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FAQ2023-10-30T18:35:26+02:00

F.A.Q

NCC answers your questions

I’m afraid I can not supply enough raw material “flagship” of my range, can you help me?2026-04-14T17:15:49+02:00

We can assist you in the validation of a double-sourcing study.

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

I am facing an explosion of my turnover. I would like to increase my production capacity, what should I do?2026-04-14T17:15:04+02:00

Your current manufacturer can not meet your needs in terms of production capacity. We can assist you in the validation of a second manufacturer (raw materials, packaging, production process, analysis).

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

I found a product in Asia. Can I import it to Switzerland to trade?2026-04-14T17:14:25+02:00

Before putting a product on the market, you must check that the product complies with the legislation of the country where you want to market it.
Use our services to help you bring the product into compliance with the legislation.

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

I know plant extracts that have excellent virtues, I would like to make a product. What should I know?2026-04-14T17:13:56+02:00

You need to know if the plants are allowed and in what form (powder, extract, liquid). What part of the plant is it (stems, roots, leaf …). In addition … supplier who provides me the extract can provide me with the regulatory documents?
We’re here to support you.

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

I would like to launch my product line, what should I do?2020-10-09T14:53:57+02:00

In order to launch your range, you must first define what are the elements of identity / claims of your products, such as Bio, Not tested on animals, Natural, recyclable packaging, fragrance free, no dyes, dermatologically tested, .. .

In addition, you must write specifications very precisely.
We are here to guide you.

What are the steps involved in launching a beauty product on the market?2026-04-14T17:13:19+02:00

There are many steps.  To discover the 4 main steps, please see our fact sheet: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/our-profession/

A complete job, (if none of the 4 steps has been started) takes on average 9 to 12 months, however starting from one of our “standard” formulas can significantly reduce this lead-time.

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

What is a white label product or brand?2026-04-14T17:08:58+02:00

A white-label product or brand refers to a range of products whose formulation and packaging have demonstrated good stability and compatibility. The products are therefore ready to be sold under your brand. To do this, you need to create labels that include the required regulatory information.

Feel free to visit our dedicated white-label page and request our catalogs.
It is also possible to develop active ingredients under a white-label arrangement.

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

 

What budget is needed to create a cosmetics line?2026-04-14T16:00:12+02:00

Creating and launching a cosmetics range can cost little or a lot, depending on the level of quality, the number of products, and the market ambition (artisan brand vs international brand).

Here are realistic estimates for 2026:

💄 1. Cost of creating a cosmetics range (per product)

For 1 cosmetic product:

🧪 Formulation + R&D: €1,000 to €10,000
🧾 Regulatory tests (safety, stability, product dossier): €500 to €3,000 per product
🎨 Packaging + design: €1,000 to €5,000
🧴 Initial production: €5,000 to €15,000 (small batches)

👉 So for just 1 product, it is often around €8,000 to €30,000.

🚀 2. Total cost to launch a cosmetics range

Small launch (independent brand)

1 to 3 products
small production
online sales only

👉 €10,000 to €50,000

Standard launch (solid brand)

3 to 6 products
professional packaging + website + marketing
first ad campaigns

👉 €50,000 to €95,000

Ambitious brand / fast scaling

full product range
strong communication (influencers, ads)
large initial stock + team

👉 €100,000 to €500,000+

📊 3. Typical budget breakdown

A standard launch is often distributed like this:

🧪 R&D & formulation: 10–20%
🧴 production & stock: 30–50%
📦 packaging: 10–20%
📢 launch marketing: 20–40%

We are here to guide you.

 

 

How long does it take to develop a cosmetic product?2026-04-14T17:12:44+02:00

The development of a cosmetic product generally takes between 6 months and 3 years, depending on the complexity of the product, the level of innovation, and regulatory constraints.

