BIS Certification for Cosmetics in India: Your Key to Legal Compliance & Market Trust

The Bureau of Indian Standards sets the regulations under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1945 for cosmetic products. With the satisfactory guidelines, entrepreneurs are setting the goal to make a place in the cosmetic sector. Imagine launching a cosmetic industry in a booming Indian market. However, the manufacturers, distributors, and retailers who have a desire to grow in the cosmetic sector failed to meet the regulatory requirements. The governing body mandates the compulsory registration for a BIS certificate for cosmetics. 

For the manufacturers, the BIS license plays the role of the golden ticket to provide entry into Indian markets. Whether you are dreaming of manufacturing in the lipstick industry or want to regulate the importation of global skincare products, the Bureau of Indian Standards ensures your products meet stringent quality and safety benchmarks. Let’s delve into this blog to understand the complexities of BIS registration and how certification is key to legal compliance and market trust. 

Why is BIS Certification Essential for Cosmetics in India? 

In India, the cosmetic industry serves as an innovation and opportunity field. To protect the consumer from hazardous products, the BIS certification mark is an essential stamp to obtain approval for market entry. The Schedule S of the Drug and Cosmetic Rules, 1945, outlines the mandatory use of a BIS registration certificate for cosmetic products to be sold in India. The certification is responsible for ensuring the products (lipstick, cream, etc.) meet the standard requirements before presenting them in the markets. However, without the certification, the operators make their business undeveloped and away from potential success.

Without the BIS license, the chances of a potential penalty and the business seizure increase. BIS certification is not only about meeting the legal requirements, but it is also about boosting the consumers’ trust with the ISI symbol, gaining market access, and building the brand reputation. From heavy metal testing to ingredient compliance, BIS sets the regulatory compliance standards for cosmetics in India.

What are the BIS license types for Cosmetics?

For the cosmetic products, the common Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) types are correlated to the ISI mark and the CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme). Overall, there are three major types of BIS licenses. Well, the ECO Mark Scheme is also included in BIS certification types. Here is a more detailed breakdown:

1. IS certification (ISI Mark)

Purpose: The ISI mark is the primary symbol for all cosmetic products that are manufactured and sold in Indian markets. 

Mechanism: The cosmetic manufacturers visit the governing official’s website to apply for a BIS license apply online. The ISI mark is associated with BIS registration, which can be displayed on products. This visible ISI mark indicates that the products comply with the relevant regulatory framework. 

Benefit: The IS certification protects consumers from hazardous products, offering the assurance of safety and quality.

2. Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS):

Purpose: The governing authority made the live CRS for certain categorized products that also include cosmetics. This is introduced to regulate the specific safety and quality grades before presenting them in the Indian market. 

Mechanism: The cosmetic manufacturer is required to obtain a BIS license under this scheme to obtain the CRS certification. 

Benefit: The compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) is beneficial in offering qualified and safe products to customers. Also, prevents substandard products. 

3. Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS):

Purpose: With the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), the global manufacturers are eligible to obtain the BIS license to display the ISI mark on their products. For the foreign importers, it is crucial to meet the relevant Indian authority requirements. 

Mechanism: Under the FMCS, the global business operator of cosmetic products can apply for a BIS certificate online. 

Benefit: A key ticket to provide the entry of global manufactured cosmetic products into the booming Indian markets.  

4. Eco Mark Scheme:

Purpose: Under the ECO Mark scheme, only those cosmetic products are allowed to be sold in the Indian market that meet the environment-friendly requirements outlined in Indian standards. 

Mechanism: By ensuring the products are nature-friendly, the cosmetic manufacturers can apply for a BIS license online under the ECO Mark scheme. 

Benefit: It is a way to demonstrate the acceptability of nature-friendly and sustainable manufacturing practices. 

User Query: BIS Certification Schemes In India

Pitfalls of Securing BIS Certification for Cosmetics Products 

For the new entrepreneurs of cosmetics, navigating the BIS registration process can feel more complex. The application route possesses multiple challenges that can make it difficult to complete. Here are the common pitfalls that arise during the BIS registration with their solutions:

Pitfall 1: Complex Documentation

The application form for BIS certification requires a bundle of paperwork. The documentation includes complete information on manufacturing records, product lab testing reports, and the compliance declaration. Well, the applicant can face the BIS license rejection or delay due to a single mistake related to documentation. 

