IMB Becomes the Competent Authority for Cosmetics
On 1 October 2010 the Irish Medicines Board was formally made the Competent Authority in Ireland for cosmetic products.
The decision of the Minister to appoint the IMB as Competent Authority for cosmetics was prompted by the need to facilitate a more pro-active and engaged approach to regulation of the cosmetics sector, particularly in view of forthcoming changes in the legislative requirements governing cosmetic products. It was considered that the IMB's experience and international recognition as a regulator was suited to ensuring this objective, and the continued devlopment of Ireland as an effectively regulated and high quality location for cosmetics manufacture.
Our Role
The IMB has responsibility for the regulation of cosmetics in Ireland and ensuring compliance with legislation. Our role of Competent Authority involves a range of activities including:
- Cosmetic product notifications and generation of Certificates of Free Sale.
- Ensuring the operation of an effective and broad reaching market surveillance programme in conjunction with the HSE.
- Investigation of safety concerns arising during use.
- Participation in international activities, including relevant EU working groups.
Contact Us
Queries relating to cosmetic products can be directed to the following e-mail address: cosmetics@imb.ie
Urgent matters can be referred to Orla Barry, Compliance Department.
For Industry
To notify a cosmetic product in Ireland click here.
To apply for a certificate of free sale for cosmetic products click here.
For Consumers
To report an undesirable effect click here.
For information on cosmetic product updates click here.
Information and Guidance
Guide to Cosmetics
Presentations from our recent Information Day for Cosmetics are available here.
The IMB plans to hold another Information Day to coincide with the implementation of the recast Regulation 1223/2009, which is due to come into force in July 2013. Further details will be posted on the website closer to the time.