Starting a cosmetics manufacturing business in Uttar Pradesh requires obtaining a valid Manufacturing Licence under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, regulated by the State Licensing Authority (SLA) of UP. This licence is mandatory for any individual, firm, or company intending to produce, process, or package cosmetic products within the state.

The application process is managed through the UP Drug Licensing Authority and can be initiated via the online portal of the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA), Uttar Pradesh. To apply, the applicant must submit Form COS-1 along with essential documents including proof of premises ownership or lease, site plan and layout of the manufacturing unit, details of qualified technical staff, list of cosmetic products to be manufactured, equipment and machinery details, and a valid No Objection Certificate (NOC) from relevant local authorities.

The unit must comply with Schedule M-II of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, which outlines Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for cosmetics. A prescribed application fee must be deposited based on the category and scale of production. After submission, a drug inspector is deputed to inspect the manufacturing premises for compliance verification before the licence is granted.