[ Botanichem]
FORMULATION 101: NAVIGATING THE BASICS Cosmetic formulation is part science, part art and a lot of planning. While it’s exciting to create a new product or range, it can also be daunting to figure out how to convert your idea into a real product with shelf appeal – especially if you are new to the cosmetics industry. In this article, Botanichem and Stability Testing Services take you through each step of process involved in developing your own cosmetic product.
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ormulation is the blending a of raw ingredients and carefully selected actives into a single product. The process takes several factors into account including the unique properties of raw ingredients and the chemical changes that occur when they are combined together in different ways. According to Robyn Brown of Botanichem, the ultimate goal is to create a safe, stable, effective and long-lasting product that meets the needs of your target market. In order to achieve this, it is important to find a formulator who can guide you and to have a comprehensive brief. The actual formulation process differs depending on the type of product being developed, however the starting point is always a comprehensive and detailed brief. “I cannot emphasise how important it is to put together a good brief with a solid plan and
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reasonable timelines,” says Brown. “So many good products never get off the ground because of poor planning.” Prior to the physical formulation of any product, take time to produce the brief. Do as much research as possible and include as many details as you can. The brief needs to take the following into account: quality expectations; compliance needs; budget; timing; quantities; packaging design; marketing strategy and general aesthetics. It is a good idea to have competitor products or popular concepts to use as benchmarks for your ideas. And be open to adapting your idea – very rarely does the first concept work 100%. Only once the brief has been accepted and agreed upon can the formulator move forward to source raw materials and start with product development.
