Let’s go over the packaging regulations you shouldn’t overlook in the early stages of your brand.

If you ignore the mandatory labeling requirements on packaging, it can lead to manufacturing delays, licensing issues, or export risks just before launch.
This post outlines the definition and legal requirements for primary cosmetic packaging as well as key practical tips every brand must know.

What Is Primary Packaging?

It refers to all packaging that comes into direct contact with the product

Cosmetic packaging is classified as follows:

Type	Definition	Examples
Primary Packaging	Packaging that directly touches the product	Pump bottles, tubes, jars, etc.
Secondary Packaging	Outer packaging that wraps the product	Unit boxes, cartons, sleeves, etc.

※ Anything other than primary packaging is classified as secondary. The term “tertiary packaging” has no legal basis in cosmetics regulations.

Mandatory Items on Primary Packaging

According to the Enforcement Rule of the Cosmetics Act, the following four items must be displayed on the primary packaging:

Item	Description
① Product Name	Accurate product name (no exaggerated claims)
② Responsible Distributor Info	Include company name and address
③ Batch Number	Unique identifier for production tracking
④ Expiration Date or Period After Opening	Use “EXP” or symbols like 12M

Other information such as full ingredients, volume, and usage precautions can be included on secondary packaging or separate inserts.

Labeling Guide by Item

▸ ① Product Name

• Do not use misleading or confusing names
• If it’s a functional product, use only approved claims within licensed scope

▸ ② Responsible Distributor & Manufacturer

• Example: Responsible Distributor: FactoSquare Co., Ltd., 6 Jongno, Seoul / Manufacturer: FactoSquare Co., Ltd., 6 Jongno, Seoul
• For imported products, include country of origin, manufacturer name, and address. If country of origin is labeled, country of manufacture can be omitted.

▸ ③ Batch Number

• Combine production date, factory code, etc., for traceability
• Assign individually per product; distinguish from expiration date

▸ ④ Expiration Date or Period After Opening

• Typical formats include:
  • EXP.2026.05.31
  • Best before May 31, 2026
• Usually printed via inkjet or labeling

How FactoSquare Supports You

Service	Support Provided
Packaging Label Consulting	Review and classify items for primary and secondary packaging
Ingredient Registration	Collaborate with in-house QC team for licensing compliance
Export Compliance	Provide country-specific formats (e.g., English labels, INCI) and manage approvals
Design Support	Guidance on legally required info in label/box designs

Regardless of quantity, primary packaging defines the legal identity of your product.

Even for small-batch production, failing to meet labeling requirements can result in rejection by retailers, blocked exports, or product recalls.
FactoSquare supports brands with a structural approach — from early planning to compliant labeling — so you can launch with confidence.