India's drug regulator has launched a targeted enforcement action on hair dyes and unverified cosmetic injections, tightening labeling and safety requirements. For overseas suppliers and distributors of hair color products and injectables, this signals stricter compliance standards in one of the world's largest beauty markets, affecting import documentation and packaging design.
Regulatory action details
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has initiated a major crackdown on the cosmetics and beauty market, with an initial focus on hair dyes and coloring agents. Authorities have also issued a stern warning against unverified cosmetic injections that falsely claim to promote weight loss or body contouring. The move aims to ensure compliance with safety standards across the supply chain.
New labeling requirements for hair dyes
Under the new guidelines, manufacturers and distributors must strictly adhere to the Cosmetics Rules and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) criteria before marketing hair dyes. Companies are now legally required to print a clear, legible list of all ingredients—including specific coloring agents—directly on the product packaging. Additionally, warnings about potential restrictions on use, risk of allergic reactions, and instructions for mandatory safety patch tests must be prominently displayed.
Regulatory status of injectable products
The CDSCO has clarified that any injectable substances claiming to reduce body weight or reverse aging do not qualify as cosmetics. Such products will face distinct regulatory scrutiny, separate from the cosmetics framework. This clarification directly impacts importers and distributors of aesthetic injectables, who must ensure their products are classified and registered appropriately.
What buyers should watch
Overseas buyers sourcing hair dyes or cosmetic injectables for the Indian market should verify that product packaging includes a complete ingredient list and safety warnings as per BIS standards. For injectables claiming weight loss or anti-aging effects, confirm that the product is registered under the appropriate drug or medical device category, not as a cosmetic. Non-compliance could lead to seizure or import bans.
Source: Read the original report | Published: June 16, 2026