In October, the China National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC) released the first batch of new cosmetic ingredients (NCIs) selected under its innovation guidance program. This initiative marks a key step in China’s strategy to encourage innovation and self-reliance in the cosmetics sector by promoting the research, development, and application of novel ingredients.

The list includes 16 NCIs that have undergone an evaluation process and selected based on their:

– Potential for early market entry;

– Alignment with domestic characteristics and local R&D strengths;

– Capacity to replace imported ingredients;

– Contribution to sustainability and green innovation.

NIFDC emphasized that inclusion in the list does not constitute pre-approval of ingredient quality or safety. Enterprises must still complete the required notification or registration procedures in accordance with existing regulatory requirements.

To support developers, the NIFDC will offer comprehensive technical guidance throughout the R&D, notification, and registration processes. The goal is to accelerate the pathway for safe, effective, and innovative ingredients reach the Chinese cosmetics market.