Here is an overview of the typical stages:

1. Ideation & formulation (1 to 6 months)

  • Definition of the concept (moisturizer, serum, makeup, etc.)
  • Ingredient research
  • Initial laboratory formulations

2. Laboratory testing (3 to 12 months)

  • Formula adjustments (texture, scent, stability)
  • Stability testing (heat, light, time)
  • Microbiological testing

3. Regulatory and safety testing (3 to 12 months, in parallel)

  • Skin safety testing (patch tests, tolerance)
  • Regulatory documentation (mandatory in Europe under cosmetic regulations)
  • Toxicological validation

4. Industrialization (2 to 6 months)

  • Scaling up to mass production
  • Packaging selection
  • Manufacturing tests

5. Product launch

  • Marketing, branding, distribution

👉 In summary:

  • Simple product (e.g., soap, basic cream): ~6 to 12 months
  • Innovative or dermatological product: ~1.5 to 3 years
  • Complex pharmaceutical/cosmeceutical products: sometimes 3+ years

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

What are the production minimums? What are MOQs?2026-04-14T17:12:16+02:00

The MOQ (Minimum Order Quantities) in cosmetics — i.e., minimum order quantities — depend on several factors related to production, the product itself, and the manufacturer’s strategy.

Here are the main factors that influence these MOQs:

1) Product type
A serum, a cream, or a lipstick do not require the same industrial processes. More complex or unstable formulas (e.g. sensitive active ingredients, specific emulsions) often have higher MOQs because production is more demanding.

2) Packaging
This is often one of the most determining factors.
Standard containers (generic bottles) allow for lower MOQs, whereas customized packaging (specific molds, screen printing, embossing, custom airless systems) requires higher minimum volumes due to the cost of molds and suppliers.

3) Type of manufacturer
Industrial laboratories generally have high MOQs (often several thousand units) because they optimize large-scale production lines.
Private label labs or smaller manufacturers can offer lower MOQs for emerging brands.

4) Formula
If the formula already exists (catalog formula), the MOQ is lower.
If it is custom-made (R&D), the manufacturer spreads development costs, stability testing, and regulatory work over larger volumes.

5) Regulatory constraints
In cosmetics, each batch must comply with strict standards (microbiological testing, stability, safety). These fixed costs often increase MOQs in order to make production economically viable.

6) Ingredients and raw materials
Some active ingredients or materials have their own supplier-imposed MOQs (e.g. rare oils, biotech actives, specific fragrances), which directly impacts the minimum production quantity.

7) Level of brand customization
The more a brand wants a unique product (formula + packaging + fragrance + color), the higher the MOQ tends to be.

👉 In summary: cosmetic MOQs are mainly a balance between fixed costs (R&D, production, regulatory requirements) and economies of scale. The more customized and industrial a product is, the higher the MOQ; the more standardized it is, the lower it can be.

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

 

 

How to create your own cosmetics brand?2026-04-14T17:11:59+02:00

Creating your own cosmetics brand is an exciting project, but also a highly regulated one (especially in Europe and Switzerland). Here is a clear and realistic step-by-step method to get started.

1. Define your brand concept

First, you need a strong idea:

  • Product type: skincare, makeup, hair care, organic, luxury, etc.
  • Target audience: teenagers, sensitive skin, men, mature skin, etc.
  • Positioning: natural, scientific, luxury, vegan, low-cost, etc.

2. Study the market

Analyze what already exists:

  • Competitor brands (prices, ingredients, packaging)
  • Trends (clean beauty, Korean skincare, dermocosmetics)
  • Sales channels (e-commerce, pharmacies, beauty institutes)

3. Formulate the products

There are two options:

a) Work with a laboratory (most common)

  • You choose an existing base or a custom formula
  • The laboratory handles R&D and manufacturing

b) Create your own formulas (more complex)

  • Requires a cosmetic chemist
  • Stability, compatibility, and efficacy testing required

4. Comply with regulations

In Europe / Switzerland, you must:

  • Carry out a safety assessment
  • Have a Product Information File (PIF)
  • Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (ISO 22716)
  • Notify products on the European portal (CPNP)

In Switzerland, the competent authority is the FSVO (OSAV)

