7 minute read

Top 6 White-Label Organic Skin Care Manufacturers

Humans have been using cosmetics, taking care of their skin for thousands of years. However, for the most of human history, cosmetics were prepared by the users. Furthermore, secrets of cosmetics were passed within the families.

With the advent of the industrial age, everything changed. Now the cosmetics industry is one of the largest industries. Moreover, it is a booming industry.

The European cosmetics and personal care market is the largest market globally. It is estimated to have an annual turnover of close to 80 billion Euros at retail price. In addition, it provides jobs to about 2 million individuals directly or indirectly.

Some of the largest cosmetics markets in Europe are Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, and Poland.

Figure 1 European cosmetics market (Image source: Cosmetics Europe)

As a single economic zone, the EU is a particularly attractive market with many opportunities. It is relatively easy to start a cosmetics business if a person is based in the EU. It means no duties and minimal regulatory or legal hurdles to start a business. Furthermore, no boundaries within the zone mean that one can focus on all the markets, and opportunities are limitless.

Cosmetics and personal care include thousands of products. It is estimated that about 50% of the industry’s turnover comes from skin care. Thus, it is the most attractive segment. It may include body lotions, sunscreen, scrubs, moisturizers, and even creams for special skin conditions. 

White labelling or private labelling can help anyone get started with the cosmetics business on quite a small budget. There is no need to start manufacturing or even think about products formulations. White label manufacturers provide hundreds of products for every need. As the name says, they are white labelled, waiting to be labelled as per the client’s requirements.

Business models have changed a lot in the last few decades. Many cosmetics manufacturer do not sell their brands. They rather provide manufacturing services to others.

Market ready White Label Cosmetics

Essentia Pura is a manufacturer and supplier of high quality white label CBD cosmetic products like CBD body lotion, CBD balm and other CBD related cosmetic products.

White Label Cosmetics

Qualities of a good white-label organic skincare manufacturer

When looking for White label skin care products, it is essential to understand that all the manufacturers broadly fall into two categories. Those who focus on larger clients or companies, and others who focus more on small businesses and even individuals.

Those focusing on larger companies would have high-quality products. Their products and services are also relatively cheaper. However, they would often have a larger batch size. For example, they may supply nothing less than 5000 units of moisturizing cream. Additionally, they may also frequently make products according to clients’ requirements. 

However, the second category is perhaps more interesting for new businesses. These are the companies focusing on smaller or even individual clients. Their services may be relatively more expensive, but they are ready to process small orders. Moreover, they may have an excellent range of products ready to be labelled as per the client’s requirements.

Below are some of the qualities to consider in white label organic skincare manufacturers:

Number of products in the portfolio

Most people starting the business would prefer that the manufacturer provide the list of organic skin care products. So that one can choose the products to order according to their business model or strategy. Good organic skin care manufacturers would have at least tens of products to choose from.

In most cases, these products have already been produced and are in stock. They are just waiting to be labelled and dispatched to the client immediately.

Quality of products

Quality is another vital factor. Of course, everyone would claim their quality is the best, but good white label organic skin care manufacturers would support their claims with various certificates. Moreover, it is worth understanding that many of these certificates would be needed for selling the products.

Other certifications

Other certifications mean something that can add value to the product like it does not contain GMO or is “Organic”. It is worth understanding that no official or governmental organization provides “Organic” certification in the EU or other nations. Instead, the private labs or organizations give most such certificates. 

Nevertheless, the law in most countries, including EU nations, mandates that all claims must be evidence-based. Thus, a certificate from a reputed lab would work.

Additionally, it is worth understanding that there is nothing like 100% organic. Any product is called organic if more than 90% of ingredients are organic. The same is true of the term natural. Additionally, some may use terms like “made with organic”, which generally indicates that organic ingredients are less than acceptable level.

Minimum batch size requirements

Most starters are tight on the budget. Thus, it would be good to understand the minimum number of any product that the manufacturer is ready to label and sell. However, small numbers are not essentially better. A larger batch size would mean a lower cost. Thus, one would still need to weigh the things.

Quality of services

It does not matter how good is the manufacturer. If they cannot understand the client’s requirements, it is not worth working with them. Thus, the quality-of-service matter. Some of the white label skin care manufacturers would even provide a dedicated manager to each client.

Stand Out With Private Label Products

Retail-ready formulas not your type? Reach out and develop your own custom formulation, for your needs only.

Private Label Cosmetics

Organic Skincare product manufacturing process

Learning about organic skincare manufacturing may help a bit. The most manufacturer would outsource their ingredients. It makes logic, as so many ingredients are needed, and one cannot produce all of them. However, some may specialize in only a specific kind of products any might produce their ingredients. Like some may have in-house CBD extraction. Others may own Aloe Vera farms, and so on.

Generally, organic or natural ingredients are processed before use by the industry. In many cases, only extracts are used like CBD

Next, the ingredients are tested for quality. This is followed by the mixing of various ingredients. The next step is packing the products. Then, the final certification of the product follows it. Finally, the white label product is ready, waiting for its client.

