SCPN is the UK (specifically Great Britain) version of the "online cosmetic product notification platform," officially known as Submit Cosmetic Product Notifications. All cosmetic products intended for sale in England, Scotland, and Wales must be notified through this system prior to market placement.
1. Who Needs to Complete SCPN? The "Responsible Person" Concept
Like the EU, the UK system centers on the Responsible Person (RP).
1.1 Who Can Be a UK Responsible Person?
Must have a physical address in the UK (company or individual)
Can be:
UK-based manufacturer
Importer (from EU or third countries into the UK)
Private labeler/distributor (selling under own brand)
Dedicated regulatory service provider (compliance company)
1.2 Who Must Submit SCPN Notifications?
Only UK Responsible Persons can submit notifications on SCPN.
Overseas factories/brand owners (non-UK entities) → Cannot notify directly. They must:
Appoint a UK importer as RP, OR
Contract a UK-based compliance company to act as agent RP.
1.3 Obligations of the Responsible Person
Ensure full compliance with UK cosmetics regulations (formula, safety assessment, labeling, etc.)
Establish & maintain Product Information File (PIF)
Submit and keep product notifications updated on SCPN
Print RP name and UK address on product packaging
2. When Must SCPN Notification Be Completed?
2.1 New Products
Before placing on the GB market, SCPN notification must be completed.
2.2 Existing Products Transferred from EU CPNP
For products already sold in the UK before January 1, 2021 and notified in EU CPNP:
The transition requirement was: notification to SCPN by March 31, 2021.
For new projects now: follow the "notify on SCPN before market placement" rule.
2.3 Consequences of Non-Notification
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has enforcement authority. The SCPN official website states: failure to notify may result in fines or even 3 months imprisonment. Unlimited fines in England/Wales; up to £5,000 in Scotland.
3. What Information is Required for SCPN Notification?
Similar to EU CPNP but with some key differences. Core requirements include:
3.1 Basic Product Information
Product category
Physical form (liquid, cream, spray, etc.)
Packaging type
Product name (including variant names)
3.2 Responsible Person Information
Responsible Person name and UK address
PIF storage location
Emergency contact details (for poison centers/regulatory authorities)
3.3 Ingredient/Formulation Information
Full formulation or frame formulation
Nanomaterials: additional declaration and nano-specific module required
CMR 1A/1B substances: CAS/EC numbers and details required
3.4 pH Value
UK SCPN specifically requires pH range (where applicable) — a key difference from EU CPNP.
3.5 Labels & Photographs
Must upload label artwork/design
Product and packaging photos are recommended/required
Format: JPG/PNG/PDF, max 30MB per file, up to 10 images, with clear readable text.
3.6 Other Information
Presence of restricted substances
Multi-component kits (e.g., hair dye sets) require individual component details
4. SCPN Usage Process (Operational Overview)
Official portal: GOV.UK online service.
4.1 Create a GOV.UK One Login Account
All SCPN access now uses unified GOV.UK One Login authentication.
First-time setup requires:
Email registration for One Login
Same email must match existing SCPN account for system linkage
4.2 Access the SCPN Service
Navigate via "Submit cosmetic product notifications" page
After login, create or manage product entries
4.3 Steps to Add a New Product Notification
Select "New Product Notification"
Complete:
Product category & name
Responsible Person details
Ingredient/formulation declaration (including nano, CMR info)
pH range (where applicable)
Upload label/photo files
Review and submit → System generates a notification record (not an approval number).
4.4 Modifications/Updates
For formula changes, RP updates, etc., log in to SCPN and update the product notification information.
