Selling cosmetics on Amazon Canada can open up a world of opportunity, but it comes with strict compliance expectations. Recently, many sellers have faced Amazon Canada cosmetic delisting due to missing or incomplete regulatory documentation. This issue not only disrupts sales but can damage your brand’s reputation and standing with Amazon.
To prevent these setbacks, you need to align your product listings with Health Canada’s cosmetic regulations and Amazon’s documentation requirements. Keep reading to learn how to stay compliant, keep your listings live, and avoid unnecessary delistings.
Understand Health Canada cosmetic requirements
Before listing any cosmetic product in Canada, it’s critical to determine whether it meets the definition of a cosmetic under the Food and Drugs Act. Health Canada defines cosmetics as products applied to the body to clean, improve, or alter appearance, such as lotions, shampoos, makeup, and deodorants.
Each cosmetic product must be supported by:
- A Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF) submitted to Health Canada within 10 days of first sale.
- A complete ingredient list using INCI names, placed on the label.
- Bilingual labelling that includes the product identity and net quantity.
Failing to meet any of these criteria can make your listing non-compliant, prompting Amazon to delist it.
You can review the official Health Canada cosmetic regulations for more guidance on ingredient safety, product classification, and compliance expectations.
What triggers delisting on Amazon?
Amazon requires proof that your cosmetic product is safe and authorized for sale in Canada. If Amazon’s compliance team requests documentation and you fail to provide it, your product may be suspended or removed. Common reasons for delisting include:
- Missing Cosmetic Notification Number (CNF confirmation)
- Incomplete or unverified ingredient list
- Labels that don’t meet bilingual or INCI requirements
- Products flagged as drugs or NHPs rather than cosmetics
In some cases, sellers are unaware that their product is classified differently. Amazon may use AI or keyword-based detection to flag certain ingredients or claims, so even your marketing language can trigger a compliance review.
What you can do to prevent delisting
To avoid Amazon Canada cosmetic delisting, ensure that your product is registered and your documentation is organized before you list. Here are key steps to protect your listings:
1. Submit your Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF)
You must submit a CNF to Health Canada and receive an acknowledgment email. Save this confirmation, as Amazon may ask for it at any time. For full details, refer to Health Canada’s official Guide to Notification of Cosmetics.
2. Ensure your label meets Health Canada requirements
Make sure your label includes the INCI ingredient list, bilingual product name, and proper formatting. You can review Health Canada’s official Labelling of Cosmetics Guide to ensure your product meets all requirements. Avoid health claims that could reclassify your product as a drug or NHP.
3. Respond quickly to Amazon’s compliance requests
If Amazon contacts you requesting documentation, act fast. Delays in responding can result in your listing being pulled. Prepare a compliance folder with your CNF, ingredient list, and label in advance.
4. Get support from a regulatory expert
If you’re unsure whether your product meets cosmetic classification or label rules, working with a compliance partner can help. At Quality Smart Solutions, we guide businesses through Health Canada cosmetic notification, bilingual labelling, and Amazon compliance submissions.
Stay compliant and keep your products listed
You work hard to build your brand. Don’t let a preventable mistake interrupt your sales. By proactively meeting Health Canada’s cosmetic requirements and being ready to respond to Amazon’s requests, you can protect your listings and grow with confidence.
Need help with your CNF submission or cosmetic classification? Visit our Amazon Canada Compliance page or explore our Cosmetics services page for more information. You can also contact us or fill out the form below to book a free consultation with one of our regulatory experts.
