Summary of Key Points
On August 6th, the National Medical Products Administration issued China's first mandatory national standard for cosmetics, "General Requirements for Cosmetics Safety" (GB7916—2026), which will come into effect on January 1, 2028, replacing the 1987 "Hygiene Standards for Cosmetics." This marks a significant upgrade in China's cosmetics standards from focusing solely on hygiene to addressing safety throughout the entire production process. The new standard imposes stricter requirements for children's cosmetics and provides clearer regulations on the control of harmful substances. Some of the indicators are even more stringent than international standards, which will help establish a stronger safety foundation for the industry and ensure the safety of consumers when using cosmetics.
1. Major Upgrade in Standards: From "Hygiene Compliance" to "Safety Throughout the Entire Process"
The previous standard focused mainly on surface hygiene issues such as bacterial contamination. The new national standard, however, addresses the safety of the entire production chain, from raw materials to the final product—considering whether the ingredients are toxic, whether harmful substances are introduced during the manufacturing process, and whether the finished products pose any risks. This standard is mandatory, meaning all cosmetics companies must comply with it; failure to do so will result in penalties. It's like upgrading the requirement from "just not getting sick" to "being healthy and safe from start to finish," providing consumers with more comprehensive protection.
2. Children's Cosmetics: Coverage for All Children Under 12 Years Old, with Tenfold Stricter Bacterial Requirements
Children's cosmetics were a key focus of this revision. The new standard has expanded the age range from the internationally accepted "under 3 years old" to "under 12 years old," covering more children. The total number of bacteria allowed is no more than 100 per gram/milliliter, which is ten times stricter than the 1,000 allowed for regular cosmetics (equivalent to a score of 90 out of 60 on a test). Why are the requirements so strict? Children have thinner skin and weaker immune systems, and they use cosmetics for longer periods (e.g., applying moisturizers daily). Bacteria or harmful substances can be more detrimental to them. Additionally, children's cosmetics must bear a special "Little Golden Shield" logo, and their formulas must be as simple as possible, with fewer unnecessary ingredients, all to enhance safety.
3. Control of Harmful Substances: Clear Limits for 8 Types of Substances, Some Indicators Leading International Standards
The new standard specifies clear limits for eight types of harmful substances, including heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and mercury, as well as methanol and dioxane. For example, although these substances are naturally present in the environment and cannot be completely eliminated, the new standard allows very small amounts but imposes strict controls (limits range from 1 to 10 milligrams per kilogram). If ingredients that may contain methanol are used, companies must monitor their residues closely. In contrast, international ISO standards only provide testing methods without specifying exact limits; our new standards set clear boundaries, making it easier for companies to produce compliant products and for regulatory authorities to determine compliance.
4. Win-Win for Both Industry and Consumers: Strengthening Safety Foundations and Promoting Healthy Industry Development
China's cosmetics market has surpassed 1.1 trillion yuan in size, with over 6,000 companies, making it the largest beauty consumer market in the world. With the implementation of these new standards, non-compliant small workshops will be phased out, allowing compliant companies to compete more fairly and leading to a more regulated industry. For consumers, buying cosmetics (especially for children) will become much more reassuring, as the standards address all potential safety concerns. A transition period has also been set in place: products manufactured before 2028 can still be sold until their expiration dates, avoiding sudden shortages or waste.
5. aligning with International Standards: More Scientific Differentiated Management
The new standard does not apply a one-size-fits-all approach but sets different requirements based on the product's use (e.g., whether it is applied around the eyes or on the face) and the target audience (children or adults). For example, the limits for microorganisms are stricter for cosmetics used around the eyes and lips and for children's products. This aligns with the scientific principle that higher risks require stricter regulations. Some of the indicators (such as the scope of application for children's cosmetics and the limits on harmful substances) are even more advanced than international standards, reflecting China's commitment to cosmetics safety.
In summary, this new national standard represents a significant step forward for the cosmetics industry, protecting consumers (especially children) and promoting its healthy development. In the future, buying cosmetics will be an even more confident experience.