Development and production of cosmetics is a complex process that requires careful planning, creativity, ingenuity, as well as strict adherence to quality control standards. The composition and technology not only determine the quality of the product, but also its effectiveness, scent, and appearance. Skin care cosmetics manufacturing is divided into five main stages. Each of them requires close attention and seriousness in order for the final product to meet the requirements of customers. In this article, we will delve into detail on what processes await you at each stage of cosmetics production.
Technical Specification
The first step in the development of cosmetics is the preparation of a detailed technical specification. This is a document that contains requirements for the product being produced. It describes the desired types of cosmetic products and their qualities. Cream, lotion, toner, serum, scrub – the choice depends on the preferences and expectations of the target audience. In addition to the type of finished product, the technical specification should include a description of its purpose and the intended market segment.
The technical specification serves as a guide for all subsequent stages of development. The document is compiled with the participation of both marketing personnel familiar with customer needs and technical experts who understand production processes. It should also include information on the desired design of the packaging, requirements for the shelf life of all ingredients used in the recipe, necessary certificates or accreditations for entry into the international market.
Benefits of using a Technical Specification:
- Avoiding misunderstandings between the customer and the developer technologist;
- Reducing the development time of cosmetics;
- Shortening the time of discussions among the customer, manager, and technologist;
- Reducing the cost of development.
Recipe Development
After the technical assignment is ready, a unique product recipe is developed based on it. This stage goes through several steps:
- Analysis of the technical specification. The technologist studies all requirements for the cosmetics, including desired composition, functional and aesthetic properties, target audience, and budget.
- Selection of ingredients. Based on the requirements specified in the technical specification, the ingredients are selected. They must possess the necessary properties and blend well together to create an effective formula. Safety principles are also taken into account.
- Formula creation and testing. At this stage, the proportions and blending methods of the ingredients are determined to create a formula capable of meeting the requirements set forth in the technical specification. Then the formula is tested for compliance with the declared properties and safety for the skin. If necessary, it is improved or changed.
- Determination of physical parameters such as color, consistency, smell, and other properties that may affect the choice and satisfaction of the target audience’s needs.
- The process of skin care cosmetics manufacturing is carried out in accordance with the formula, the requirements set forth in the technical specification, and the specified physical parameters. Technological processes during production are selectively tested for compliance with the requirements and effectiveness.
- Evaluation of the finished product. The final result of production is evaluated by the technologist and directly by the client.
Samples
Before launching a batch of cosmetic products into production, a technologist creates ready-made samples of skin care products to evaluate their properties and choose the most suitable option with maximum compliance with the declared characteristics. The technologist pays attention to physical and chemical properties, effectiveness, texture, durability, and stability. Creating samples allows identifying potential problems and inconsistencies before launching production of the batch. Thanks to this approach, it is possible to reduce the time and costs of manufacturing cosmetic products, as well as to mitigate risks of future issues.
Product Manufacturing
After successfully completing all tests and safety evaluations, the manufacturer can begin full-scale production. The process of manufacturing skincare cosmetics starts with preparing the ingredients and tools. This includes checking the availability of necessary components, adjusting instruments and devices, including disinfecting work surfaces.
The actual production process involves mixing ingredients and special active components – emulsifiers, preservatives, and fragrances. All of them undergo certain physical treatments, including heating, cooling, emulsifying, dispersing, and other techniques to achieve the desired texture and consistency. The finished cosmetic product is placed into special packaging and labeled in accordance with legal requirements.
Skin care cosmetics manufacturing is impossible without evaluating the quality of the products according to specific criteria:
- Physical properties such as color, texture, consistency, viscosity, and stability are all measured and evaluated at various stages of production.
- Efficiency is evaluated based on the product’s ability to provide the claimed effectiveness such as moisturizing, nourishing, softening, cleansing, and protection against ultraviolet rays.
- Safety is of utmost importance and cosmetic products must comply with safety regulations and undergo special tests for toxicity, irritability, and allergenicity.
- Stability is another important factor and the quality of cosmetics can be evaluated based on their ability to maintain their properties and effectiveness over a certain period of time after production.
- Aesthetic criteria include characteristics that satisfy human receptors, such as fragrance, appearance, and ease of use. These criteria primarily influence consumer evaluation and perception of the product by the audience.
Cosmetics Packaging
After production, skin care products are packaged according to the customer’s requirements. This can include packaging in jars, tubes, bottles, or sachets. Before being shipped to the customer, the products undergo selection and quality control. If any product does not meet the declared characteristics, it must be excluded from the batch and disposed of.
The packaging must also be labeled in accordance with the law, displaying information about the composition, method of application, and expiration date. Before the product is shipped to the customer, documents such as invoices, shipping documents, and quality certificates must be prepared.
Conclusion
Skin care cosmetics manufacturing is a complex process that requires adherence to all the rules. Initially, technical documentation and a product formula are developed, which serve as the basis for creating samples and a large-scale batch. Cosmetics packaging in accordance with the customer’s requirements is equally important. If you want to see your product on the shelves but don’t know where to start, contact a contract manufacturer for help.