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New Zealand Cosmetic Regulations 2026: Compliance Guide for Brands & Importers
New Zealand has introduced major updates to cosmetic regulations, with new requirements becoming enforceable from 1 January 2026. These changes affect cosmetic manufacturers, importers, brand owners, and distributors placing products on the New Zealand market.
The updated rules strengthen ingredient controls, expand the regulatory scope of cosmetics, and introduce a phase-out of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Companies must act early to ensure New Zealand cosmetic compliance and avoid supply disruptions.
This guide explains the latest New Zealand cosmetic regulations, key compliance obligations, and what businesses should do now.
Overview of New Zealand Cosmetic Regulations
Cosmetics in New Zealand are regulated under the Cosmetic Products Group Standard, enforced by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) under the Hazardous Substances framework.
From 2026 onward:
- Compliance is no longer limited to “hazardous” cosmetic products
- Any cosmetic containing a hazardous ingredient must comply
- Ingredient controls, labelling, and documentation requirements have been updated
These updates bring New Zealand cosmetic regulations closer to EU cosmetics regulation, while maintaining country-specific obligations.
Key New Zealand Cosmetic Regulatory Updates (2026)
Expanded Scope of Cosmetic Compliance
Previously, only cosmetics classified as hazardous were subject to the Group Standard. Under the updated rules:
- All cosmetics containing hazardous ingredients must comply
- Finished product classification alone is no longer sufficient
- Ingredient-level compliance is now mandatory
Why this matters:
Many everyday cosmetics that were previously outside the scope are now regulated, increasing compliance obligations for brands and importers.
Updated Cosmetic Ingredient Restrictions (Schedules 4–8)
The Cosmetic Products Group Standard includes ingredient schedules that have been revised and updated:
- Schedule 4: Prohibited cosmetic ingredients
- Schedule 5: Restricted cosmetic ingredients
- Schedule 6: Permitted colorants
- Schedule 7: Permitted preservatives
- Schedule 8: Permitted UV filters
These updates align closely with EU cosmetic ingredient rules, but EU compliance does not automatically guarantee New Zealand compliance.
Action required:
A full New Zealand cosmetic ingredient compliance check is essential for every product.
PFAS Ban in Cosmetics in New Zealand
One of the most significant changes is the ban on PFAS in cosmetics.
PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are now listed as prohibited substances due to their environmental persistence and potential health risks.
PFAS Compliance Timeline
- End of 2026: Import and manufacture of PFAS-containing cosmetics prohibited
- End of 2027: Sale and supply of PFAS-containing cosmetics prohibited
- 2027–2028: Mandatory disposal of remaining non-compliant products
High-risk product categories include:
- Long-wear and waterproof makeup
- Water-resistant sunscreens
- Certain skin-care and hair-care formulations
Nanomaterials in Cosmetics – New Requirements
Cosmetics containing nanomaterials are subject to enhanced regulatory oversight.
Companies must:
- Maintain detailed records on nanomaterials used
- Identify nanomaterials in product documentation
- Make records available to the New Zealand EPA upon request
There is no routine pre-market approval, but documentation and traceability are mandatory.
Fragrance and IFRA Standards
New Zealand cosmetic regulations now reference updated IFRA Standards, meaning:
- Certain fragrance ingredients may require reformulation
- Maximum concentration limits may change
- Legacy IFRA compliance may no longer be sufficient
This is particularly relevant for perfumes and fragranced cosmetics.
Cosmetic Labelling Requirements in New Zealand
Cosmetic labelling must meet specific New Zealand requirements, including:
- Full INCI ingredient list
- Identification of nanomaterials using “(nano)”
- Name and address of the NZ importer or manufacturer
- Appropriate hazard and safety statements
Labels designed for the EU or UK often require minor but critical updates for New Zealand compliance.
New Zealand Cosmetic Compliance Deadlines
| Date | Requirement |
|---|---|
| 1 January 2026 | New rules apply to cosmetic import and manufacture |
| 1 January 2027 | Supply of non-compliant cosmetics should cease |
| End 2026–2027 | PFAS phase-out deadlines |
| 2027 onward | Increased enforcement and inspections |
What Cosmetic Companies Should Do Now
To ensure compliance with New Zealand cosmetic regulations, Cosmereg recommends:
1. Conduct a Full Ingredient Compliance Review
- Verify compliance against updated Schedules 4–8
- Identify PFAS and newly restricted ingredients
2. Assess Product Portfolio Risk
- Prioritise high-risk products (sunscreens, long-wear makeup, fragrances)
- Plan reformulation where necessary
3. Update Labels and Documentation
- Ensure INCI lists, nanomaterial declarations, and importer details are correct
- Align technical documentation with EPA requirements
4. Manage Transitional Stock
- Plan sell-through or withdrawal before supply cut-off dates
- Avoid forced disposal of non-compliant products
How Cosmereg Supports New Zealand Cosmetic Compliance
Cosmereg provides end-to-end support for New Zealand cosmetic compliance, including:
- Cosmetic ingredient compliance checks
- PFAS risk assessment and reformulation guidance
- Cosmetic label compliance review
- Multi-market regulatory alignment (EU, UK, USA, Canada & NZ)
- Regulatory advisory and transition planning
Conclusion
The 2026 New Zealand cosmetic regulatory updates represent a major shift toward stricter ingredient control and environmental protection. Brands and importers must act early to maintain uninterrupted market access.
Early compliance planning in 2025 is critical to avoid regulatory risk, product withdrawals, and enforcement action.
