On 18 May 2026, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) issued a public notice reaffirming that cosmetics are for external use only and cannot be injected.
Key highlights:
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The notice reminds consumers, healthcare professionals, and industry stakeholders that cosmetics are strictly regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Cosmetics Rules, 2020, and must be used only for their intended purposes.
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CDSCO reiterates that cosmetics are defined as articles applied to the human body, by rubbing, pouring, sprinkling, or spraying, for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering appearance.
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This definition clearly restricts cosmetics to non-therapeutic and non-invasive use.
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The authority expressly clarifies that products supplied in the form of injectable preparations do not fall under the definition of cosmetics. Accordingly, no cosmetic should be injected by consumers, professionals, or aesthetic clinics, as cosmetics are intended solely for topical application.
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The notice also refers to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) list of ingredients that are restricted or classified as generally not recognised as safe (GNRAS).
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Manufacturers and importers are also instructed to strictly comply with these standards, as the use of prohibited ingredients constitutes a legal violation.
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CDSCO cautions against misleading claims and improper labelling, prohibiting false or deceptive claims and any tampering with labels or manufacturer inscriptions.
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The notice emphasises that cosmetics are not medicines and cannot be used for the treatment, cure, mitigation, or prevention of any disease or medical condition.
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CDSCO warns that violations, including prohibited ingredients, misleading claims or injectable application, will attract action under the law.
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Consumers and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any such violations to the appropriate regulatory authorities.
Also Read: Del HC | Faces cosmetics restrained from selling products under the trademark “Velvet Matte”
[CDSCO Notification, dt 18-5-2026]
