FAQs
Starting your own cosmetic brand can be exciting yet challenging. Here are answers to the ten most important questions new founders ask.
How do I start my own cosmetics brand in India?
To start a cosmetics brand, you need to:
<ul>
<li>Choose your product line (skincare, haircare, makeup).</li>
<li>Register your business (Udyam, MSME, or Pvt. Ltd.).</li>
<li>Get necessary licenses (GST, CDSCO, BIS if required).</li>
<li>Source products from a manufacturer like Whitelabl.</li>
<li>Build an online presence and start selling.</li>
</ul>
Do I need a manufacturing setup, or can I use a third-party manufacturer?
No, you don’t need your own factory. You can partner with a private-label manufacturer like Whitelabl to create branded products without setting up manufacturing.
What legal registrations are required to sell cosmetics in India?
<ul>
<li><strong>Business Registration:</strong> Sole Proprietorship, LLP, or Pvt. Ltd.</li>
<li><strong>GST Registration:</strong> Required for online sales.</li>
<li><strong>Trademark:</strong> To protect your brand name/logo.</li>
<li><strong>CDSCO License:</strong> If importing cosmetics.</li>
</ul>
Visit <a href="https://www.mca.gov.in/">MCA</a> for company registration and <a href="https://ipindia.gov.in/">IP India</a> for trademarks.
How much initial investment is required?
The cost depends on the number of SKUs and the marketing budget. Typically, starting a white-label cosmetics brand requires:
<ul>
<li><strong>Product & Packaging:</strong> ₹50,000 - ₹5,00,000</li>
<li><strong>Marketing & Branding:</strong> ₹20,000 - ₹1,00,000/month</li>
<li><strong>E-commerce Setup:</strong> ₹10,000 - ₹50,000</li>
</ul>
Whitelabl offers low MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) options to help you start with less investment.
How can I sell my products online?
You can sell via:
<ul>
<li><strong>Marketplaces</strong>: Amazon, Flipkart, Nykaa, Myntra.</li>
<li><strong>Your Own Website</strong>: Using Shopify, WooCommerce, or Dukaan.</li>
<li><strong>Social Commerce</strong>: Selling directly via Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook.</li>
</ul>
Whitelabl can assist with Amazon product listings and optimization.
How do I price my products to stay competitive?
Consider these factors:
<ul>
<li><strong>Manufacturing cost</strong> + <strong>Packaging & Branding cost</strong></li>
<li><strong>Shipping & Marketplace fees</strong> (if selling on Amazon)</li>
<li><strong>Profit margin</strong> (typically 30-60%)</li>
<li><strong>Competitor pricing</strong> in your category</li>
</ul>
Example: If your cost per unit is ₹150, price it at ₹399+ for a sustainable margin.
How do I market my brand on a budget?
<ul>
<li><strong>Social Media Marketing:</strong> Instagram & YouTube videos.</li>
<li><strong>Influencer Collaborations:</strong> Micro-influencers for affordable promotions.</li>
<li><strong>Paid Ads:</strong> Facebook & Google Ads with targeted campaigns.</li>
<li><strong>Content Marketing:</strong> Create blogs, reels, and educational skincare tips.</li>
</ul>
Starting with organic growth (free methods) and gradually adding paid marketing is a smart approach.
What are the common challenges in the beauty industry?
<ul>
<li><strong>High Competition:</strong> Many brands competing for attention.</li>
<li><strong>Customer Trust:</strong> Gaining credibility takes time.</li>
<li><strong>Product Differentiation:</strong> Offering unique ingredients or packaging.</li>
<li><strong>Compliance & Regulations:</strong> Following BIS, CDSCO, and labeling guidelines.</li>
</ul>
Building a strong brand identity and focusing on high-quality formulations helps overcome these challenges.
How do I scale my business after launching?
<ul>
<li>Expand to <strong>multiple sales channels</strong> (marketplaces + offline stores).</li>
<li>Introduce <strong>new product variants</strong> to attract repeat customers.</li>
<li>Invest in <strong>performance marketing</strong> (Facebook, Google, influencer partnerships).</li>
<li>Offer <strong>subscription models</strong> for repeat purchases (monthly skincare kits).</li>
<li>Partner with salons, spas, and retailers for bulk sales.</li>
</ul>
How does Whitelabl.in work?
Whitelabl.in helps you launch your own skincare or haircare brand by providing white-label manufacturing, product customization, and packaging solutions. You choose products, upload your design, and we handle production and delivery.
What if I don’t have a GST number?
<span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">If you don’t have a GST number, Whitelabl.in will be labeled as the marketer of the product. The brand owner and Whitelabl will sign an agreement to safeguard both parties’ rights while ensuring smooth business operations.</span>
Do I need a manufacturing license?
No, you don’t need a manufacturing license because Whitelabl.in partners with certified manufacturers who are legally authorized to produce cosmetics.
Can I customize product ingredients?
Yes! You can either select from our pre-approved formulations or request custom formulations based on your brand’s needs.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
Our MOQs are kept low to help startups launch easily. The exact MOQ depends on the product type, but we offer flexible options.
How do I sell my products on Amazon or Flipkart?
We assist with Amazon setup, including <strong>brand registration, listing, and fulfillment guidance</strong>. Flipkart and other marketplaces have similar onboarding processes.
How much does it cost to start?
Your cost depends on the number of products, packaging, and branding choices. Since we offer near-factory pricing, you can start with a minimal budget.
Do you provide packaging and label design?
Yes! You can upload your own design, or we can help you create a professional label and packaging design for your brand.
What about legal compliance for selling cosmetics in India?
We recommend registering your business and ensuring compliance with <strong>CDSCO, BIS, and labeling requirements</strong>. Whitelabl.in does not provide legal assistance but can guide you on general compliance.
How long does it take to deliver products?
Production typically takes <strong>2–4 weeks</strong>, depending on order volume and customization. Shipping timelines vary based on location.
How can Whitelabl help me launch and grow my brand?
Whitelabl provides:
<ul>
<li><strong>Product Manufacturing & Branding</strong> – Ready-to-sell cosmetics with your label.</li>
<li><strong>Low Minimum Orders</strong> – Start small and scale up.</li>
<li><strong>Amazon Seller Assistance</strong> – Get help with listing and marketing.</li>
<li><strong>Competitive Pricing</strong> – Near factory-level pricing for better profit margins.</li>
</ul>