Soap Is a Cosmetic Product
In the UK, soap is classified as a cosmetic under EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC 1223/2009), retained in UK law. Every soap sold or given away requires a Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR), full INCI ingredient listing, and Responsible Person details.
CPSR Requirement
Every cosmetic product — including handmade soap — must have a CPSR prepared by a qualified assessor before sale. The CPSR assesses safety of all ingredients, manufacturing process, and stability. Cost: typically £50-150 per formulation.
Mandatory Label Information
- Product name and function
- INCI ingredients in descending order of weight
- Net weight with e-mark
- Batch/lot number
- Responsible Person name and address
- PAO symbol or best before date
- Country of origin if non-UK
- Safety warnings where applicable
CLP for Fragranced Soap
Soaps with fragrance or essential oils above certain thresholds require CLP hazard labelling — GHS pictograms, signal words, and hazard statements. Check your fragrance supplier Safety Data Sheets.
Best Materials
Waterproof vinyl is essential — paper labels fail in bathrooms. Matte vinyl gives the artisan feel handmade soap brands want, resists fingerprints and oil smudges. Belly band labels (200-250mm x 45-55mm) wrap around the bar with space for branding and regulatory text.
Design Tips
- INCI lists are long — plan label size to accommodate at minimum 1.2mm x-height
- Use front + back labels: branding front, ingredients back
- Leave space for handwritten batch numbers
- All labels must be waterproof — even if soap is wrapped
Ordering
StickerNation prints custom soap and cosmetic labels on waterproof matte and gloss vinyl. Die-cut to any shape. Design free online.
