What Are the Licensing Requirements for Makeup Suppliers Selling Cosmetics in the US in 2025?

The US cosmetics market is a busy, dynamic marketplace to sell cosmetics. But it is fraught with regulations to follow. As a local or international makeup supplier, you need to understand federal, state, and online platform laws to be able to sell legally.

Challenges Faced by International and Domestic Suppliers

Vendors within the country are already attuned to FDA regulations. Foreign companies, though, might struggle to work under U.S. labeling rules, illegal lists of ingredients, or exportation procedures. And any and all claims any product is making about itself, like referring to one product as “natural,” must adhere to FTC rules to be truthful.

Growing Demand and Regulatory Expectations in 2025

In 2025, consumers love cruelty-free beauty products and clean beauty than ever before. With this, clear ingredient labeling, allergy alerts, and sufficient evidence for product claims are also demanded by regulators.

Overview of Regulatory Bodies Governing Cosmetics in the US

Before selling, you need to know who regulates cosmetics in the U.S.

The Role of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The FDA guarantees cosmetic safety by the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). Cosmetics are not approved by the FDA before they make it to the store shelves, as opposed to drugs. Nevertheless, manufacturers have to make sure their products are safe to use when applied as directed.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Labeling Compliance

The FTC makes sure ads tell the truth. If you claim your product is “anti-aging” or “organic,” you need proof. False claims can get you in trouble with the FTC.

State-Level Regulatory Agencies and Variations

Aside from federal laws, there are states that have their own acts. For example, California’s Proposition 65 mandates warning customers if your product has chemicals proven cancer or birth defect causes.

Key Licensing and Registration Requirements for Cosmetic Suppliers

To sell cosmetics in the U.S., suppliers must take specific steps depending on what they do.

Facility Registration Under MoCRA (Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act)

MoCRA says all cosmetic factories must sign up with the FDA. This includes factories in the U.S. and abroad if their products are sold here. You have to renew this every two years. If your factory changes owners or operations, you must update the FDA.

Product Listing Obligations for Manufacturers and Distributors

MoCRA also requires listing every cosmetic product with the FDA. You need to include its ingredients, what it’s used for, and a contact for reporting problems. If you don’t follow these rules, your products could be recalled or blocked from import.

Labeling, Packaging, and Ingredient Disclosure Rules

Labels on cosmetics must be clear and follow U.S. laws.

Mandatory Label Elements Required by Law

Your label needs to show what the product is, how much is in the package, a list of ingredients from most to least, the maker’s name and address, and any warnings.

INCI Naming Convention for Ingredients

Ingredients must be listed using International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient (INCI) names. This makes it simple for customers to understand what’s in the product, no matter where it’s made.

Compliance with Safety Standards and Testing Protocols

Making safe products is a big deal. It keeps you legal and builds trust with customers.

GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) Certification Requirements

Federal law doesn’t demand GMP certification, but stores and buyers often want it. It proves you keep your factory clean, track your work, maintain equipment, and check product quality.

Product Safety Substantiation: Stability, Microbial, and Compatibility Testing

You need to test your products to prove they’re safe. Stability tests show how long they last. Microbial tests check if preservatives work. Compatibility tests make sure the product and packaging don’t cause problems. These tests are required under MoCRA’s safety rules.

Animal Testing Regulations and Cruelty-Free Claims

The U.S. doesn’t fully ban animal testing, but states like California stop sales of animal-tested cosmetics unless another country requires it. If you say your product is “cruelty-free,” you need real proof to back it up.

Importation Requirements for Foreign Makeup Suppliers

Foreign suppliers face extra steps to bring cosmetics into the U.S.

Customs Clearance Procedures for Cosmetic Products

Cosmetics coming into the U.S. go through Customs & Border Protection (CBP). They check the product’s value, country of origin labels, tariff codes (HTS codes), and invoice details. Having the right paperwork is super important.

FDA Inspection of Imported Goods

The FDA might hold shipments if something looks off. They check labels, banned ingredients, or contamination risks. You need to show documents to get your products through.

Documentation Required for Entry into the US Market

Foreign suppliers need papers like invoices with product info, certificates of analysis, batch records, factory registration numbers, product listings, shipping lists, MSDS sheets, and GMP proof, depending on the port.

Partnering with Third-Party Platforms and Retailers in the US

Selling on big online platforms means following their specific rules too.

Licensing Requirements When Selling on Amazon, Walmart, or Etsy

Places like Amazon might ask for proof of your business, like an EIN number, insurance, GMP certificates, or lab tests showing your product is safe. This is especially true for private label cosmetics.

Introducing Topfeel: A Trusted Wholesale Makeup Supplier for Global Brands

If you’re looking for a reliable wholesale makeup supplier, Topfeel Beauty is a top pick. We provide private label and OEM/ODM services, making sure our products meet safety rules worldwide, including in the U.S.

FAQs

Q1: Do I need an FDA license to sell cosmetics in the US?
A: You don’t need an FDA “license” to sell cosmetics. But under MoCRA, you must register your factory if you make products sold in the U.S. You also have to list each product with its ingredients, using INCI names when needed.

Q2: Can I sell imported makeup without reformulation?
A: Yes, if your product follows U.S. ingredient rules (no banned items) and has proper INCI labels. You also need to pass customs checks and show documents like Certificates of Analysis and GMP proof when asked.

Q3: Is it legal to sell homemade cosmetics online?
A: Yes, but you must follow FDA labeling rules and get state or local business permits, even if you sell from home on platforms like Etsy or Shopify.