How to start Korean cosmetics private label

How to Start Your Own K-Beauty Brand - Korean cosmetics private label?

A Quick Overview of Launching Korean Cosmetics Private Label

With global interest in K-beauty continuously on the rise, more individuals and small businesses are launching beauty brands through private label production. However, because the process isn't always clearly explained, many people feel it's a hard industry to break into.

Today, we’re sharing a simple breakdown of how you can do Korean cosmetics private label — from planning to manufacturing.

1. Product Planning: What Do You Want to Create?

The very first step is deciding what kind of cosmetic product you want to develop.

We started by identifying the needs of our target customers and focused on the following elements:

• Ingredients

  What are the trending, low-irritant ingredients right now?

• Texture

  Lightweight and non-sticky? Or rich and deeply moisturizing?

• Scent

  Fragrance-free? Naturally derived? Or sweet and emotional?

• Skin Type

  Sensitive, oily, dry — who is this product for?

2. Requesting Samples & Product Testing

Based on your initial plan, reach out to OEM/ODM manufacturers to request samples.

In reality, samples often feel different from your expectations, so it’s crucial to try them yourself and check key aspects like:

• Application feel, absorption, and residue

• Scent longevity and naturalness

• Compatibility between formula and packaging

  (e.g., a runny formula in a tube might be inconvenient)

3. Packaging Design & Volume Selection

Once you're satisfied with your sample, it's time to move into branding.

• Logo, Label, & Design

  Choose colors and fonts that reflect your brand identity

• Packaging Type & Volume

  Tubes, pumps, mists — consider what's most user-friendly

• Usability Testing

  Ensure it's leak-proof, functional, and easy for customers to use

4. Manufacturing & Pre-Launch Preparation

After finalizing your design, you’ll sign a contract with the manufacturer and move into mass production.

At this stage, you'll also need to prepare:

• Barcode registration & ingredient labeling

• Product registration with manufacturers

• Regulatory documents

• Certifications for international markets 

  (e.g., FDA for the US, CPNP for Europe, etc.)

  
  

During this process, two key terms come up often:

• MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)

  The minimum number of units required per order. This varies depending on the packaging, formula complexity, etc.

  
  

  → At Nextpangaea, MOQ typically starts from 3,000 units.

  
  

• Lead Time

  The time it takes from finalizing the sample to full production and delivery.

  → At Nextpangaea, lead time is usually around 5–7 weeks, depending on ingredient sourcing and packaging details.

  
  

  On average, private label production takes 8 to 10 weeks, and in more complex cases, it can take over 12 weeks.

  
  

  But with Nextpangaea, it can take as little as just 5 weeks from sample confirmation to launch! 🙌

  
  

Launching just one skincare product involves quite a few steps — but that's also what makes it so rewarding!

If you’re curious about starting your own brand, we’ll continue sharing real, practical tips based on our own journey.

Feel free to contact us or drop the comment if you have any questions! 🙌

Contact Us!