Solution: Partner with Legal Raasta experts to understand which types of documents are required for the registration. The BIS consultancy streamlines the paperwork procedure and ensures greater accuracy for certification. 

Pitfalls 2:  Testing Requirements

Before presenting the cosmetic products in Indian markets, the manufacturers are required to send the products for lab testing records. The product must be tested in approved BIS laboratories. As it is a governing laboratory, it will be a little expensive and time-consuming. 

Solution: Before the BIS registration application, spend time on product quality and plan testing early for the cosmetic products. To avoid the cost, build your own testing place for products. 

Pitfall 3: Unknown Regulations

The startup fails to adhere to the Bureau of Indian standards set under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. The strict laws are outlined to protect the consumers and offer safety. 

Solution: Appoint a consultant or learn about the BIS rules and regulations through social media websites. Make a note related to product standards requirements. 

Pitfalls 4: Lack of Local Representation

To obtain the BIS license online in India, the foreign manufacturers need an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR). However, appointing a reliable AIR can be tricky. 

Solution: Connect with a trusted and experienced BIS consultant who can work for the foreign cosmetic manufacturers as AIR. 

Pitfalls 5: Regulatory Updates

Due to the update in outline guidelines for the new regulations, cosmetic manufacturers fail to comply with the requirements. BIS standards staying compliant requires vigilance. 

Solution: Follow the social media pages of the Bureau of Indian Standards and stay updated with the regulatory changes. 

Pitfall 6: Time Constraints: 

The BIS registration process is a bit lengthy. The registration takes 4-6 weeks for the domestic cosmetic manufacturers. In the case of a global manufacturer, the application procedure exceeds 6 months. 

Solution: To obtain the BIS license without consuming time, make an early decision by submitting all the required paperwork. Adhere to the scheduled timetable to avoid market delay and license rejection. 

What are the Key Indian Standards for Cosmetics?

All Indian manufacturers who are connected to the cosmetic products’ importation, distribution, and selling are required to meet a certain standard. The product’s standards are highlighted in Schedule S. Let’s take a snapshot of major standards. 

• IS 4707 (Part 1): A certified colorant by the government must be used to manufacture cosmetic products like cream and lipstick. Colorants are responsible for changing the surface color of a substance. These standards guarantee that the product is both safe and compliant with regulations.
• IS 4707 (Part 2): The part of Indian Standard 4707 includes listing the raw materials that are not certified by the governing body. It also adds giving knowledge to manufacturers to avoid such raw materials. 
• IS 9875:1990: It mentions the specification of lipsticks, covering the substances used for quality and safety purposes. 
• IS 6608:2004: Standardization set to cover the specification for skin creams, including testing exemptions for pre-tested raw materials.
• IS 6356: It outlines the regulatory framework for toothpaste standards, guaranteeing safety for oral care products.
• IS 11142: This Indian Standard specifies the henna powder specifications. The standardization is set to focus on natural ingredient purity.

Sum Up | BIS for Cosmetics in India

In essence, securing a BIS certificate for cosmetic products is the key tool to enhance the market presentation. It further helps to understand the legal compliance and is connected to the regulatory framework. Make a wise choice by registering with BIS to avoid legal risks in the Indian market. Connect with professionals at Legal Raasta who have extensive experience in providing BIS cosmetic certificates.

FAQ | Need of BIS Certification for Cosmetics

1. What is BIS certification for cosmetics? 

BIS stands as a governing authority that passes the rules and sets guidelines for cosmetic manufacturers. Though the BIS license apply online, it monitors product reliability and standardization. 

2. How can I check if my BIS is certified for cosmetics?

To ensure the BIS certification for cosmetics, connect to the Bureau of Indian Standards’ official online website. Provide the essential details after clicking on the “Online Services” or “Certification” option.

3. Is the GMP certificate for cosmetic products?

Yes, the manufacturers are required to obtain the GMP certificate for cosmetic products. It is compulsory for the cosmetic registration. 

4. How ISO certification is related to cosmetics?

ISO certification for cosmetics is connected to ISO 22716. It is an outline standard that highlights the standards for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in the cosmetic industry. 

5. Which application form is required for cosmetics?

The manufacturers are required to fulfill the COS-5 for the manufacturing license form, while for product registration, it is in need of COS-2.