BIS Certification for Skin Creams

The cosmetic industry in India is booming, and skin creams are among the most demanded products. From herbal moisturizer to fairness cream, the variety is huge – but one thing remains stable: compliance with Indian rules. One of the major requirements for manufacturers and importers of skin cream is receiving BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) Certificate.

In this blog, we will explain what BIS certificate is, why it is important for skin cream, and how can business get it.

What is BIS Certification?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standard body of India established under the BIS Act, 2016. Its main role is to prepare Indian standards (IS), ensure product quality, and prove that the products sold in the Indian market are safe, reliable and good quality.

For cosmetics such as skin creams, BIS Certification:

• Ensure that the product complies with Indian standards (6608: 2004).
• The ISI Mark allows the manufacturers to use the symbol of the trust.
• Protects consumers from harmful or substandard products.

Read More: Introduction To Bureau Of Indian Standards

Why BIS Certification for Skin Creams Is Important

Below we mentioned why BIS Certificate for skin Creams Is Important:

• Consumer protection: Skin creams are applied directly to the skin. Unsecured or inferior products may cause allergies, rashes or long -term damage. BIS certification product ensures safety.
• Legal compliance: The manufacture or sale of non-functioned products (where certification is mandatory) may cause punishment or product recovery.
• Market Benefits: BIS-certified products stand out in a competitive market and build trusts among customers.
• Export opportunities: Many countries recognize BIS standards, making it easier to expand in global markets.

BIS Standards Applicable to Skin Creams

Skin creams are under cosmetics as defined in the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. While BIS has determined specific standards for various cosmetic categories, for cream, the following Indian standards (IS) are commonly referred to:

• IS 6608: 2004 – Skin cream (quality, microorganisms specifies requirements for skin creams including safety and labeling).
• Other related standard products may apply on the basis of construction.

Documents Required for BIS Certification of Skin Creams

To apply for BIS certificate of skin creams,the applicant needs to be provided:

• Application form
• Manufacturing license under drugs and cosmetics rules (if applicable)
• Component list with fraction description
• Testing report from BIS-recognized laboratories
• Factory layout and process flow chart
• Manufacturing unit evidence/lease document)
• Applicant Identification Proof and Business Registration

Read More: Documents Required For BIS Registration

Process of Obtaining BIS Certification for Skin Creams

Below we mentioned steps to obtain BIS certification for skin creams

1. Application submission

• Submit BIS application form with assistant documents.
• Choose that you are applying under the Domestic Manufacturer Scheme (ISI Mark) or Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCs).

2. Product testing

• Skin cream samples are collected and tested in BIS-recognized laboratories.
• The test is done according to 6608: 2004 to check the pH, stability, security, microbial limits, etc.

3. Factory audit / inspection

• BIS officers can visit the manufacturing site.
• They review raw material storage, production hygiene, packaging, labeling and quality control systems.

4. Results review

• The test reports and inspection findings are evaluated.
• If everything is obedient, BIS approves certification.

5. Grant of license

• The manufacturer/importer receives BIS license.
• ISI Mark can now be printed on the packaging of skin cream.

Read More: Introduction To Bureau Of Indian Standards

Validity and Renewal of BIS Certificate

• The BIS license is usually valid for 2 years (minimum 1 year, maximum 2 years initially).
• It can be renewed up to 5 years by submitting updated documents and testing reports.
• Renewal is necessary to continue using ISI mark.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Skin Cream Businesses

Below we mentioned benefits of BIS Certification for Skin Creams:

• ISI-identified consumer creates confidence with packaging.
• Reduces the possibility of legal punishment.
• Amazon/Flipkart (which often asks for compliance certificates) improves acceptance on e-commerce platforms.
• Exports help in growth as BIS standards are recognized abroad.
• A marketing acts as a benefit, showing commitment to security and quality.

Challenges in BIS Certification

While BIS certification is beneficial, businesses often face challenges such as:

• Long documentation process.
• Laboratory test delay.
• Factory inspection readiness.
• Compliance with many laws (Cosmetics Act, Legal Metrology, BIS).

Conclusion

Getting a BIS certificate for skin cream is not just a formality – this is an important step to ensure legal compliance, consumer trust and commercial success in India. With cosmetics market being rapidly competitive, brands that prefer quality and certification are more likely to flourish.

If you are planning to launch or import skin cream in India, then your first step towards entry into the market for BIS certification. It protects your brand, protects your customers, and strengthens your reputation.