Responsible Person (RP)

An RP is responsible for ensuring that the cosmetic product they place on the market complies with the Regulation. An RP can be an individual or a legally registered company and they must be located in the European Economic Area (EEA).There must be an RP for every cosmetic product placed on the market in the EEA.

A cosmetic product is defined in the Regulation as “any substance or mixture intended to be placed in contact with the external parts of the human body (epidermis, hair systems, nails, lips and external genital organs) or with the teeth and the mucous membranes or the oral cavity with a view exclusively or mainly to cleaning them, perfuming them, changing their appearance, protecting them, keeping them in good condition or correcting body odours”.

Before placing a cosmetic product on the market in the EEA, the RP must ensure that the cosmetic product is safe for use and meets the requirements of the Regulation. The name and address of the RP must be on the label of the cosmetic product and in the product information file (PIF). The PIF must be available at the address on the label.

A cosmetic product does not require approval or a licence before being placed on the market. However, the RP must ensure the cosmetic product meets the requirements of the Regulation.

If you perform any of the following activities, you may be considered the Responsible Person for the cosmetic products you place on the market: