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  1. SCALE — Build to ₹1L/mo
  3. Drug & Cosmetics Rules

04 — Legal

Drug & Cosmetics Rules

If you sell skincare, cosmetics, or health products, this regulates what you can and cannot claim. Compliance gaps can shut down your brand.
SkincareCosmeticsHealth Products

Varies

License Cost

Depends on category

15-30 Days

Processing Time

For cosmetics registration

₹1-5L

Penalty for Violation

Misleading claims

100%

Compliance

Non-negotiable

What Category Are You In?

CategoryRegulationLicense RequiredAction
Cosmetics (Skincare, Haircare)Drugs & Cosmetics ActState Cosmetic RegistrationApply Now
Ayurvedic ProductsASU Drugs RulesAYUSH Manufacturing LicenseApply Now
Dietary SupplementsFSSAIFSSAI LicenseSee FSSAI page
OTC Health ProductsDrugs & Cosmetics ActDrug License (varies)Consult Lawyer
General Merchandise (Clothing etc.)Not regulated under this actNo cosmetic license neededNot Applicable

Cosmetic Claims Compliance

Claim TypeExampleAllowed?Risk
Functional claim"Moisturizes skin"Yes (if true)Must be substantiated
Cosmetic claim"Reduces appearance of wrinkles"Yes (with evidence)Misleading if unsubstantiated
Drug claim"Cures acne"No — drugs onlyIllegal for cosmetics — high risk
Natural claim"100% natural ingredients"If verifiableMust list all ingredients
Clinical claim"Clinically proven"Only with trialsMust have clinical evidence
Rule #1: Never make drug claims for cosmetic products. "Cures," "treats," "heals" are illegal for cosmetics. Use "helps," "improves," "reduces appearance of" instead.
Drug & Cosmetics — If Applicable