Thailand Cosmetics Notification

Definition of Cosmetics in Thailand

According to Article 4 of the Cosmetics Act B.E. 2558 (2015) and its amendment (No. 2), B.E. 2565 (2022), a cosmetic is defined as any substance or preparation intended to be applied to external parts of the human body—such as the skin, hair, nails, lips, external genital organs, teeth, or oral mucosa—through methods such as rubbing, spraying, applying, or others. Its primary purpose is to cleanse, perfume, change appearance, control odor, protect, or maintain the body’s condition. Decorative accessories and clothing are not considered cosmetics.

Additionally, the following products are also classified as cosmetics under Thai ministerial regulations:

• Cooling towels/wipes

• Sanitary napkins and tampons

• Oral deodorant sprays

• Alcohol-based hand sanitizers

• Wet wipes

Regulatory Background

Cosmetics in Thailand are regulated by the Thai Food and Drug Administration (Thai FDA), which operates under the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH). The Minister of Public Health is responsible for establishing and enforcing cosmetic regulations, standards, and compliance measures.

In alignment with the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD), Thailand implemented the Cosmetics Act B.E. 2558 (2015) on September 9, 2015. This legislation introduced a structured product filing system with a three-year validity period, supporting industry growth while strengthening post-market surveillance as a key regulatory focus.

Market Entry Process

1. Appoint a Local Responsible Company

2. Prepare Thai-Language Labeling

3. Obtain a Filing Certificate

4. Submit Product Filing

5. Apply for an Import License

Required Documentation

• Company documents of the Thai importer

• Warehouse details (address, photos, lease agreement)

• Warehouse inspection certificate (confirming suitable storage conditions)

• GMP certificate of the manufacturing facility

• Product packaging designs (inner and outer) and formula table (in English)

• Power of Attorney

• Trademark registration certificate (if applicable)

Filing Timeline

• Import License Application: approximately 30 working days

• Product Filing:

• Low-risk products: 7–14 working days

• High-risk products: 25–30 working days

• Filing Validity: 3 years

Product Information File (PIF)

The PIF must include the following four sections:

1. Administrative documents

2. Quality and safety information of cosmetic ingredients

3. Product quality and safety data

4. Safety and efficacy evidence (e.g., assessment reports, test results)
   Additional supporting documents may be required.