Selling Homemade Cosmetics in NZ

You've made a batch of lip balms or moisturiser, your friends love it and you've tried it out at the local markets with a good response. You've possibly listed them on TradeMe or even created your own online store.

"What are the rules for selling cosmetics in NZ when I've made them at home in my kitchen?" I often get asked this question, and here are some guidelines for you.

According to Medsafe:

A cosmetic is a product used to cleanse, protect or beautify the hair or skin. Cosmetics must not have a therapeutic purpose or contain a scheduled ingredient.

A product marketed as a cosmetic must comply with the Cosmetic Products Group Standard 2017 and the Additional Schedules, which is published by the Environmental Protection Authority. Regulations 24 and 26-36 of the Medicines Regulations 1984 also have requirements that apply to cosmetics.

There is no approval or registration process in New Zealand for cosmetics that meet these requirements. It remains the responsibility of the sponsor (ie, you) to ensure the cosmetic is made to an acceptable quality and is safe to use.

View Part 1 of the Guideline on the Regulation of Therapeutic Products in New Zealand for further guidance on cosmetics, or contact the Environmental Protection Agency for further advice.

In these documents, you will also learn about labelling requirements.

If you get stuck, or are feeling confused, please drop me an email, or join my Amor Facebook Group where we discuss cosmetic formulating and regulations.

Tania :-)