The FDA regulates a wide range of manufactured goods for consumers, including food, electronics, medications, medical devices, and more. In the United States, the FDA does not require cosmetic manufacturers to register their products. However, creators and businesses can register cosmetic products with the FDA as part of the Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program (VCRP).
Even though the program is entirely voluntary, Companies should still consider registering. Joining the VCRP has many advantages, including:
- The FDA will notify registered merchants of what cosmetic ingredients do not comply with FDA specifications.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review provides information for assessing the safety of ingredients used in the formulation.
- Companies in the VCRP are promoted as part of running a responsible cosmetics business.
- Those who join the voluntary registration program will enter the government database, which helps retail stores identify safety-conscious manufacturers if you’re looking to grow your business.
- Program is likely to reduce the possibility of “violating customs clearance.”
- It gives the FDA the best estimate of products, their frequency of use, and businesses engaged in their manufacture and distribution1.
As of July, there were 103,644 cosmetic stores in the US2. However, as of October 2021, there are only 4,914 active cosmetic establishments registered with the VCRP3. With the number of benefits companies receive when registering with the VCRP, it’s surprising more companies have not done so.
If you’re thinking about registering with the Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program, or if you’re wondering if your products are considered cosmetics, EMMA International has experts to help. EMMA International’s team of experts can assist with everything from regulatory strategy to voluntary registration, post-market observance, and beyond. Give us a call at 248-987-4497 or email info@emmainternational.com to find out more!
References:
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. (2020, August 24). Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved November 8, 2021, from https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/voluntary-cosmetic-registration-program
- IBISWorld – Industry Market Research, Reports, and Statistics. (n.d.). Www.ibisworld.com. Retrieved November 9, 2021, from https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/beauty-cosmetics-fragrance-stores-united-states/
- Cosmetics. “Cosmetic Registration Reports.” FDA, 1 Mar. 2021, www.fda.gov/cosmetics/voluntary-cosmetic-registration-program/cosmetic-registration-reports.
