How to Source Cosmetic Ingredients If You’re Just Getting Started

One of the most common challenges for indie formulators and early-stage brands is sourcing raw materials. You can have a great product idea, but without access to the right ingredients in reasonable quantities, you’re stuck.

Finding high-quality, well-documented raw materials at small volumes is possible but it takes strategy. Here’s how to navigate ingredient sourcing when you’re not ordering by the drum.

1. Start With a Clear Ingredient Strategy

Before you source anything, get specific:

• What function are you sourcing for (e.g., emulsifier, humectant, preservative)?

• Do you have any constraints (natural origin, vegan, allergen-free)?

• What’s the INCI name and, if possible, a preferred trade name or supplier?

Don’t search for “natural surfactant”, search for “sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, 30% active.” The more precise your ask, the better your results.

2. Use Small-Batch Suppliers for R&D and Prototyping

Platforms like Lotioncrafter, Making Cosmetics, and SimplyIngredients are tailored for small-scale formulators. They:

• Break down bulk ingredients into manageable sizes

• Offer INCI transparency and basic documentation (SDS, COA)

• Provide access to both functional and trendy actives

Best for:

• Testing ingredients

• Formulating in batches under 1 kg

• Early-stage concept development

Watch out for:

• Higher cost per gram

• Branded ingredient names that may differ from commercial versions

• Limited access to detailed technical data

3. Stay Cautious With Marketplace Sellers

Amazon, Etsy, and other general marketplaces often carry cosmetic ingredients but quality and traceability are inconsistent. Many listings:

• Use vague or incorrect INCI names

• Lack documentation or batch data

• Repackage without proper quality control

If a seller won’t provide a COA, SDS, and ingredient source, skip it.

4. Contact Distributors Even If You’re Small

Distributors like Essential Ingredients or Glenn Corp may work with small formulators, especially if:

• You’re professional in your communication

• You’re requesting samples for future production

• You express intent to grow with them

Ask clear, specific questions:

• What’s the minimum order for R&D quantities?

• Can I sample before buying full-size?

• Do you have documentation for regulatory compliance?

Sometimes, building a relationship early helps you secure flexibility later.

5. Don’t Forget About Documentation

Even in small batches, proper documentation matters:

• SDS (Safety Data Sheet): For handling and compliance

• COA (Certificate of Analysis): For quality and consistency

• TDS (Technical Data Sheet): For understanding performance

If your supplier doesn’t offer these, or dodges the question,you’re taking a risk, especially if you’re planning to go to market or work with contract manufacturers later.

6. Plan Around Lead Times and Ingredient Shelf Life

When working at small scale, it’s tempting to buy “just in time.”But if your emulsifier has a six-week lead time or goes out of stock, you’re stuck.

• Keep a buffer of high-use ingredients

• Track expiration dates, especially for oils and actives

• Store materials properly to extend shelf life

Smart inventory planning saves you from reformulation delays and unnecessary waste.

7. Build Long-Term Relationships Early

Even as a small buyer, act like a pro:

• Be prompt and clear in communication

• Treat samples and documentation seriously

• Follow up when you’re scaling up

Suppliers remember formulators who are organized and growing. Being a small customer today doesn’t mean you’ll stay that way and the right supplier will recognize that.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a massive brand to source high-quality raw materials but you do need to be strategic, skeptical and professional.