Cosmetics regulations: differences and similarities between Switzerland and the European Union
European and Swiss cosmetics regulations are recognized for their high level of safety, traceability, and transparency. Although the two systems are legally distinct, they have many technical similarities. Switzerland, despite not belonging to the European Union, has chosen to harmonize much of its legislation with Regulation (EC) 1223/2009, while maintaining certain national specificities. This article illustrates the commonalities, key differences, and implications for brands wishing to market their products in both Europe and Switzerland.
A broadly harmonized regulatory framework
European Union
European legislation is based on Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009, which governs the safety, composition, labeling, and marketing of cosmetic products.
Switzerland
The Swiss regulatory framework is based on the FDA Ordinance on Cosmetics (OCos) and the requirements of the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office. The OCos incorporates most of the principles of the European regulation, including the requirement for a DIP, safety assessment, good manufacturing practices, rules on ingredients, and labeling standards.
DIP/PIF: similar content, different legal framework
In the European Union, the DIP It is mandatory and includes the product description, test reports, safety assessment, verification of claims, labeling compliance, and demonstration of good manufacturing practices.
In Switzerland, the contents of the dossier are almost identical, but the evaluator must have training recognized by the Swiss authorities. The Swiss authorities also attach great importance to the traceability and consistency of the dossier.
Product notification: a key difference
European Union
Each product must be notified on the CPNP portal before being placed on the market.
Switzerland
There is no notification portal. No prior registration is required before marketing.
This difference implies different strategies for those targeting both markets.
Labeling: similar rules, stricter language requirements in Switzerland
In the EU, labeling must be written in a language that is understandable in the country of sale.
In Switzerland, however, it must be available in French and German; Italian may be required depending on the region. For products sold exclusively in Switzerland, the responsible person must be based in Switzerland.
The mandatory information, the INCI list, the warnings, and the quantity and duration indications are essentially identical.
Ingredients: strong harmonization, possible minor differences
Switzerland includes most European annexes relating to prohibited substances, restricted substances, preservatives, UV filters, and colorants in its OCos lists. However, it reserves the right to modify certain lists independently, sometimes creating differences with respect to the EU.
Cosmetic declarations: strict standards in both systems
The EU and Switzerland require cosmetic claims to be truthful, verifiable, transparent, and not misleading. Swiss authorities are particularly strict, especially when it comes to natural products and dermatological claims.
Required tests: same scientific standards
Both systems are based on international standards, including OECD guidelines and validated alternative methods. The requirements relating to safety, stability, skin tolerance, and efficacy are equivalent.
Conclusion
Swiss and European cosmetics regulations are largely harmonized. However, there are some distinctive elements: no notification requirement in Switzerland, specific language requirements, recognition of the safety assessor, possible variations in ingredient lists, and certain labeling requirements. Companies wishing to sell in Switzerland and the EU need to be aware of these differences to ensure safe and effective marketing.
Services offered by Laboratoires Lelégard
Lelégard Laboratories supports brands destined for the Swiss and European markets. We offer cosmetic formulation, contract manufacturing, and drafting of DIP/PIF In accordance with EU and Swiss regulations, safety assessments by toxicologists recognized in Switzerland, verification of multilingual labeling, performance of required tests, and comprehensive regulatory support.
Our expertise covers compliance for the French, European, and Swiss markets.
