Natural cosmetics private label, step by step
From idea to product on the European market: samples, packaging, responsible person, safety assessment, dossier, CPNP and labelling.
Launching a natural cosmetic under your brand from Moroccan products is feasible even in short runs. The key is to divide the work well between the supplier and the company that places the product on the market in the EU. This is the complete process.
1. Define the product and the market
Decide what you will sell (for example, pure argan oil, a ghassoul mask or a hammam kit), to whom and through which channel. Also specify the countries where you will sell, because they determine the label languages.
2. Samples and formula
Request samples and choose the grade. If the product is a pure packed ingredient, the formula is simple; if you mix several ingredients or add perfume, you will need a closed, stable formula.
3. Container and packaging
The container is part of the product. Check compatibility between the contents and the container, and the stability of the product in that container. Also decide the box, the label and the gift presentation, if any.
4. Appoint the responsible person
In the EU, each cosmetic must have a responsible person established in the EU, who answers for its compliance with Regulation (EC) 1223/2009. It can be:
- The manufacturer established in the EU.
- The importer, if the product comes from outside the EU: if nobody else is appointed, the importer is the responsible person.
- Another person established in the EU, appointed by written mandate.
If the product is made in Morocco, it is normal for the responsible person to be your company or your importer.
5. Safety assessment
Before placing the product on the market, a qualified safety assessor must prepare the cosmetic product safety report (CPSR), in accordance with Annex I of the regulation. For this they need the formula, the raw material data, stability and microbiological tests, and the container.
6. Product information file
The responsible person must keep a product information file (PIF) available to the authorities. It includes the product description, the safety report, the manufacturing method with its good-practice statement, evidence of the claimed effects and data on animal testing.
7. Good manufacturing practice
The regulation requires manufacturing to follow good practice. Manufacturing in accordance with the harmonised standard ISO 22716 is presumed compliant. Ask the manufacturer how they demonstrate it.
8. Labelling
The label must include, among other details:
- Name or company name and address of the responsible person.
- Country of origin, if the product is imported.
- Nominal content.
- Date of minimum durability or period after opening (PAO).
- Precautions for use, if any.
- Batch number.
- Function of the product, if not clear from its presentation.
- List of ingredients with their INCI name.
Claims («moisturises», «natural»…) must meet the common criteria of Regulation (EU) 655/2013. Avoid any therapeutic claim.
9. Notification on the CPNP
Before placing the product on the market, the responsible person notifies it on the European cosmetic product notification portal (CPNP).
10. Production, shipping and follow-up
With everything approved, the batch is produced and shipped with its documentation and, once on the market, the responsible person manages cosmetovigilance, including reporting serious undesirable effects to the authorities.
Who does what with BulkMaroc
| Task | BulkMaroc | Your company |
|---|---|---|
| Product and batch control | Yes | Approves the sample |
| Container, label and packaging | Yes, with your texts | Approves design and texts |
| COA, MSDS and data sheet | Yes | — |
| Safety assessment and PIF | Provides the documentation | Yes, as the responsible person |
| CPNP notification | — | Yes |
More information on our private label page. Once you are clear about the product, request a quote with quantities and container.
Sources
- Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 on cosmetic products
- AGES (Austrian authority): information for businesses on cosmetics and the responsible person
Indicative information for professionals, reviewed on the date shown. Regulations change: confirm the requirements for your case with your regulatory or customs adviser.