[2025 Latest Compilation of Cosmetic Labeling] How to Understand Cosmetic Batch Numbers, Expiry Dates, and Import Regulations for Skincare Products

picture: Official website

When consumers choose cosmetics or skincare products, besides the packaging and brand image, the most important factor is the labeling. These small print details often contain crucial product information, such as ingredients, expiration date, batch number, and country of origin, and may even indicate whether the product complies with regulations. This articleAdomaThis will take you through a comprehensive understanding:Legal basis for cosmetic labeling, how to read cosmetic batch numbers and expiration dates, and details to pay attention to in the import and packaging design of skincare products.We've compiled the 10 key labeling items from the official announcement, giving you a complete guide from labeling to packaging.

What are cosmetic labels? Why are they important?

according to"Cosmetics Hygiene and Safety Management LawAccording to the "Cosmetic Law," all products used externally on the human body (skin, hair, teeth, mouth, sense of smell, odor, cleansing, etc.) fall under the category of "cosmetics." Whether it's daily-use lotions, perfumes, shampoos, or even sunscreen and lip balms, all must comply with relevant regulations. The importance of cosmetic labeling lies in its symbolism of product safety and legality. Complete labeling allows consumers to clearly understand the product's origin, usage methods, and storage methods, and to trace responsibility in case of problems. For businesses, labeling is not only about information delivery but also a demonstration of brand professionalism and trustworthiness.

How to read cosmetic batch numbers? Learn to distinguish genuine products from counterfeits and check production information.

A cosmetic batch number is like an identification number for each batch of products. It records the product's production date, factory code, and batch information, facilitating quality control and product traceability for businesses.

Common cosmetic batch number formats include:

• Letters + numbers: such as A2501 (A represents the factory code, 25 represents 2025, and 01 represents the first batch).
• Year, month, and day combination: e.g., 250501 (manufactured on May 1, 2025)
• Brand-defined batch codes: Some international brands design their own batch codes based on internal specifications.

Consumers can check the manufacturing date and expiration date of a product using the batch number; if the product recall notice mentions "batch number XXXX," it means that the batch of products is problematic, allowing for quick identification of the affected products. If a product does not have a batch number or the batch number is illegible, it may violate [the relevant regulations/standards].Cosmetic Labeling RegulationsThe article advises against purchasing these items to avoid buying goods of dubious origin or expired products.

How are expiration dates and shelf-life dates labeled on cosmetics? Don't get them mixed up again!

Many people often confuse the meanings of "MFG", "EXP" or "Best Before" on packaging.
In fact, these three have clear differences:

According to regulations, cosmetics must be labeled with at least one of the following: "manufacturing date and expiration date" or "manufacturing date and shelf life". Unclear or missing labeling is considered a violation of regulations.

Shelf life varies depending on the product type:

• Lotions and creams with high water content: typically have a shelf life of 2-3 years.
• Essential oils or powder products: can be stored for 3-5 years.
• It is recommended to use within 6 to 12 months after opening.

If the product has an odor, discoloration, or separation, it means it has oxidized or expired. Even if it has not reached the indicated expiration date, it should not be used.

10 Key Points of Cosmetic Labeling and Skincare Product Packaging Standards

When discussing cosmetic labeling and skincare product packaging, people most often think of product names and ingredients. However, according to the relevant regulations...Cosmetics Hygiene and Safety Management LawAccording to the regulations, a legal and qualified cosmetic or skincare product needs to have many items fully labeled. Below, we have compiled a list of the items that must be clearly labeled as mentioned in the regulations:

Master the 10 essential cosmetic and skincare product labels

1. Product Name
2. use
3. Usage and storage methods
4. Net weight, capacity or quantity
5. Full ingredient names; for cosmetics for specific purposes, the content of the specific-purpose ingredients should be separately indicated.
6. Precautions for use
7. Enter the name, address, and telephone number of the manufacturer or importer; enter the country of origin of the product.
8. Manufacturing date and expiration date, or manufacturing date and shelf life, or expiration date and shelf life.
9. batch number
10. Other matters that should be marked as announced by the central competent authority

(The above is from "Cosmetics Hygiene and Safety Management Law(For details regarding the contents of this document, please refer to the National Legal Database.)

Three details to remember when labeling cosmetics

In addition to including the above items, the signage must also comply with the rules set by government departments in terms of presentation, for example:

1. Font size: If the product weight/capacity is 800 grams/800 milliliters, the height and width of the text on the label shall not be less than 2.0 millimeters (this is a partial excerpt).
2. Ingredient writing method: The ingredients should be written using the standard Chinese and English notation (this is a partial excerpt).
3. Ingredient arrangement order: The ingredients should be arranged in descending order (this is a partial excerpt).

(The above is a partial excerpt; please refer to the complete regulations.)Regulations on the labeling of cosmetic outer packaging, containers, labels or leaflets）Furthermore, packaging materials also affect shelf life. For example, glass bottles reduce oxidation, and aluminum tubes block sunlight. Brands should consider both aesthetics and regulations in their designs to ensure consumers can clearly read the labels.

picture: Official website

Important Notes on Import and Repackaging of Skincare Products

Some brands may need to repackage imported cosmetics in Taiwan. We need to pay special attention to this when labeling them. According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare regulations, starting July 1, 2021, all cosmetic products repackaged in Taiwan must be specifically labeled with the words "repackaged in Taiwan." For detailed regulations, please refer to:"For imported cosmetics that are repackaged domestically, the outer packaging or container should include a statement indicating that they were repackaged in Taiwan."

If the labeling does not comply with regulations, it may face [problems].Fines or removal from shelvesIf a brand outsources manufacturing or packaging to a contract manufacturer (OEM/ODM), it should verify that the manufacturer has valid registration and inspection reports to ensure a smooth product launch process.

Cosmetic Label Examples and Comparison Table

To help you quickly understand what items should be included on a cosmetic label, we have prepared a simple reference table below:

This tabular format not only complies with regulations but also makes it easy for consumers to understand at a glance.

Cosmetic Labeling Consultation Resources Compilation

Because cosmetic labeling involves product listing and regulatory issues, the Ministry of Health and Welfare of Taiwan provides consultation channels for companies or brands that need further information on related details.

• Dedicated hotline: Cosmetics consultation hotline / 02-2521-7350
• Online platforms:Cosmetics Regulatory Consulting Service Platform

For complete information and service details, please visit [website address].Ministry of Health and Welfare Food and Drug Administration - Cosmetics Business Consultation Window"Check.