Who in Europe can supply you with top white-label organic skincare products

Finding a white label manufacturer of skincare and cosmetics is more challenging in Europe compared to the US or China. In Europe, most manufacturers are selling their products in their brand names. Nonetheless, some excellent white label manufacturers are there in Europe. Here are the top 5 to consider for your organic skin care range of products:

  1. Essentia Pura is a Slovenian company, founded in 2014. It’s a manufacturer and supplier of organic white label CBD cosmetic products like CBD body lotion, CBD balm and other CBD related comstic products. Essentia Pura aims for the highest possible standards in its quality control procedures, based on this,  their supply chain is regularly audited and all manufacturing and R&D are performed in a highly controlled laboratory environment and by a team experienced in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries.
  2. MS beautilab (Swiss, France, Czech) – It is one of the largest white label manufacturers in Europe. The company has colossal research and manufacturing in three nations. MS Beautilab provides most of its products as France or Swiss made. They even have a range of natural pigments for use in cosmetics, and also use many patented technologies. Needless to say, that quality comes at a price.
  3. Badgequo (UK)- Skincare manufacturers in the UK differ because they may provide smaller batch sizes. They also have excellent services. In addition, they provide a range of organic and inorganic cosmetics.
  4. Fancystage (Portugal) – it is a leading manufacturer of Portugal, with a massive production area. They can provide every conceivable cosmetic or personal care product. Thus, they have almost everything for skin care, hair, bath and body, oral care, and much more.
  5. HSA cosmetics (Italy) – they mainly focus on skin care and natural ingredients. Thus, they have an excellent range for skin care and hair range.
  6. Bomo-trendline (Germany) primarily focuses on private labelling or white labelling, providing a massive range of products for every need from skin care, hair and nail to decorative cosmetics.

Working with white-label organic skincare manufacturers

Starting working with white label skin care manufacturers may be a bit tricky. Most of these companies have tremendous experience in handling clients. On the other side, a person starting a business may have limited understanding. 

Thus, start with agreements like a non-disclosure agreement, protection of intellectual property rights. 

Once the agreements are in place, discuss the GMP and how they can meet regulatory needs for any particular market. Also, ask them to provide information about how their ingredients are sourced.

Once everything has been agreed, send the manufacturer the final brief with all the details. Next, ask them to provide benchmark samples.

If everything goes as planned, agree on the batch size, shipment methods, delivery timelines. Also, ensure that product has a bar code. Discuss what certifications will the manufacturer send with each shipment. Also, learn more about how they test their final products.

It does not matter how well the parties work; some issues will always arise. To err is human. Thus, there must be a contingency plan. Everything should be clear, like how the complaints would be dealt with, how the goods can be returned, who will bear the costs in such cases, and so on.

Although white label provides an opportunity to get started at small budgets, the lack of in-house manufacturing has its downsides. Thus, one should pay utmost attention to the quality of the products and their certifications. 

It is vital to remember that certifications are not just for commercial purposes. Sometimes, they may even save a business from legal issues arising from unforeseen quality issues with cosmetics.

Did organic skin care products catch your interest? We are always available at info@essentiapura for all your questions about custom cosmetic formulations. And if you are ready for your new product to be formulated, just complete the contact form.

7 minute read

What to know about importing CBD into Japan?

Japan is the third-largest economy in the world. It also means that it is one of the largest markets for healthcare products. Moreover, East Asian nations like Japan are well known to prefer natural remedies for health benefits.

Japan opened up its CBD market for global players in 2013. However, quite like other nations, since then, lots have changed.

During the initial days of the legalization of CBD, Japan allowed imports of CBD oils containing THC below 0.3%. However, some elements started exploiting this law and started importing high THC or liquid marijuana products. This forced the Japanese government to make significant changes in the law. As a result, Japan finally outlawed imports of any amounts of THC.

Overview of Japanese CBD Regulations and Laws

It is illegal to import THC-containing products in Japan. The product should be free from even minutes amounts of it (although THC in traces might be permissible).

In Japan, cannabis is any product that has THC, even in minute amounts. Thus, importing THC products is penalized under the Cannabis Control Act (CCA) and the Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act (NPCA). THC-containing products can be imported only for research purposes or medicinal purposes with prior permission.

It is extremely vital to understand that in Japan, even CBD extracted from leaves or flowers is regarded as cannabis, and thus its import is illegal.

As per Japanese law, only CBD extracted from hemp’s stalk or seed is legal. Thus, any importer would need to prove that the product they are planning to import was specifically extracted from these parts of the plant. It means that the import of THC-free CBD oil extracted from leaves or flowers is prohibited and categorized as cannabis.

Criteria & Policies for Importing CBD into Japan

Before importing any CBD product into Japan, one would need to apply for import permission from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW)’s Department of Drug Control.

MHLW would ask for numerous documents:

  • Provide certificate mentioning all the ingredients in the product
  • Declaration stating that CBD was extracted from hemp stalk or hemp seeds
  • Certificate of analysis confirming the concentration of CBD and THC (if in traces). It should also mention all the additives in the product.
  • Detailed dossier providing information of the production process
  • Photographs of the manufacturing showing that hemp stalk and seeds were used to extract CBD.

