Do I Need a CPSR for My Cosmetic Product?

If you’re developing or selling cosmetic products in the UK or EU, understanding your legal obligations is crucial — and one of the most important is the Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR).

What Is a CPSR?

A CPSR is a formal safety assessment that confirms your cosmetic product is safe for consumer use. It includes:

  • A review of your product’s formulation and raw materials
  • Preservative Efficacy Testing (PET) and Stability Testing data
  • Packaging analysis
  • Toxicological evaluation of ingredients

This report must be completed by a qualified safety assessor and is a legal requirement under both UK and EU cosmetic regulations (EC No. 1223/2009 and Schedule 34 of the Product Safety and Metrology SI Regulations).

So, Do You Need a CPSR?

Yes — if your product is a cosmetic.

Any product that meets the definition of a cosmetic and is intended for sale in the UK or EU must have a CPSR before it can be legally marketed.

A cosmetic product is defined as one intended to be applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering appearance — including skincare, makeup, haircare, and personal hygiene products.

If your product:

  • Is applied externally (not ingested, inhaled, injected, or implanted)
  • Is intended to improve appearance or hygiene
  • Is not classified as a medicine, biocide, or aromatherapy product

…then it likely falls under cosmetic regulations and requires a CPSR.

What Happens If You Don’t Have a CPSR?

Selling a cosmetic product without a CPSR is illegal in the UK and EU. It can result in:

  • Product recalls
  • Fines or legal action
  • Damage to your brand’s reputation

How Melbec Can Help

Melbec Microbiology offers a full suite of regulatory services, including:

  • CPSRs with a turnaround time of up to 10 working days (once all documents are received)
  • Support with Product Information Files (PIFs)
  • Label reviews for compliance
  • INCI list creation
  • Global compliance checks for international markets

Their experienced regulatory team will guide you through the process, ensuring your product meets all legal requirements before launch.

Not Sure If Your Product Qualifies?

If you’re unsure whether your product needs a CPSR, Melbec’s team can help you determine the correct classification and next steps. Reach out for a consultation or quote via clientservices@melbecmicrobiology.co.uk.

Stay compliant. Stay confident.

Let Melbec help you bring safe, high-quality cosmetic products to market.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Related Posts

    • Melbec Microbiology Wins Award for Innovative Colony Counter Project

      Published On: March 10, 2026

      We are incredibly proud to share that Melbec Microbiology was highly commended for the Secure the Future Award at this year’s Innovate to Elevate Awards, a recognition we are truly honoured to have received. This [...]

    • Meet Melbec – Chris

      Published On: February 25, 2026

      With a career spanning food, water, and environmental microbiology, Chris joined Melbec in search of a fresh challenge and a place to reignite his passion for the fascinating world of bacteria and fungi. Since then, [...]

    • Celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science

      Published On: February 11, 2026

      Every year on 11 February, the world comes together to celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. It’s an opportunity to recognise the women who drive scientific innovation, inspire the next generation, [...]