South Korea partially revises the Cosmetics Act.

A partial amendment to the Cosmetics Act was promulgated on February 6, 2024, to provide a legal basis for cosmetics manufacturers to apply to the Minister of Food and Drug Safety for approval or modification of raw materials that cannot be used in the manufacture of cosmetics and to clearly reorganize the text so that the contents of cosmetics can be checked from ouside of the bottle. 

1. Purpose of Amendment: 

• The amendment provides a legal basis for cosmetics manufacturers to apply to the Minister of Food and Drug Safety. 

• It allows for the release or modification of raw materials that cannot be used in the production of cosmetics. 

• The aim is to increase transparency and allow external verification of cosmetic contents. 

2. Changes Introduced: 

• The amendment focuses on Cosmetics Safety Standards. 

• It authorises certain entities (such as cosmetics manufacturers, distributors, or research institutes) to apply for specific actions related to raw materials. 

• These actions include: 

        - Cancellation or modification of designated or publicly announced raw materials. 

        - Designation and publication of standards for the use raw materials not previously designated or announced. 

        - Changes to standards for the use of raw materials that have been designated and publicly announced. 

3. Review Process: 

• When an application is submitted, the head of the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety reviews its validity. 

• If the validity is confirmed, the following actions may be taken: 

         - Cancel or modify previously designated raw materials. 

         - Announce new standards for previously unspecified raw materials. 

         - Change standards for previously designated raw materials. 

• The applicant will be notified in writing of the results of the review. 

4. Labelling and Advertising: 

• Article 10 specifies matters that must be included in the labelling of cosmetic products. 

• For example, product labels must include contact information and identify fragrance allergens. 

• Labels for products intended for use by licensed professionals must indicate this restriction. 

This amendment is a significant step towards ensuring safety and transparency in the cosmetics industry.