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Understanding the Cosmetic Product Notification (CPN) in the UK
If you plan to sell cosmetic products in the UK, complying with regulations is crucial to protect both consumers and your business. One of the key requirements is the Cosmetic Product Notification (CPN), enforced by the UK Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS). This process ensures that cosmetic products meet the standards of the UK Cosmetic Regulation (UKCR) and are safe for public use.
In this blog, we’ll explain what the CPN is, why it matters, and how it differs from the European Union’s notification system.
The CPN is a legal requirement for all cosmetic products sold in the UK. Manufacturers or importers must submit detailed information about their products through the UK SCPN Portal (Submit Cosmetic Product Notifications). Completing this process ensures that:
Products comply with UK safety regulations.
Products can be traced if there are any safety concerns.
Businesses are legally permitted to market their products in the UK.
While the UK CPN process is similar to the European Union’s Cosmetic Product Notification Portal (CPNP), there are key differences:
Regional Coverage:
The UK SCPN Portal applies to products sold in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales).
Products sold in the EU require a separate notification through the EU CPNP.
Dual Compliance:
If your products are sold in both regions, you must submit notifications to both systems.
Understanding these distinctions is important to ensure your products meet all necessary regulations.
If your business already has Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification, this can make it easier to meet UK safety standards. GMP ensures that your products are consistently produced and controlled to a high standard, which supports the CPN process.
However, keep in mind that:
GMP and CPN are separate requirements.
Holding a GMP certification does not exempt you from completing a Cosmetic Product Notification.
This highlights the importance of fully complying with all UK regulations.
Meeting the UK CPN requirements shows your commitment to product safety and helps build trust with consumers. Failing to comply can result in penalties, product recalls, or even a ban on selling your products in the UK.
By completing the CPN process, you:
Ensure your products are safe for consumers.
Reduce the risk of regulatory issues.
Gain access to one of the world’s leading beauty markets.
The CPN process can seem complex, but our team is here to help. We specialise in supporting cosmetic manufacturers and importers with:
Efficiently completing the CPN submission process.
Ensuring full compliance with UK safety standards.
Helping businesses successfully enter the UK market.
If you’re expanding into the UK or need assistance with regulatory compliance, we can guide you through every step.
The Cosmetic Product Notification (CPN) is a vital part of selling cosmetic products in the UK. Understanding the process, the differences between UK and EU systems, and the role of GMP can help you navigate the requirements with confidence.
By staying compliant, you can ensure your products are safe, your business is protected, and you can take full advantage of opportunities in the UK beauty market.
Need help with the CPN process or other regulatory requirements? Contact our experts today!