In short: You can launch a private label cosmetics brand sourced from China for as little as USD $3,000-8,000 in total startup inventory — but compliance requirements in the EU (for Irish brands) and Singapore differ significantly from the US. Getting these right before you order is the difference between a successful launch and a customs hold.

Last updated: 29 June 2026

What Is Private Label Cosmetics from China?

Private label cosmetics means buying ready-made or semi-custom beauty formulations from a Chinese manufacturer, applying your own brand name and packaging, and selling under your label. You don't need to develop formulas from scratch — the factory already has proven formulations for moisturisers, serums, lip products, and more that you can adapt with your logo, colours, and packaging.

China is the world's largest producer of cosmetics and beauty products, manufacturing for hundreds of global brands you'd recognise. The same factories that produce for major retailers also accept private label orders — often with MOQs as low as 100-500 units. For a broader introduction to private labelling from China, see our guide: How to Source White Label Products from China.

What Types of Cosmetics Can You Private Label from China?

The most commonly sourced categories include:

• Skincare — moisturisers, serums, toners, cleansers, SPF products, eye creams
• Colour cosmetics — lipsticks, lip glosses, eyeshadow palettes, foundations, blushes
• Hair care — shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, scalp serums
• Body care — body lotions, scrubs, bath salts, hand creams
• Supplements / beauty ingestibles — collagen powders, beauty gummies (regulated separately; see below)

How to Find a Private Label Cosmetics Manufacturer in China

The main manufacturing hubs for cosmetics are Guangzhou (especially Baiyun district), Shanghai, and Hangzhou. Look for manufacturers that:

• Hold GMPC or ISO 22716 certification (Good Manufacturing Practice for Cosmetics)
• Can provide full ingredient lists (INCI) for regulatory submission
• Have experience exporting to your target market (EU or Singapore)
• Offer OEM/ODM options so you can customise formulas over time

The Guangzhou Baiyun district is particularly strong for cosmetics and beauty supply chains. If you need a local agent to vet factories in person, read our guide on Guangzhou sourcing agents to understand what they do and what they cost. You can also use our 12-point manufacturer vetting checklist to evaluate any factory shortlist yourself.

Regulations: Selling Private Label Cosmetics in Ireland (EU)

If you're based in Ireland and selling within the EU, your cosmetics must comply with EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Key requirements:

• Cosmetic Product Notification (CPNP) — every product must be notified via the EU CPNP portal before it goes on sale
• Responsible Person (RP) — you must appoint a Responsible Person established in the EU (typically yourself or a compliance partner)
• Product Information File (PIF) — includes safety assessment, INCI list, manufacturing records
• Labelling requirements — must be in English; must include RP name/address, country of origin, batch code, expiry
• Restricted/prohibited ingredients — the EU banned list is stricter than the US; many Chinese-made formulas need checking

For shipping your finished products from China to Ireland, see our complete guide to importing from China to Ireland. Work with a cosmetics safety assessor (CSA) to sign off your Product Safety Report before CPNP notification. Budget around 200-500 EUR per SKU for this service.

Regulations: Selling Private Label Cosmetics in Singapore

Singapore's cosmetics regulator is the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). Unlike the EU, Singapore operates a notification scheme (not pre-approval):

• Notify each cosmetic product via HSA's PRISM portal before sale
• The product must comply with the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive
• Full ingredient disclosure is required
• Restricted and prohibited ingredients lists apply
• Labels must include net content, expiry, country of manufacture, and importer details

For a full picture of importing goods from China to Singapore, including duties and GST, see our complete Singapore importing guide.

Worked Example: Launching a 5-SKU Skincare Range from China to Ireland

At a retail price of $25-45 per unit across 1,500 units, your gross revenue potential is $37,500-67,500.

What MOQ Should You Expect for Private Label Cosmetics from China?

MOQs vary by product type and factory:

• Standard formulations (existing lab stock): 100-300 units per SKU
• Custom formulations (unique formula developed for you): 1,000-5,000 units minimum
• Custom packaging: usually 500-1,000 units for printed boxes or custom bottles

For guidance on negotiating MOQs, see our article: What Is MOQ and How to Negotiate It.

FAQ: Private Label Cosmetics from China

Is it safe to source cosmetics from Chinese manufacturers?

Yes — with the right vetting. Look for GMP/ISO 22716 certified manufacturers, request full ingredient lists and Certificates of Analysis (CoA), and always do a pre-shipment quality inspection. Avoid any factory that won't share ingredient documentation.

Can I put my own label on products made in China and sell in the EU?

Yes, but you must complete the CPNP notification, have a safety assessment signed by a qualified cosmetics safety assessor, and appoint a Responsible Person in the EU. The product must meet all EU ingredient restrictions.

How long does it take from order to delivery for cosmetics from China?

Allow 45-75 days total: 30-45 days production + 20-30 days sea freight to Ireland or Singapore. Air freight cuts delivery to 15-20 days total but significantly increases cost.

Do Chinese cosmetics factories do cruelty-free / vegan formulations?

Many do — especially newer factories that export to EU and UK markets. Always ask for written confirmation and check that no animal-derived ingredients appear in the INCI list.

What's the difference between OEM and ODM for cosmetics?

OEM means you provide the formula and the factory makes it. ODM means the factory provides a ready formula you adapt. For new brands, ODM is faster and cheaper; OEM gives more control as you scale. For more on this distinction, see our OEM vs ODM Complete Guide.

How Epic Sourcing Helps Beauty Brands in Ireland and Singapore

Epic Sourcing's bilingual team in China helps beauty entrepreneurs find GMP-certified cosmetics manufacturers, verify compliance documentation, coordinate samples, and manage production. We serve brands in Ireland, Singapore, the UAE, South Africa, and the USA.

From factory audits to freight to your door, we handle the complexity so you can focus on your brand. Talk to our team today to get started.