Paid formula vs. Forum and blog formula for hair products

[Microformulation]

Many starting Formulas are just that, a jumping off point for a Formulator. Keep in mind that they a. highlight the distributors raw materials over others and b. they are so broad that they really can’t address a clients specific marketing and claims.

If you look, usually they have the mission of highlighting an emulsion system, a preservative system or some other specific material they are selling. 

[OldPerry]

What @Microformulation said, plus if you pay for a formula, you should have a good level of confidence that it will work, be stable, and is safe to use. At least that is something you should demand from the person you are buying the formula from.

You get no assurances for things you find on the Internet.

[ozgirl]

If you are a paying a cosmetic chemist to develop a formula you will get a much better formula (stability tested, properly preserved) that is more suited to your needs than just buying one off Etsy etc.

If you just want to make products for your family and not really learn about formulating then you will probably be OK just buying a DIY formula (just look for a seller who isn’t afraid of preservatives).

Raw material suppliers and industry websites (e.g. Prospector) are great for starting formulations but you need to have an understanding of raw materials and their functions so you can adapt these to meet your needs.