- +27 (0)23 230 0210
- sales@alchemlabs.co.za
Custom Cosmetic Development
Bespoke Cosmetic Formulations
our cosmetic research & development service
Your Vision, Our Expertise -
Developing your R&D ideas together
Our expertise lies in cosmetic product development, crafting world-class custom cosmetic formulations which can compete in the ever evolving, competitive personal care product market. We take pride in our commitment to creating conscious cosmetics, developing formulations that are cruelty-free and that feature natural and naturally derived ingredients. As a Halal certified facility, each formulation that we develop is also compliant with Islamic Law.
At Alchem Labs, we’re not just passionate about cosmetic product development, we’re passionate about skin health. This passion drives our approach to product development, putting the skin’s functions and health at the forefront of our decision making process, while staying true to the specifications of your project brief.
Backed by a team of skilled cosmetic chemists, we bring a wealth of experience to the table, particularly in the custom formulation of high-performance cosmeceutical products. From concept to creation, our team works closely with our clients to ensure that their unique project goals and requirements are met and provide comprehensive support and service every step of the way.
Alchem Labs has the capabilities to develop and manufacture a diverse range of personal care products, including:
Skincare – cleansers, toners, exfoliants, moisturisers, serums, masks, sunscreens, essences, oils, and peels.
Body care – washes, lotions, butters, balms, scrubs, sunscreens, oils, and body sprays.
Men’s grooming – shaving creams, after shave products, razor bum treatment products, and beard oils.
Hair care – shampoos, conditioners, masks, serums, and oils.
Other personal care – foam bath, bath milk, bath salts, room spray, sanitizers, and lubricants.
our RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT process
How does it work?
1
Project Brief
The first step in cosmetic product development is completing a project brief which will give us an understanding of what you want to develop. From here we will provide you with a project estimate.
2
Meet The Team
You'll meet with our chemists to discuss your brief and and help you zero in on the formulation you desire. Here we'll learn more about your project goals, brand, and target market. We'll also provide guidance and suggestions where appropriate.
3
Sample Creation
Once our team have finished the research phase of your project, they'll develop your first draft cosmetic formulation and produce samples. We'll send these samples to you, and make formulation changes based on your feedback. Up to 3 rounds of sampling are included for your cosmetic product development project.
4
Stability Testing
Once you've signed off your final formulation, we'll conduct 3 month stability testing to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of your products over time. The testing will evaluate how the product's physical, chemical, and microbiological properties change under various environmental conditions.
5
Production Pricing
With your formulation finalized, we'll be able to provide you with pricing to have your new products manufactured in the quantities you require. Our minimum order quantity for production is 5kg per product.
6
Contract Manufacturing
You can now have your products manufactured, filled, labeled, and packaged all under one roof. We're able to fill and label so that you receive retail-ready products. You supply us with your packaging, and we do the rest.
Please note that Alchem Labs does not develop or manufacture color cosmetics such as makeup, self-tanning products, hair dyes, or nail polishes.
our cosmetic research & development service
Frequently Asked Questions About R&D
What is Cosmetic Research & Development?
Cosmetic Research and Development, or R&D, is the research and development activities undertaken by cosmetic companies to create or improve cosmetic products. This process involves various stages, from initial concept development to final product formulation and testing.
What Are The Advantages of Cosmetic Research & Development?
There are several advantages to choosing R&D for a new product. The most notable benefit is that through R&D, products can be specifically tailored to your unique needs, requirements, and objectives, ensuring alignment with your brand's strategic goals and vision.
Another key advantage of R&D is that custom products can provide you with a competitive edge by creating a product that is unique to your brand, fills a gap in the market, or innovates through the use of new ingredients or technologies.
What Are The Disadvantages of Cosmetic Research & Development?
While R&D is an ideal solution for some brands, it may not be the best-suited option for others. The main disadvantages of R&D are the higher upfront costs involved, which can be a challenge for smaller brands and startups, and the amount of time it takes to develop new products which can impact time-to-market and competitiveness.
Is Cosmetic Research & Development The Best Choice For My Brand?
If it's important to your brand that you have bespoke products, if you have the financial resources available, and your product launch schedule allows for sufficient time for product development, then custom formulation could be the right option for you.
, and hen white label is likely the best solution for your brand.
Do you have a waiting list for new Cosmetic Research & Development projects?
We operate on an average waiting period of 3-6 months before starting new projects. To reserve your place in our R&D schedule, we require the signing of an R&D agreement and settlement of the deposit.
How long does the Cosmetic Research & Development process take?
The R&D process takes an average of 8 months, but can take up to a year or more to complete. The length of the R&D process will largely depend on how long it takes you to review your samples and provide feedback before we can proceed to the next stage of the process.
Can I have any ingredients I choose in my custom cosmetics?
We have an wide selection of premium ingredients available in our ingredient library. If we don’t have the one you’re looking for we can assist you in purchasing your own, or we can recommend suitable alternatives.
If you don’t know what ingredients you want, but you know what you want your product to do, our team will gladly guide you and offer recommendations.
How long does stability testing take?
Once you've signed off on your formulation, stability testing will take 3 months to complete. It is important to factor this in to your planning as testing is a regulatory requirement.
Will My Custom Cosmetics Be Halal Certified?
Our manufacturing facility is Halal certified, ensuring compliance with Islamic Law for all products we develop and manufacture. However, Halal certification is brand-specific, so you will be required to submit your own certification application. Since we are already certified, our certifying body, SANHA, offers a third-party agreement to our clients, simplifying this process.
Do I Need To Have My Custom Cosmetics Registered In South Africa?
In South Africa, cosmetic products are not required to be registered with any authority unless they contain pharmaceutical-grade ingredients. However, there are regulations, standards, and codes of practice that all cosmetic products and companies must adhere to, ensuring a very well regulated cosmetic industry in South Africa.
Ready to work with us?
Let’s take your next product from concept to custom formulation. Connect with us today!
