Your Own Cosmetic Line under a Private Label: A Guide to Key Questions for Brands

Today, brands have more opportunities than ever to create cosmetics under their own label — without owning a large factory or managing complex logistics.
The private label format allows you to quickly launch a product tailored specifically to your audience.

However, to do it successfully, it’s important to understand the key details.
In this article, we answer the most common questions from brands and clients considering the launch of their own cosmetic line.

What is private label cosmetics and how does it differ from contract manufacturing?

Private label means choosing an already developed product or formula from a manufacturer and releasing it under your own brand.
It’s not a “copy,” but a ready-made solution that can be customized — from fragrance to texture.

Contract manufacturing, on the other hand, gives you more control over the entire process — from formulation to packaging.
Yet, the final goal is the same: to create a product that represents your brand on the market.

How much does it cost to create your own cosmetic brand in a private label format?

The minimum investment needed to enter the market is around 12,000 EUR.
You can learn more about pricing in the article by Iryna Kachmarchyk, co-founder of ED Cosmetics, titled “How Much Does It Cost to Create a Cosmetic Brand?”

Can formulas be customized when ordering private label products?

Not all manufacturers work with custom requests — sometimes they lack the expertise or face production limitations.
At ED Cosmetics, you can:

• choose a ready-made formula;

• modify an existing one, especially if it hasn’t passed certification;

• develop a new formula upon request — taking into account skin type, fragrance, texture, and active ingredients.

All R&D is overseen by Nadiia Dilai, co-founder of ED Cosmetics, scientist, geneticist, and microbiologist.
She adapts formulas to certification requirements so that each product is not only high quality but also fully compliant for sale in both the Ukrainian and European markets.

What types of cosmetic products can be launched under a private label?

You can create a wide range of products: creams, serums, lotions, foams, masks, sunscreens, as well as hair and body care items.
ED Cosmetics has the technical capacity to produce both basic and premium skincare lines.
To better understand the range, check whether the manufacturer has a B2C line and distributors.
On our website, for example, you can view available product lines and types.

What is the minimum order quantity for private label cosmetics?

The minimum batch usually starts from 300–500 units, depending on the product type and specifications.
It’s important to note that many manufacturers measure minimum orders in liters (typically 10–100 L of one product type) and do not accept smaller volumes due to production costs.

If you’re launching your first private label product, start with a single item or a minimal line to test the market effectively.

ED Cosmetics offers flexible terms for brands of different scales and provides full support for launches within the EU.

Do you need to handle your own product testing and certification?

Certification is usually handled by the manufacturer, but all test results and required documents are provided to the client.
ED Cosmetics ensures that all products meet quality and safety standards (GMP, ISO) and manages the documentation process for both the Ukrainian and European markets.
Since August 2024, new regulations for cosmetic manufacturers have been in force in Ukraine to harmonize local standards with European ones.

How to choose a reliable private label cosmetics manufacturer?

Evaluate the following factors: market experience, quality certifications, innovation, flexibility, minimum order conditions, and marketing support.
Also, consider the manufacturer’s reputation, positioning, and values — since this is a long-term partnership.

ED Cosmetics provides full support and guidance throughout the process of creating your own line — and our returning clients confirm the trust and satisfaction with repeated large orders.

How long does it take to create and launch a private label line?

On average, it takes about six months from formula approval to certification.
ED Cosmetics optimizes this process to speed up market entry, though the standard stages remain the same — development, testing, packaging, certification.

Can you order limited or exclusive product series?

Yes, ED Cosmetics supports the production of limited and custom series — ideal for clients who want to emphasize the uniqueness of their campaign or brand.
We’re also open to B2B collaborations with businesses that wish to include a cosmetic line as an additional product to increase trust and brand recognition.

If you’re ready to launch your own cosmetic line — or would like a free preliminary consultation — the ED Cosmetics team is here to help.
We accompany the entire process: from formulation to certification, production, and packaging.
Contact us, and we’ll discuss your project.