 42 (Application Form)
- Duly signed and filled by the authorized applicant
- Product Labels & Packaging Artwork
- Labels must comply with Indian cosmetic labeling rules (ingredient list, manufacturer/importer info, warnings, etc.)
- Ingredient List with Concentration
- Complete list of all ingredients with exact % used in the formulation
- Specifications and Test Methods
- Physico-chemical and microbiological specifications for each product
- Certificate of Analysis (CoA)
- From the manufacturer’s in-house or third-party lab
- Safety and Stability Data
- Evidence that the product is safe and stable under normal storage conditions
- Product Information Sheet (PIS)
- Details of formulation, manufacturing process, and intended use
- Declaration of No Animal Testing (if applicable)
Note: The list comprises common documents for both importers and manufacturers. To know in detail it is recommended to consult with ELT Corporate Pvt. Ltd.
Key Benefits of Obtaining Hair Dye and Hair Colour Registration
Obtaining certification for hair dyes and hair color business isn’t just a legal requirement, but also offers several advantages that can boost your product credibility and market reach. These key benefits are as follows:
- Regulatory Compliance: Obtaining CDSCO registration for hair colour and hair dyes ensures it meets safety and quality standards, preventing future legal complications or market withdrawal.Â
- Market Access: Registering with CDSCO under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act gives you market access. Without proper registration, you can’t legally sell or import into India. Certification acts as a green light for entry into one of the world’s fastest-growing cosmetics markets.
- Consumer Trust: A registered product conveys safety, quality, and transparency. These three concerns are most valued by modern consumers in the selection of hair care products.
- Custom Clearance: Correct documentation makes and accelerates customs clearance procedures fast and prevents expensive delays at the border.
- Competitive Advantage: Having a registration certificate gains consumer trust in the market. This means consumers give priority to your product over unregistered competitors.
Timeline & Cost To Obtain Cosmetic Registration For Hair Color And Hair Dyes
Understanding the timeline and financial investment involved in the cosmetic registration for hair dyes and hair color is crucial for efficient planning. Here’s what you need to know:
- Timeline: 90–120 working days (may vary based on product complexity)
- Cost: Varies depending on the number of SKUs and whether it’s domestic or imported. Government fees + consulting charges apply.
Note: The cost of cosmetic certification for hair color and hair dyes may also include lab testing and document translation services.
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid During Cosmetic Registration of Hair Colors & Dyes
Here are some common mistakes you should avoid while applying for cosmetic registration of hair dyes and hair colors:
- Submitting incomplete documentation
- Incorrect ingredient disclosure
- Mislabeling (e.g., making therapeutic claims)
- Using banned or restricted chemicals
- Missing PoA or Free Sale Certificates for imports
Why Choose ELT Corporate?
At ELT Corporate Pvt. Ltd., we turn complexity into clarity. Our experienced regulatory experts help you at every step of the journey, ensuring a smooth and successful registration with regulatory compliance. We offer:
- End-to-end regulatory consultation tailored to your product type and business model.
- Comprehensive dossier preparation that meets CDSCO’s strict documentation standards.
- Seamless SUGAM portal application management, minimizing delays and errors.
- Direct liaison with CDSCO authorities to expedite approvals and address queries promptly.
- Post-approval support, including renewals, updates, and ongoing compliance management.
Is Cosmetic Registration Mandatory For Selling Hair Dyes In India?
Yes, all imported and domestically manufactured hair dyes and hair colors must be registered with CDSCO before they can be sold in India.
How Long Does It Take To Get Cosmetic Certificate For Hair Dyes?
It typically takes between 90 to 120 working days, depending on the product and document readiness.
Can I Import Ammonia-Free Or Herbal Hair Colors Without Registration?
No, even herbal or organic variants require cosmetic registration, as they are still considered cosmetics under Indian law.
What Documents Are Required For Cosmetic Registration Of Hair Dyes In India?
A complete list includes Form 42, ingredient details, Free Sale Certificate, CoA, product labels, and more depending on product type. You can refer to the section above for the complete list of required documents needed for cosmetic registration.
Can I Sell Hair Dye Products Online Without Registration?
No, you can’t sell Hair Dye products online without registration. Even for online marketplaces like Amazon or Nykaa, cosmetic registration is mandatory for listing.
What Happens If I Skip Registration For My Hair Dye Product?
Unregistered products are liable for seizure, penalties, and legal action under Indian cosmetic law.
