SFDA updated COC Testing List introduces new controls on powder-based, aerosol, and selected cosmetics
The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has updated its Cosmetics Consignment Certificate of Conformity (COC) Testing List, introducing new testing requirements for several cosmetic product categories and revising existing requirements for others. The changes, published under Version 5.0, place greater emphasis on powder-based and aerosol cosmetics while expanding testing obligations across additional product categories.
Manufacturers and exporters supplying cosmetic products to Saudi Arabia may need to review their compliance procedures following the release of an updated Cosmetics Consignment COC Testing List by SFDA.
Issued on 25 August 2026, Version 5.0 replaces the previous testing list published in July 2023 and reflects a broader expansion of testing requirements across a range of widely traded cosmetic products. Among the most notable changes are new requirements related to asbestos detection, benzene testing, microbiological testing, and ingredient-specific assessments for selected product categories.
New Testing Requirements for Selected Cosmetic Categories
Several cosmetic product categories are affected by new testing requirements introduced under Version 5.0. The most significant additions include:
New Asbestos Detection Requirements
The following powder-based products are now subject to asbestos detection requirements:
Dry shampoos and other powder-based hair products
Powder-based deodorants and antiperspirants
Skin powder products, including face powders, compact powders, loose powders, blushes, bronzers, highlighters, powder foundations, and foot powders
Powder eyeshadow products
New Benzene Testing Requirements
Benzene testing has been introduced for aerosol products within the following categories:
Hair care products
Deodorants and antiperspirants
Skin products
Expanded Microbiological Testing
Microbiological testing requirements have been expanded to include:
Hair dyes
Hair care products
Lip care products
These categories were not previously subject to microbiological testing requirements under Version 4.0.
Additional Hand Soap Requirements
Hand soaps must now also be tested for:
Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)
Methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT)
Revisions to Existing Requirements
Alongside the introduction of new testing obligations, SFDA has revised several existing requirements.
Within the hair care products category, 1,4-Dioxane testing will now apply only to shampoos. Under the previous version of the testing list, the requirement also covered shower gels and facial cleansers.
Changes have also been made to talc powder testing requirements. While the previous version required the detection of asbestos and/or crystalline silica, Version 5.0 focuses on asbestos detection only.
How Cotecna Can Help
As an approved Conformity Assessment Body, Cotecna supports manufacturers and exporters in understanding applicable Saudi market access requirements and obtaining the necessary Certificates of Conformity for regulated products.
For assistance in assessing the impact of the latest SFDA cosmetics testing updates on your products, contact Cotecna's experts.
About Cotecna
For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.