Cosmetic, Natural Health Product, or Medication? Your Guide to Health Canada Definitions

Navigating Canada’s health product regulations can feel a bit like solving a Rubik’s cube… in the dark… with one hand tied behind your back. Whether you’re launching a skincare serum, a herbal supplement, or a prescription-grade acne treatment, getting the classification right is crucial. Health Canada uses specific definitions to sort products into three main categories: cosmetics, natural health products (NHPs), and medications (or drugs). Misclassifying your product doesn’t just slow things down—it can derail your entire launch.
This article breaks down the essentials. We’ll walk you through how Health Canada defines each category, what factors affect classification, and how much it’ll cost you to get that all-important approval. Plus, we’ll talk strategy—how to handle grey areas and how a regulatory partner like Integrative Consulting Group can take the stress out of importing, licensing, and even logistics. Sound good? Let’s get into it.
Successfully Export Skin Products into Canada: A Guide to Understanding HS Codes and Shipping Practices

Successfully Export Skin Products into Canada:A Guide to Understanding HS Codes and Shipping Practices Introduction Exporting skin care products into Canada can be a game-changer for your brand—but only if you navigate the rules right. Canada has a well-regulated import system, especially for cosmetics, chemical-based formulations, and anything that might be classified as a […]
Your Guide to Export Logistics

Exporting skincare products into Canada can be a lucrative move for LATAM-based companies, but it’s not without its hurdles. From shipping regulations to product approvals, the logistics can be—well, a bit of a maze. Add in the fact that some skincare ingredients fall under “dangerous goods” classifications, and suddenly you’re knee-deep in paperwork and compliance lingo. But don’t worry, we’re here to untangle that mess. Whether you’re a first-time exporter or looking to refine your operations, this guide breaks down the essentials you really need to know.
Skincare Export: Canada’s Growing Market

Skincare Export: Canada’s Growing Market Trust a Licensed Canadian Importer Introduction Canada’s skincare export market is booming—and it’s not just maple syrup and moose anymore. With a growing demand for clean, sustainable, and ethically sourced beauty products, Canadian consumers are becoming increasingly savvy about what they put on their skin. This shift creates a golden […]