The purpose of the Cosmetics Sandbox is to support businesses at the cutting edge of cosmetic innovation – namely those developing innovative ingredients using bioengineering while helping ensure products are safe for consumers.

Being at the forefront of innovation is often hard because government regulation is often designed for existing solutions rather than the potential disruptors currently in the development pipeline. As a result, innovators frequently struggle to effectively navigate the regulatory framework, particularly around questions concerning safety.

Why take part?

Being in the Sandbox gives you the opportunity to:

• engage directly with OPSS regulatory and scientific experts
• discuss regulatory considerations relevant to their innovation
• explore approaches to generating and presenting safety evidence
• gain greater confidence in navigating existing regulatory requirements
• raise questions and challenges associated with bringing innovative products to market

The sandbox will also provide OPSS with valuable insight into the opportunities and challenges associated with innovative cosmetic ingredients, helping to inform future regulatory thinking.

It cannot go unmentioned that this Cosmetics Sandbox is the first sandbox in the OPSS’s wider sandbox programme. The cosmetics industry leads the way in innovation and research and the government is recognising this contribution.

What next?

To be part of the Cosmetics Sandbox, you need to apply by the 4th of December. The OPSS is looking to hear from businesses that encountered uncertainty about the UK Cosmetics Regulation when working with bioengineered cosmetics ingredients.

To express your interest, or ask questions about the Cosmetics Sandbox, email OPSS.EngBio@businessandtrade.gov.uk. You can read more about how to frame your application here. OPSS intends to get back to candidates within 3 months of applications closing.