Injectable cosmetic products are not permitted by law, says the medicines regulator CDSCO
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Cosmetic products supplied in injectable form do not fall under the definition of cosmetics under the law and are not permitted to be used by consumers, professionals or aesthetic clinics, the central medicines regulator has made clear.
The recommendation by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) comes amid the growing popularity of injectable aesthetic procedures, which are promoted as “cosmetic” treatments in beauty clinics and wellness centers across the country.
The clarification is aimed at preventing the misuse of cosmetic products for medical purposes and ensuring consumer safety, especially as non-surgical aesthetic procedures gain popularity in urban centers and through promotion on social media, the source said.
The move also seeks to curb deceptive advertising and unauthorized cosmetic practices by clinics and individuals.
In a May 18 decree, the regulator said the cosmetics are only intended to be “rubbed, poured, sprayed or sprayed” on the body to clean, beautify, enhance attractiveness or change appearance.
“Products supplied in the form of injectables do not fall under the definition of cosmetics. No cosmetics are permitted to be used as injectables for consumers/professionals/aesthetic clinics,” the notice said.
The regulator also warned against misleading claims and use of banned ingredients in cosmetic products, saying such violations attract action under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Cosmetics Rules 2020.
CDSCO further stated that cosmetics are permitted only for their intended use and cannot be used for medicinal purposes by professionals or individuals.
The notification added that the list of generally not recognized as safe (GNRAS) and restricted ingredients is published by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
The public was encouraged to report violations or misleading practices to the regulator via email or state licensing authorities, the notice added.
Published – 21 May 2026 12:19 PM IST