How we develop cosmetic products – from evidence to finished product
For us, professional cosmetic product development does not begin with marketing claims, but with thorough research. We always start with a systematic analysis of current, innovative and evidence-based active ingredients. We evaluate the study situation, the mechanisms of action, the regulatory classification, the availability, the stability and the actual benefits for the respective skin condition and the planned product concept.
Only active ingredients with a verifiable function and genuine added value are considered for our development.
From active ingredient to texture – development in the laboratory
On this basis, the actual cosmetic product development begins in the laboratory. The aim is to incorporate the desired active ingredients in such a way that they are technically stable, sensorially convincing and cosmetically effective. To this end, numerous samples are created in which emulsion systems, gel structures, viscosities, spreadability and absorption behaviour as well as skin feel are specifically optimised.
Our goal is clear: to achieve the final formulation within a maximum of 30 development trials.
This requires experience, structure and a deep understanding of raw materials, interactions and process parameters. We do not work experimentally and haphazardly, but in a targeted, iterative and efficient manner – this is exactly how professional cosmetic product development should work.
Regulatory compliance is not an add-on, but part of the development process.
We always think about regulatory issues in parallel with formulation. Every formula is designed from the outset to comply with the EU Cosmetics Regulation. This includes, among other things:
– Selection and use concentrations of ingredients
– Consideration of restrictions, prohibitions and warnings
– Derivation of permissible claims and intended use
Once the formula has been finalised, the approval-related steps of cosmetic product development follow:
– Creation of manufacturing instructions
– Creation of finished product specifications
– Preparation of all data for safety assessment and the product information file (PID).
These documents are crucial for carrying out a clean scaling-up trial at the selected contract manufacturer.
Scaling up: Eliminating risk – saving costs
The transition from laboratory scale to production is one of the most critical points in cosmetic product development. Mistakes in this phase are expensive: a poorly prepared or failed production trial can quickly cost up to £2,500 per batch, without producing any usable goods.
This is exactly where we take the risk off our customers’ shoulders.
Through carefully prepared manufacturing instructions, defined process parameters and reliable specifications, we ensure:
– Reproducible results
– Safe production processes
– Stable quality on an industrial scale
This is not a theoretical added value, but saves time and money in very concrete terms.
More than just a formula: packaging, claims and labelling
Our cosmetics product development does not end with the finished formula. We also support our customers with:
– the selection of suitable packaging materials (compatibility, product protection, application),
– the development of claims based on the actual performance of the formula
– mandatory labelling in accordance with the EU Cosmetics Regulation.
– the coordination of all texts for labels and packaging.
Everything must fit together – technically, regulatory and in terms of content.
From production to fulfilment
We coordinate production with the appropriate contract manufacturer, provide technical support throughout the process and, on request, also organise delivery to the selected fulfilment centre. For our customers, this means: one contact person, clear processes, no friction losses – a key advantage of professional cosmetics product development.
Our claim: we develop real cosmetics.
At Cosmacon, we develop finished, effective cosmetics – not marketing gimmicks without substance.
We deliberately do not produce skin care products that are neutral and rely solely on buzzwords. Such products are often found in retail stores and among no-name brands for less than £5 per item.
Our claim is different:
- functional formulations
- Traceable active ingredients
- Clean development
- Safe production
We develop cosmetics that not only sound good, but also really work.
Call us now for a free consultation.
Together, we will review your cosmetics project, outline realistic ways to implement it and develop a clear, scalable strategy – without obligation and with a practical approach.
Shorten development time with white label solutions
As well-founded as individual cosmetic product development is, it takes time. Depending on the complexity, selection of active ingredients, stability tests and regulatory preparation, it can take up to six months before a new product can safely go into production.
If you want to significantly shorten this period, Tojo Cosmetics offers an efficient alternative: an extensive portfolio of immediately available white label products.
These products are:
– Technically mature
– Regulatory prepared
– Production-proven
– Scalable at short notice
This allows brands to launch on the market in a matter of weeks instead of months – with the option of further developing successful products individually at a later date.
The result: white label for speed and individual development with Cosmacon for long-term differentiation. Click here to view the white label product portfolio from Tojo Cosmetics.