5. Build your brand identity

  • Brand name + logo + visual universe
  • Packaging (very important in cosmetics)
  • Storytelling (values, mission)

6. Find a manufacturer

You can:

  • Go through a “private label” laboratory
  • Or a manufacturer specialized in custom cosmetics

7. Distribution and sales

Choose your channels:

  • E-commerce (Shopify, your own website)
  • Marketplaces
  • Physical stores or pharmacies
  • Influencer networks

8. Marketing and launch

  • Social media (TikTok, Instagram)
  • Beauty influencers
  • Product testing / samples
  • Targeted advertising

Important advice

Success mainly depends on:

  • The real quality of the product
  • The consistency of the brand
  • Consistent marketing efforts

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

 

 

How much does it cost to create a cosmetic line? How much does it cost to launch a cosmetic line?2026-04-14T17:11:41+02:00

Creating and launching a cosmetics range can cost little or a lot, depending on the level of quality, the number of products, and the market ambition (artisan brand vs international brand).

Here are realistic estimates for 2026:

💄 1. Cost of creating a cosmetics range (per product)

For 1 cosmetic product:

🧪 Formulation + R&D: €1,000 to €10,000
🧾 Regulatory tests (safety, stability, product dossier): €500 to €3,000 per product
🎨 Packaging + design: €1,000 to €5,000
🧴 Initial production: €5,000 to €15,000 (small batches)

👉 So for just 1 product, it is often around €8,000 to €30,000.

🚀 2. Total cost to launch a cosmetics range

Small launch (independent brand)

1 to 3 products
small production
online sales only

👉 €10,000 to €50,000

Standard launch (solid brand)

3 to 6 products
professional packaging + website + marketing
first ad campaigns

👉 €50,000 to €95,000

Ambitious brand / fast scaling

full product range
strong communication (influencers, ads)
large initial stock + team

👉 €100,000 to €500,000+

📊 3. Typical budget breakdown

A standard launch is often distributed like this:

🧪 R&D & formulation: 10–20%
🧴 production & stock: 30–50%
📦 packaging: 10–20%
📢 launch marketing: 20–40%

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

 

 

What are the steps to launch a dietary supplement?2026-04-14T17:11:25+02:00

Launching a dietary supplement (vitamins, minerals, plant-based products, etc.) requires a regulatory, scientific, and marketing approach. In Switzerland (and also in the EU), it is a regulated product, but less strictly than a medicine—however, the requirements are still significant.

Here are the main steps:

1) Define the product

  • Type of supplement (vitamins, probiotics, plants, proteins, etc.)
  • Dosage form (capsules, powder, gummies, liquid)
  • Target audience (athletes, sleep, immunity, etc.)
  • Positioning (well-being, performance, beauty, etc.)

2) Formulation & development, including regulatory verification

  • Choose permitted ingredients
  • Check legal dosage limits (very important)
  • Ensure stability and bioavailability
  • Work with a laboratory or formulator

👉 Warning: some ingredients are prohibited or restricted depending on the country.

3) Packaging & labeling

Typical requirements:

  • full ingredient list
  • daily dosage
  • usage precautions
  • batch number + expiration date
  • mandatory legal statements depending on the country

4) Manufacturer selection

Choose a certified manufacturer (GMP / ISO 22000 type standards)
Quality testing includes:

  • microbiology
  • heavy metals
  • actual active ingredient dosage
  • controlled batch production

5) Notifications / market placement, including marketing & claims

Depending on the country:

  • sometimes a simple notification (dietary supplement)
  • sometimes notification to a health authority
  • in Switzerland, some products must be declared to the relevant authorities before sale
  • claims must be scientifically validated
  • medical claims are prohibited (“cures”, “treats”)
  • regulated advertising (especially health/well-being)

6) Production of the first commercial batch

  • Based on approved MOQs
  • According to completed registrations

7) Distribution

  • e-commerce, pharmacies, gyms, retail
  • logistics and storage (temperature, humidity)
  • import/export compliance for international sales

8) Insurance & liability

  • product liability insurance
  • traceability in case of product recall

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

The website is a major point of regulatory concern. What should I know?2026-04-14T17:11:05+02:00

⚠️ Dietary supplement/cosmetics distributors: are you sure your online product pages are compliant?