Since getting MHLW import permission is a complex task, hiring a local consultant or law firm is generally a good idea.

White Label CBD Products

Start your brand with CBD products that are market-proven and ready to sell immediately. Reach out, and let’s discuss the opportunities.

White label CBD products

Importing CBD into Japan from the EU

The procedure for importing CBD into Japan from the EU would be similar to what is stated above. However, it means that one should first apply for authorization from MHLW, along with all the necessary documents.

It would be a good idea also to include a certificate confirming the origin of products. Generally, European certificates have a higher relevance. It is because many EU regulatory authorities work with Japanese regulatory authorities.

Nevertheless, it would be better to import only THC-free products from the EU. Further, it would be still essential to confirm that it was extracted from hemp stalk or seed. THC in traces may not be an issue, and that is natural. However, products containing THC in permissible levels in the EU (with 0.2%) cannot be imported into Japan. Although, MHLW may make an exception in some cases.

Usually, Japan has very low duty rates, generally below 5%. Additionally, one would need to pay VAT on imported products. In Japan, VAT is 10% of the cost of the goods.

Importing CBD into Japan from other Countries

Importing CBD into Japan from other countries would need to follow a similar procedure as mentioned above. That is getting MHLW authorization (requiring documents as stated above). If the authorization is approved, one can import CBD into Japan.

Each batch of imported CBD must be accompanied by an invoice, certificate of analysis, and packing list. Further, in Japan, it is essential to use the metric system in documents and packing materials.

Additionally, it is a good idea to provide a certificate of origin. Japan has favourable duty rates for many developing nations. Finally, it is worth knowing that all imported CBD products would need to pay 10% VAT along with customs duties before they can be sold.

Custom Formulations With Private Label

Retail-ready formulas not your type? Reach out and develop your own custom formulation.

Discover more here

Importing CBD into Japan to Sell

As already mentioned, that importing CBD to sell in Japan is legal. However, Japanese law is quite strict, and every product is strictly checked. It is because the Japanese authorities want to ensure that CBD products should not have high THC or cannot be used for recreational purposes.

It is better to import THC-free products only into Japan. Further, one should always prove to the Japanese authorities that their product was made strictly according to their requirements.

When importing CBD consumables, one would also need clearance from local Quarantine Stations (as required by Food Sanitation Act). Quarantine Stations need to be sure that the product is free from microbiological hazards, other biological hazards, and so on.

Importing Hemp into Japan

Importing hemp oil would need to follow the same procedure as stated above. Since hemp oil is extracted from seeds, one would still need to prove that no other parts of hemp were used during the extraction (although plant stalk extract is also allowed).

When importing hemp seeds, one must provide a certificate that seeds were treated to ensure that they cannot germinate. Generally, treating hemp seeds at 90 degrees Celsius for an hour or a bit more is enough.

As per Japanese laws, the import of hemp seeds for cultivation is illegal. Nonetheless, MHLW-authorized hemp cultivators can import hemp seeds, but not others.

Japan allows the import of food products containing hemp like candies, gummies, and so on. Like CBD oil, one would need to prove that hemp was derived from hemp seed or stalk and ensure that it is THC-free or has THC in traces. The certificate of analysis should support the quality of the product.

It is worth knowing that Japan does not allow the import of animal or livestock feed containing hemp cake or extracts. In addition, CBD products for veterinary use cannot be imported.

Finally, it is worth knowing that Japan does not allow the export of cannabis. It means that if any shipment fails certification in Japan and is classified as cannabis (due to high THC or due to use of leave or flower extract), then it will be destroyed. Re-export of rejected products or shipping back to the country of origin is not possible.

To sum up, Japan is among the nations that do not differentiate between “hemp” & “marijuana.” This is vital to understand that Japanese laws say both are “cannabis plants.”1

Japan allows importing seeds, seeds products, or products made from mature hemp stalks as industrial products. Hemp seed oil is naturally CBD-free, and the mature stalk is a fiber source. Products made from other parts of the cannabis plant cannot be imported into the country.1

There is a zero-tolerance policy in the nation for THC. This means that any hemp product imported into the nation must not contain THC in any amounts, which may result in legal issues.

Hence, at present, importing CBD oil for oral use is challenging. However, CBD-based cosmetics, with zero THC and for topical use, are imported and sold in the nation.2

Due to very strict policies, one should always get prior permission from prior confirmation from the Drug Control Department (commonly known as “Matori”) before importing any CBD product into the nation.3Despite so many limitations, Japan is still to market to watch for. In 2022, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW) established a Cannabis Control Review Subcommittee, which intends to introduce new regulations regarding the legality of CBD in the coming years. It means that the Japanese market is expected to open up for various CBD products in the next few years.2

Looking into bringing CBD into the Japanese market? Look no further! Fill our web form with your request and we will get back to you shortly with the best rates possible.