China: NMPA Issues 6 New Cosmetic Ingredient Testing Methods (w.e.f. 1 July 2025)

The National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has officially issued the updated Announcement No. 45 of 2024, introducing six cosmetic testing methods that will be incorporated into the Technical Specification for the Safety of Cosmetics (2015 Edition). It will be immediately effective on 1 July 2025.

This significant update reaffirms China’s commitment to enhancing cosmetic safety, consumer protection, and regulatory clarity in the ever-evolving beauty and personal care industry.

What’s New?

Three of the six methods are entirely new testing procedures, designed to regulate and identify specific substances in cosmetic products:

• Azelaic Acid and Its Salts

• Phenacetin

• Hydroxydecanoic Acid

These additions aim to strengthen the oversight of raw materials and ensure the safety and compliance of cosmetic ingredients. The inclusion of azelaic acid, for instance, reflects growing attention to active ingredients used in skin treatments, particularly for acne and hyperpigmentation.

What’s Revised?

Two existing methods have been significantly revised:

• Testing Method for Asbestos in Cosmetics

• Testing Methods for Glucuronic Acid and 13 Other Raw Materials

These revisions replace the original procedures previously outlined in the 2015 edition of the safety specifications. The updated methods reflect advancements in detection techniques and align with modern regulatory expectations for toxicological assessment and ingredient traceability.

Implementation Timeline

All six testing methods will be formally implemented on 1 July 2025. From this date onward:

• All cosmetic registration, filing, and sampling inspections must adhere to these updated protocols

• Any outdated testing methods specified in the original 2015 specification will be officially phased out.

  
  

Why This Matters?

With China continuing to be one of the largest and most influential cosmetics markets globally, these updates mark a pivotal step in harmonizing cosmetic standards and improving product quality. For manufacturers, R&D teams, and regulatory professionals, it’s crucial to:

• Update internal compliance protocols

• Review formulations for affected ingredients

• Ensure lab partners and testing entities adopt the latest methods by the implementation date

These efforts not only reinforce product safety but also foster trust with consumers and global stakeholders.

To remain compliant and competitive in China’s evolving cosmetics market, keep abreast of all regulatory announcements from NMPA with ARQon. These proactive adjustments are vital for ensuring product integrity, maintaining consumer safety, and supporting international best practices in cosmetic formulation and evaluation.

Source: National Medical Products Administration (NMPA)