Proper communication is a key step in the formulation process. If your cosmetic chemist is unsure of what exactly you’re looking for in a product, the end result may not turn out the way you want. So, what exactly do you need to tell your cosmetic chemist before diving into the production procedure? Below are some topics you may want to discuss with your cosmetic chemist:
Tell Them Your Non-Negotiables
When consulting with a cosmetic chemist, you’ll need to be aware of the standards you aren’t willing to compromise. If you are set on creating a product that’s cruelty-free, vegan, and FDA-approved, let your chemist know right away. If you want your product to have a specific scent or feel, be sure to discuss these details in your first meeting.
Look over your end goal and assess what you truly want out of the product. Would you be happy using a stock formula, or are you looking for an entirely custom-made product? It might be helpful to research formulation processes similar to the one you’d like to use for your product.
Depending on who you work with, certain companies may not be able to budge on specific requirements you may have. You may want to make a list of product must-haves and see if your chemist can meet those needs before creating any products.
Tell Them Your Timeline
During your consultation with a chemist, you may be asked when you’d like to see the finished product. Giving chemists a timeline to be conscious of from the very beginning can help mitigate any delay issues that could arise. Whether you’ve got a hard deadline or you’re flexible on timing should be one of the first things you discuss.
A good cosmetic chemist should always give you a step-by-step schedule after learning what kind of product you’re looking for. Make sure you work out the timeline and when to expect results. A cosmetic chemist that is communicative and adheres to a proper schedule will make the process of developing your formula much easier.
Tell Them About Your Journey
In order for your production process to go as smoothly as possible, tell your cosmetic chemist your starting point. Inform them about where you are in your product development process. Is this your first time ever working with a chemist? Will this formulation be a part of a product line that’s already in existence? Tell them how far you are on your journey and where you plan to take this product in the future.
After you’ve formulated your product, are you also looking for assistance in bringing it to market? Are you planning on creating multiple products with that chemist? Give them the full scope and context around your product development prior to production in order to get the best results. Don’t be afraid to ask specific questions about the process to find the right chemist for you.
Tell Them About Your Vision
Your chemist wants to create your dream product for you. To help them do that, they need to be aware of your vision for it. Tell them who your target market is and what your ideal customer looks like. This lets them know exactly what type of ingredients they should be using in your product to best suit your audience.
Inform your chemist of every last detail you’d like to see in your finished product, from its scent, feel, texture, etc. Be clear on the exact category this product falls under. It may help to provide the chemist with examples of current products on the market that you’d like to emulate. The more details you provide the better the end result can be.
Consulting With a Cosmetic Chemist
Product consultations should be a stress-free experience. Be prepared with the topics and ideas you’d like to go over. Trust that your chemist will get the information they need from you in order to create your dream product.
Cosmetic chemistry is a detailed process that takes time, communication, and patience. Formulating a product may take a few tries to get things just right, but that’s what keeps it interesting! Be confident in what you’re looking for in your product and don’t settle for less than you’ve dreamed of.
