Custom formulation and ODM: a formula built to your brief
In an ODM project our R&D team develops a new formula to your brief: target customer, texture, fragrance, claims you want to explore and price point. You test lab samples, we refine them with your feedback, and the approved formula moves into production. Custom formulas are quoted per brief.
Choose this route when no ready formula matches your idea. The quality of the brief is the biggest factor in how smoothly a custom project runs, so spend time on it before you send it.
How a custom formulation project runs
- Brief. Describe the product, user, texture, scent direction, packaging idea, target price and destination market.
- Lab samples. Our R&D team develops a first round of samples for you to evaluate.
- Refine. You give feedback; we adjust texture, fragrance, appearance and performance.
- Approve and scale. The approved formula is documented and moved into production at batch size, with pack compatibility checked.
What to put in your brief
| Item | Useful detail |
|---|---|
| Product type | Serum, lotion, wash, spray, balm, oil and so on |
| Texture and finish | Light, rich, gel, foaming, fast-absorbing |
| Fragrance | Scent direction, fragrance-free, or your own fragrance |
| Ingredients | Ingredients you want, and any you must avoid |
| Claims | Cosmetic claims you plan to make, so we can plan evidence |
| Pack | Pack type, as it affects the formula. See airless vs dropper |
| Market | Where you will sell, as it shapes ingredients and documents |
Start from something close
Many brands save time by naming a ready formula that is nearly right and describing the difference. Browse skincare, body care or hair care, or use the product builder to turn a concept into a brief. The ingredient and concern hubs show what already exists.
Our custom formulation service page has more detail, and ready formula vs custom formulation compares the routes.
Custom formulation / ODM: questions
Is there a minimum order for custom formulas?
Custom formulas are quoted per brief. Quantity depends on the product, the pack and the development effort, so state your intended first order in the brief.
How long does development take?
It depends on how complex the product is and how quickly feedback rounds happen. We confirm a timeline once we have read your brief.
Do I own the formula?
Ownership and exclusivity terms are agreed in writing before development starts. Raise this in your first message.
Can you match a texture or scent I like?
Share the reference and describe what you like about it. We develop to the brief rather than copying another company's product.
Will you test claims?
We coordinate the testing your importer or retailer asks for. Tell us the market and the claims at inquiry stage.