With the growth of e-commerce, the sales page has become a key point of contact with your customers… but also a major area of regulatory risk.

👉 Too often, we observe:

  • Unauthorised or poorly formulated health claims
  • Missing mandatory information
  • Misleading implied promises
  • A lack of clarity regarding composition or usage instructions

📌 However, the regulations are clear: any communication about food supplements must comply with labelling and health claim regulations. This includes your online product pages.

💡 A compliant product page, just like proper labelling, means:
✔️ Strictly regulated claims
✔️ Transparent information for consumers
✔️ Protection against inspection or sanctions
✔️ A driver of trust and credibility for your brand

🚨 Your website is also a gateway for regulatory inspectors.

👉 It is therefore essential to regularly audit your content and train your marketing teams on regulatory requirements.

✅ Compliance is not a constraint: it is a competitive advantage.

We are here to guide you.

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

 

White label or custom formulation? What is the difference?2026-04-14T17:10:39+02:00

The difference between white label and a custom solution mainly lies in the level of customization, cost, and speed of implementation.

🔹 White label

This is an already existing product or service that you can rebrand as your own.

👉 Characteristics:
Already developed product
Limited customization (logo, colors, sometimes a few options)
Quick to deploy 🚀
Lower cost 💸
Little or no technical development required

🔹 Custom solution

Here, a solution is created specifically for you, according to your exact needs.

👉 Characteristics:
Custom development
Full flexibility (features, design, user experience)
Longer to implement ⏳
Higher cost 💰
Often requires a technical team

In summary
White label = fast, affordable, but less unique
Custom solution = unique, powerful, but longer and more expensive

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

How to choose a cosmetic laboratory?2026-04-14T17:10:24+02:00

Choosing a cosmetic laboratory is a strategic step (whether you are launching a brand or producing a product line). You should avoid relying solely on price: quality, compliance, and support are much more important.

Here are the key criteria, explained simply 👇

🔎 1. Check regulatory compliance (priority)

A good laboratory must comply with strict European standards:

EC Regulation 1223/2009 (product safety)
ISO 22716 (GMP) = Good Manufacturing Practices
Mandatory tests: stability, microbiology, tolerance…

👉 These standards ensure your products are safe, legal, and sellable in Europe.

🧪 2. Look at technical expertise

Not all laboratories are equal:

Some specialize in natural / organic cosmetics
Others in dermocosmetics, haircare, makeup…
Some only handle manufacturing, others also do R&D

👉 Choose a lab aligned with your project (e.g., organic, clean beauty, luxury…).

⚙️ 3. Understand their services

A laboratory may offer:

Custom formulation (unique product)
Private label (existing product)
Testing + regulatory support (PIF, toxicology…)
Production + packaging

📦 4. Check minimum order quantities (MOQ)

Some labs require:

10–20 kg → accessible for beginners
500 kg or more → for larger brands

⏱️ 5. Evaluate lead times

Custom formulation: often 6 to 12 months
Private label: a few months

📑 6. Clarify legal aspects

Before signing, ask these questions:

Who owns the formula?
Can I manufacture elsewhere?
Are tests and product documentation (PIF) included?

🌱 7. Check ingredient quality and commitments

Depending on positioning:

Organic / natural (Cosmos, Ecocert)
Vegan / cruelty-free
Environmental commitment

✅ Summary

A good cosmetic laboratory should be:

✔ Compliant with standards (ISO 22716, EU regulations)
✔ Specialized in your product type
✔ Transparent about services and pricing
✔ Flexible with quantities
✔ Reliable with deadlines
✔ Pleasant to work with (communication is key)

To launch a skincare brand in Switzerland, you are in one of the best countries in the world for it 🇨🇭 (quality, premium image, biotech innovation).

We can guide you: https://www.nccreation.ch/en/ncc-services/
Request your free consultation

 

 

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