Launching a lipstick, foundation, eyeshadow or full color cosmetics line? This guide explains how makeup is manufactured in a Chinese OEM/ODM factory — formula development, filling and molding, pressing, quality control, MOQ and the cost factors in your quotation — based on how WWOEM produces for private label brands.
Color cosmetics fall into three manufacturing families, and your product decides which route the factory uses:
You share your target market, price point, shade range and texture preference. For private label we select from 200+ ready-to-ship SKUs; for custom development our R&D team creates a formula for your shades and finish (matte, satin, glossy, long-wear).
Pigments, oils, waxes and actives are balanced in trial batches. Shade matching, coverage, feel and stability are reviewed against your reference before sample sign-off.
Physical samples are sent for your evaluation. Stability testing covers high/low temperature, freeze-thaw, light exposure and package compatibility so the product survives shipping and shelf life.
Bullets, cases, pans, tubes, pumps and boxes are sourced. Custom packaging — molds, printing, hot-stamping, inserts — is managed with our packaging supply chain. Note that special custom packaging affects MOQ (see below).
Depending on the family: lipstick is melted, molded and cooled; powder is milled and pressed; liquids are filled under controlled temperature. Batch records track every stage from raw material to finished unit.
In-process inspection, finished-product testing (weight, color, texture, leak, seal) and retained samples per batch. COA and batch documentation are provided for export.
Products are assembled into branded boxes and cartons, then shipped with full export documentation (FOB/CIF/DDP available).
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fully custom makeup | MOQ 5,000 units per SKU |
| Special custom packaging | MOQ 12,000 units (custom molds and components) |
| Ready-to-ship / stock products | From 1 carton; low MOQ private label from 500 pieces on selected SKUs |
| Sampling | 7-15 days including shade and stability review |
| Bulk production | 25-40 days after formula and packaging approval |
| Payment | 50% deposit to confirm order; 50% balance before shipment |
Fully custom makeup products start at 5,000 units per SKU. Products with special custom packaging or components start at 12,000 units. Stock or ready-to-ship products are available from 1 carton.
Sampling takes 7-15 days including shade and stability review. Bulk production typically takes 25-40 days after formula and packaging approval.
Yes. WWOEM offers low MOQ private label starting from 500 pieces on selected ready-to-ship products, plus a 200+ SKU stock catalog for fast market testing.
Yes. Our R&D team develops custom shades, textures and formulas for lip, eye, complexion and face products, with stability and safety testing before mass production.