EU vs UK

EU vs UK Cosmetics Compliance

The European Union and Great Britain use separate notification systems and Responsible Person arrangements. Products must be assessed for the intended market before placement.

AspectEuropean UnionUnited Kingdom
Notification systemCPNPSCPN
Responsible PersonEU-based Responsible PersonUK-based Responsible Person
LegislationRegulation (EC) No 1223/2009UK Cosmetics Regulation
Market scopeEU Member StatesGreat Britain: England, Scotland, Wales
Market placementEU compliance required before placementUK compliance required before placement

Key differences

  • Separate notification systems.
  • Separate Responsible Person requirement.
  • No automatic mutual recognition.
  • Separate documentation expectations.
  • Labels and market data must match the relevant jurisdiction.

Practical implications

  • EU-only market: EU RP + CPNP.
  • UK-only market: UK RP + SCPN.
  • EU + UK market: dual compliance setup.

Recommended workflow

Start with formulation and label review, then determine whether the product needs EU-only, UK-only, or dual compliance.

Request assessment

Prepare your product data for review

Send the INCI or formulation, product type, intended market, label artwork where available, and raw-material information where available.

Request Compliance Assessment