China SFDA Incorporates New and Revised Cosmetic Safety Testing Methods into the Cosmetics Safety Technical Specifications (2015 Edition)

On January 16, 2026, China’s State Food and Drug Administration announced the incorporation of four newly formulated and revised testing methods into the Cosmetics Safety Technical Specifications (2015 Edition), following approval by the Director Meeting of the Cosmetics Standardization Technical Committee. Among these, two new test methods were introduced: the Skin Allergy Local Lymph Node Test Method: BrdU-FCM, which enhances the evaluation of skin sensitization potential, and the Metabolic Kinetics Test Method, supporting more robust assessment of substance behavior in biological systems.
In addition, two existing human-based safety evaluation methods were revised, namely the Human Skin Patch Test Method and the Human Safety Trial Test Method. These revised methods replace the corresponding provisions previously included in the 2015 edition of the specifications, reflecting updated scientific practices and regulatory expectations.
All four methods are scheduled to enter into force on 1 July 2026. Prior to this effective date, cosmetic registrants and filers are encouraged to voluntarily apply the new and revised methods in registration and filing-related testing. This update strengthens China’s cosmetic safety assessment framework, particularly in skin allergy evaluation and human safety testing, while promoting alignment with evolving toxicological and risk assessment standards.