Small-batch manufacturing can be enormously helpful for your skincare business. Whether you are just launching your product and you cannot afford to spend a lot on production, or you simply want to improve your product quality, small-batch production has many benefits that will help you save both money and time.
McKinsey and Company reports that the global beauty industry is worth $450 million in 2025. It is also showing no signs of slowing in the near future. Skincare makes up a huge portion of the beauty market, and complex skincare regimens have become more popular as we learn about the importance of caring for skin.
In this article, we will focus on the small-batch production process, some of the advantages of small-batch manufacturing, and how you can use this unique process for your next skincare line.
What Is Small-Batch Manufacturing?
Small-batch manufacturing refers to how goods are produced. Rather than mass-market production, small-batch production relies on limited inventory to create smaller batches of product.
Some of the key industries today that use small-batch manufacturing the most include:
- Beauty
- Pharmaceuticals
- Specialty products
- Automotive parts
- Foods and beverages
What Are the Benefits of Small-Batch Production?
Small-batch production has many advantages that you may not have considered. Here are some of the key benefits of using this method to make your skincare products.
Save Money
Did you know that small-batch manufacturing can actually save you money? You may have heard that buying and manufacturing in bulk is the most cost-effective way to make products, but that principle is not always true, especially in the beauty industry.
Testing small batches of product will allow you to change formulas and product designs without having invested a significant amount of money in making a product that is not aligned with your business goals.
Reduce Risk
When creating small batches of product, you are inherently taking on less risk. You will not have to use as much time and money to create a product that will not work.
More Flexibility
Once you begin the process of manufacturing a large batch of product, it can be difficult to turn back. Your machinery may be locked into making a certain amount of product, or you need to use up ingredients and parts before starting a new production process.
With small-batch manufacturing, you can easily switch the types of products you make or change the process more easily.
Better Quality
Smaller batches of product inherently lead to better quality. It is easier to spot quality control issues when examining a handful of units, rather than hundreds or even thousands.
Why Small-Batch Manufacturing Is Ideal for Skincare Product Innovation
How can you apply the principles of small-batch manufacturing to your skincare production business? Here are some of the biggest reasons why small-batch production may be the ideal business model for your skincare company.
Ensure Freshness of Ingredients
Quality skincare products such as NourishUs Naturals rely on fresh, premium ingredients. Larger production processes may not have the same level of quality control and cannot always guarantee the freshest components for your skincare line.
Test Different Formulas Without Exorbitant Cost
In the skincare industry, innovation is key. Whether it is using different ingredients or existing ingredients in a new way, companies constantly rely on formula testing. Small-batching will allow you to test formulas without investing money and resources into creating a large amount of product that may not work for your client base.
Cater to Customers' Specific Requests and Needs
Skincare is incredibly personal, and with so many different types of skin, you can make products designed for niche demographics. Small-batch manufacturing allows you to pivot and respond quickly to customer feedback, without worrying about shifting complex production processes or having to worry about offloading large amounts of product before manufacturing a new one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Small-Batch Manufacturing Have Any Disadvantages?
While small-batch manufacturing has many benefits that can positively impact your product line, there are also certain drawbacks to consider. One issue, for example, can be higher per-unit costs. When you purchase smaller amounts of ingredients, it can be more expensive per ounce.
To lower your cost per unit, consider buying in bulk when possible and using storage solutions to keep your products fresh. When you are ready to begin a new batch, you can pull from existing inventory rather than spend more money to order a smaller amount.
Additionally, smaller batches of product can lead to extended manufacturing times, which in turn may contribute to lower product sales. It is important to consider all factors when deciding whether small-batch manufacturing is the best solution for your company or whether a hybrid process is needed.
How Else Can I Ensure That My Skincare Line Stays Fresh?
Skincare manufacturing can be difficult for companies that need to make large amounts of product, but also must ensure the product is as fresh as possible. You must deliver a premium product to customers so that it has a longer shelf life.
Follow specific storage instructions for ingredients to maintain freshness in skincare. Look out for signs of aging that could affect product quality. A good rule of thumb is, when in doubt, throw it out.
Should I Outsource My Manufacturing or Keep It In-House?
It depends. You must consider many different factors before deciding whether to keep production in-house or outsource.
Outsourcing can often be more cost-effective, as you employ a third party to make your product for you. Additionally, outsourced production companies often already have the equipment needed, so you do not have to invest in expensive machinery.
One potential drawback of outsourcing is less control. You can work with the external company and communicate your manufacturing needs, but not being on-site to oversee the production process could lead to subpar products.
Consider Small-Batch Production Today
Small-batch manufacturing is an essential tool for any business, particularly if your product inventory is constantly changing or adjusting to the needs of customers. With this guide, you can determine how to use small-batch production to your advantage.
Would you like to learn more about how you can take your business to the next level? Look around our website for more business tips, tricks, and guides.
This article was prepared by an independent contributor and helps us continue to deliver quality news and information.