What is a functional cosmetic in Korea?

In South Korea, MFDS classifies cosmetics making efficacy claims into 11 'functional cosmetic' categories requiring pre-market approval: (1) whitening/melanin prevention, (2) whitening/melanin lightening, (3) wrinkle improvement, (4) tanning protection, (5) UV protection, (6) hair color change, (7) body hair removal, (8) hair loss alleviation, (9) acne alleviation, (10) skin barrier restoration, and (11) stretch mark reduction. General cosmetics only require simple KPTA notification.

How long does MFDS functional cosmetics approval take?

MFDS approval takes 7 days if your product uses pre-approved KFCC-listed functional ingredients at standard concentrations. If your product uses novel or non-listed ingredients, the full examination process takes 4-6 months and requires efficacy testing, safety battery (6 tests), and human application data. The MFDS fee is ₩189,000 for electronic submission.

How do I sell cosmetics in South Korea?

To sell cosmetics in Korea you need: (1) a Korean Marketing Authorization Holder (MAH) or Responsible Seller, (2) product notification via KPTA for general cosmetics or MFDS approval for functional cosmetics, (3) Korean-language labeling compliant with the Cosmetics Act, (4) ingredient compliance with the KFCC restricted/prohibited lists. Timeline: 2-4 weeks for general cosmetics, 3-6 months for functional cosmetics. Estimated total cost: $2,000-$5,000 general, $10,000-$30,000 functional.

Does my sunscreen need MFDS approval in Korea?

Yes. All sunscreens with SPF or PA rating claims are classified as functional cosmetics in South Korea and require MFDS pre-market approval regardless of SPF level. You need GLP-certified UVB SPF rating, UVA PA rating, and if claimed, water resistance testing. Korea permits 30+ UV filters. Note: Oxybenzone (BP-3) was reduced to 2.4% body / 5% face effective September 2025.

What products are functional cosmetics in Korea?

Products making any of these claims are functional cosmetics in Korea: skin whitening or brightening, wrinkle reduction or anti-aging, sun protection (any SPF/PA claim), permanent or semi-permanent hair dye, hair loss prevention, acne treatment (cleansing products only), skin barrier restoration for atopic skin, stretch mark reduction, body hair removal, tanning protection, and body odor prevention. If your product makes none of these claims, it is a general cosmetic.

World's First Free MFDS Checker

Free Korea Functional Cosmetics Checker

Instantly check if your product requires MFDS functional cosmetics approval for the South Korean market. All 11 categories. No sign-up required.

General Cosmetics

Simple notification process

✓ No efficacy testing required
✓ Faster market entry
✓ Lower registration cost
✓ Timeline: 2-4 weeks

Functional Cosmetics

MFDS review required

△ Efficacy testing required
△ KFCC approved ingredients
△ Human patch testing
△ Timeline: 3-6 months

Check Ingredient Restrictions (Korea)

Checking against 1,291 Korean restricted ingredients

Search any ingredient to check if it's prohibited, restricted, or permitted under Korean MFDS regulations. Data sourced from our D1 database.

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Product Type

Key Claims

11 Functional Cosmetic Categories

Korea Contaminant Limits

Contaminant	General Limit	Special Limits	Note

Korea Regulatory Changes (2025-2027)

Popular KFCC-Approved Functional Ingredients

183 approved functional ingredients in KFCC database

Whitening

Niacinamide (2-5%)
Arbutin (2-5%)
Ascorbic Acid (2%)
Tranexamic Acid

Anti-Wrinkle

Retinol (0.075%)
Adenosine (0.04%)
Peptides
EGF

UV Protection

Zinc Oxide
Titanium Dioxide
Avobenzone
Tinosorb S

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