Analysis of heavy metals according to CSAR regulations

What are the Chinese CSAR regulations on cosmetics?

Its entry into force

On 29 June 2020, the Chinese State Council issued the final version of the new Cosmetic Supervision and Administration Regulation (CSAR). This regulation came into force on 1 January 2021 and is the basic regulation for cosmetic products in China. It replaces the Cosmetic Hygiene Supervision Regulation of 1989.

Heavy metal analysis to meet csar reegulations

The CSAR aims to reinforce the quality and safety of cosmetics by establishing new rules for the marketing of cosmetics, the management of new ingredients, safety assessment, post-marketing surveillance, corporate responsibility, …

Guidelines and implementation texts have been published to help cosmetic manufacturers implement these new regulations.

The Chinese CSAR establishes requirements for the safety, quality, labelling and monitoring of cosmetic products placed on the market in China. It also imposes obligations on manufacturers, importers, distributors and regulators, similar to those set out in the EU CSAR.

Specific requirements of the Chinese CSAR include the need for animal testing of imported cosmetic products, as well as the obligation to submit annual reports on the safety of cosmetic products to the NMPA.

FILAB laboratory assists you in the analysis of heavy metals according to the Chinese CSAR regulations

FILAB offers you its expertise and state-of-the-art analytical equipment (ICP-MS, ICP-AES, SAA, mercury analyser/amalgamator) for the elemental analysis of heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, nickel, antimony, etc.) and the determination of heavy metals in any type of material.

FILAB is able to analyse heavy metals in all types of matrices: creams, lotions, gels, emulsions, etc.

For more than 30 years, our laboratory has been offering a wide range of analytical services for elemental analysis:

OUR SERVICES

The positive aspects of FILAB

  • A highly qualified team

  • Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests

  • A complete analytical park of 2100m²

  • Tailor-made support

The CSAR (Cosmetic Supervision and Administration Regulation) is a set of regulations in China that govern the manufacturing, importation, and distribution of cosmetics. It was implemented on January 1st, 2021. 

 

Some key requirements under the CSAR regulation include:

  • Mandatory registration of all imported and domestically manufactured cosmetics with the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA)
  • Prohibition of animal testing for cosmetics produced and sold within China
  • Clear labeling requirements, including information such as the product name, ingredients list, manufacturer information, production date, and shelf life
  • Stricter control over the use of certain ingredients, including preservatives and colorants
  • Implementation of good manufacturing practices (GMP) and quality control procedures to ensure product safety and efficacy.

The implementation of the CSAR regulations has significant implications for the cosmetics industry, both within China and for companies that export to China. Some of the key implications are:

 

  • Increased compliance costs: Companies will need to invest in compliance-related activities such as product registration, testing, and labeling, which may increase costs.
  • Smaller market share: Companies that cannot comply with the regulations may lose access to the Chinese market, which is a significant consumer of cosmetics.
  • Market consolidation: The increased compliance costs may lead to consolidation in the industry, as smaller companies may not be able to compete with larger companies that can afford the compliance costs.
  • Shift towards natural ingredients: The regulations restrict the use of certain ingredients, which may lead to a shift towards natural and organic products.
  • Greater focus on quality control: Stricter control over manufacturing practices and ingredient usage will require companies to implement more robust quality control procedures.

 

Overall, the implementation of the CSAR regulations represents a major shift in the regulatory landscape for cosmetics in China and will likely have significant implications for the industry in the years to come.

 

FILAB provides you with a range of solutions to understand and face the new regulations that CSAR implicates for importers to China : 

  • Analysis and testing services: FILAB offers a wide range of analysis and testing services for heavy metals in cosmetics using specific equipment.
  • Consulting services: The laboratory provides consulting services to help you understand test results, troubleshoot issues, and optimize your products or processes.
  • R&D support: FILAB supports research and development efforts with analytical testing, feasibility studies, and prototype development.
  • Training and education: The laboratory offers training and education programs to help clients stay up-to-date on industry standards, regulations, and best practices.
  • Customized solutions: FILAB can create customized testing plans and solutions tailored to the specific needs of each client.

Overall, FILAB is present to help you improve your product quality, ensure regulatory compliance, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency in their processes through precise analysis and follow-up.

Non-compliance with the CSAR regulations for cosmetics can result in various risks for businesses involved in the production and sale of cosmetics in China. Here are some of the risks:

 

  • Legal penalties: Non-compliant businesses may face legal penalties, such as fines or suspension of operations.
  • Product recalls: If a non-compliant product is found on the market, it may need to be recalled, which can be costly and damage the brand's reputation.
  • Loss of market access: Non-compliant businesses may lose access to the Chinese market, which is a significant consumer of cosmetics.
  • Safety risks: Non-compliant products may not meet safety standards, which can pose health risks to consumers and increase the likelihood of product liability claims.
Clément BOENARD
Clément BOENARD Head of Analysis Department
Ask for your quote
+33 (0)3 80 52 32 05 Request
a quote