Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR)
To legally sell cosmetic products in the UK, the Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR) is a mandatory requirement. It certifies that your product is safe for human health when used under normal or reasonably foreseeable conditions.
Here’s how to obtain a CPSR for your cosmetic products:
Steps to Obtain a CPSR:
Engage a Qualified Safety Assessor:
- The CPSR must be conducted by a qualified professional, such as a toxicologist, cosmetic chemist, or another expert with relevant qualifications and experience.
- You can hire a cosmetic safety assessor from specialist companies or freelance consultants who provide safety assessments.
Prepare the Necessary Information for the Assessor: The safety assessor will require the following information to prepare the CPSR:
- Full Product Formula: The complete list of ingredients, including percentages and any raw material safety data sheets (SDS).
- Product Specifications: Information on how the product is made, including pH, viscosity, and microbiological stability.
- Raw Material Documentation: Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each ingredient from suppliers.
- Packaging Information: Details of the packaging material, which should be compatible with the product.
- Intended Use and Warnings: Clear information on how the product should be used and any precautionary statements.
- Label Information: Complete labeling, including the Responsible Person’s details, batch code, and ingredients.
Product Testing (if applicable):
- You may need to conduct certain tests, such as microbiological tests, preservative efficacy tests, or stability testing, especially for water-based products.
- The safety assessor may recommend these tests if the product type or formulation requires them.
Receive the CPSR:
- Once the safety assessor has reviewed all the data, they will issue the CPSR, which consists of two parts:
- Part A: Cosmetic Product Safety Information – This includes detailed information about the product's composition, use, and exposure to the skin.
- Part B: Cosmetic Product Safety Assessment – The safety assessor's conclusion on whether the product is safe under normal or foreseeable use.
Keep the CPSR on File:
- The CPSR must be included in the Product Information File (PIF) and kept readily accessible for authorities. The RP is responsible for ensuring this is available at all times.
Where to Find Safety Assessors:
- Consultancy Companies: Some companies specialize in cosmetic regulatory compliance and safety assessments, such as Formula Botanica, Cosmetic Safety Assessments, or Delphic HSE.
- Freelance Cosmetic Chemists and Toxicologists: Many professionals offer their services independently.
- Online Platforms: Some websites allow you to find cosmetic safety assessors globally, such as on professional freelancer websites like Upwork or cosmetic regulation-focused platforms.