Using Cosmetic Injections? India’s Drug Regulator Has Issued A Serious Warning

India’s drug regulator, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation, has warned that cosmetic products are not permitted to be administered through injections, stating that such usage violates provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Cosmetics Rules, 2020.

In a public notice issued on Tuesday, the regulator clarified that products supplied in injectable form do not fall under the legal definition of cosmetics and cannot be used by consumers, professionals, or aesthetic clinics.

“No cosmetic is permitted to be used for injection by consumers, professionals or aesthetic clinics. Cosmetics are only intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled or sprayed on the human body,” the notice stated.

The CDSCO said cosmetics are legally classified as products intended for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness or altering appearance.

“Cosmetic means any article intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled or sprayed on, or introduced into, or otherwise applied to, the human body or any part thereof for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance, and includes any article intended for use as a component of a cosmetic,” the notice said.

The regulator further clarified that cosmetics are not meant for treatment purposes by professionals or individuals.

Warning Against Misleading Claims

The CDSCO cautioned manufacturers and sellers against making misleading claims in cosmetic products. It also warned against the use of prohibited ingredients.

The regulator said violations would invite action under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and related rules.

“As per the provisions of labelling, no cosmetic may purport or claim to convey any idea which is false or misleading to the intending user,” the notice stated.

The regulator further said no person can alter markings placed by manufacturers on cosmetic products. It also prohibited anyone from obliterating or defacing inscriptions on containers, labels or wrappers.

The CDSCO said the Bureau of Indian Standards publishes a list of restricted ingredients. It also includes substances classified as Generally Not Recognised as Safe (GNRAS).

The regulator also urged the public to report violations. It asked people to inform the authorities about any misuse or non-compliance.

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