Manufacturing

Creating a new cosmetic product : the development process

Jenny Ha

October 2020

Follow our simple step-by-step guide outlining the cosmetic product development process, taking an idea from concept to market.

There are many steps involved in launching a brand or taking a new product to market. We have experts for every step of the process and we can fit into your team to guide you through any or all of these steps.


  1. Business consultation process

We set up a conference call to discuss customer needs and wants. It’s very important that all the teams working together are on the same page. 


  1. Contract / Payment 

After signing  a confidentiality agreement, our clients are required to make payment. We charge a sampling fee of $50~$100 per SKU. If our clients decide to work with us as project-based, we require a 50% down payment.    

 

  1. Development of Product profile 


Together with our clients, we develop a product profile, including  the product and packaging requirements such as the product category, desired function, color, odor, texture, size, etc.


  1. Sourcing & Sampling testing 

Based on the product profile, we ask manufacturers to develop samples of raw materials. Also, we suggest various packaging options and finishes. Our clients will have the opportunity to explore latest trends in K-beauty packaging  


  1. Package selection and design

While raw materials are being developed, it is time to develop package designs. Based on the initial product profile, the right packaging materials are chosen and tested. This includes compatibility testing, which determines whether the product and the packaging is compatible with raw materials. The packaging often includes :


  • Containers, with printing options 
  • Caps/ lids with different finishes
  • Mono box, with printing options 
  • Master carton that fits multiple mono boxes so that the boxes are not damaged during shipping process 




  1. Iteration

The client can give feedback on the sample materials, asking what needs to be changed. The manufacturers will modify the samples according to client feedback. It usually requires less than 3 iterations(modifications) until the client agrees on final prototypes. 



  1. Order & Production Management

After agreeing on the final product, clients will make payment of packaging and raw materials. We audit the factories during and before the production. Also, we quality check and make sure the printing is in right colors/finishes as the client desires. Some packages that will contain raw materials must be washed after / and before filling. 



  1. Quality control & regulatory compliance

In order to be launched, the product has to be safe to use and comply with regulations where it will be commercialized. Several quality testing must be taken such as microbiological, toxicology, stability tests in order to prove product safety.


In addition, all product components – including chemical substances and packaging, must be checked and compliant with the country of commercialization. Compliance teams must gather all the documents and information about the product that are required by countries legislation such as the Product Information File, Safety Data Sheet, Cosmetic Notification Form, etc.