Finding a good makeup manufacturer in the UK isn’t easy.
I remember what it felt like—scrolling through company websites, asking for quotes, and second-guessing every choice. Some sent samples that didn’t match what they promised. Others went silent when I asked real questions.
Over time, I started working directly with different labs and private label suppliers. I helped brands get their products made—and learned firsthand which manufacturers delivered real quality.
This guide is based on that experience. I’ll show you 7 UK makeup manufacturers you can actually count on. You’ll get the basics: where they are, when they started, how big they are, and what they do well (and not so well).
By the end, you’ll know how to pick the right partner—and avoid costly mistakes.
So let’s get started!
Quick Comparison Chart
Before diving into the full reviews, here’s a quick snapshot of the 7 makeup manufacturers. This table gives you a glimpse of how they compare side by side.
| Manufacturer | Founded | Location | Specialty | MOQ Range | Limitation |
| Creative Cosmetics Ltd | 1987 | Ipswich, UK | Lipsticks, mascaras, powders | Custom on quote | Certification and MOQ details not listed publicly |
| MB Professional Beauty Ltd | 2016 | London, UK | Skincare + makeup (private label) | From 1,000 units | Limited public info on lab certifications |
| Surefil Beauty Products | 1980 | St. Helens, UK | Makeup, skincare, body care | Custom on quote | May not suit brands needing luxury-focused formulations |
| Exquisite Luxury | 2017 | North Yorkshire, UK | Luxury skincare + cosmetics | Custom on quote | Premium pricing may not suit budget-conscious brands |
| Cosmetics Lab | 2008 | Horsham, UK | Bespoke makeup & skincare | 500–1,000 units | Custom process can be slower for ready-to-launch brands |
| Cosmelab | 2021 | London, UK | Dermatological cosmetics | Based on product | Science-focused process may not fit fast-turnaround goals |
| Star Colour Laboratories | 2010 | Cambridgeshire, UK | Ethical colour cosmetics | Low-MOQ options | Fully custom approach may require longer lead times |
Now that you’ve seen the overview, let’s break each one down in detail.
1. Creative Cosmetics Ltd
- Year Founded: 1987
- Founders / Key Leadership: Alan Major (Founder), Anna Cusden (Group Managing Director)
- Headquarters Location: Ipswich, Suffolk, UK
Creative Cosmetics has been around for over three decades. I first came across them when a client asked me to help compare lipstick samples from multiple manufacturers. Theirs stood out—smooth texture, clean scent, and consistent quality stood out.
They’ve built strong relationships with both boutique and large-scale cosmetic brands in the UK. From what I’ve seen, they’re focused on long-term partnerships, not just quick wins. That kind of mindset is valuable when you’re trying to build a product line that lasts.
Product Range
- Core product categories: Lipsticks, mascaras, nail polishes, pressed powders, mineral makeup
- Specialized formulations or innovations: Custom formulas for color cosmetics
- Best-selling products: Lipsticks and mascaras
- Seasonal or limited edition offerings: Available upon client request
- Unique selling points: Full-service—from concept to packaged product
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production volume: Handles both small batches and large-scale runs
- Types of products they manufacture: Color cosmetics with limited skincare support
- Customization options: Private label, OEM (you design it, they make it), ODM (they design and make it for you)
- In-house vs. outsourced production: Mostly in-house, especially for filling and assembly
- Technology and automation: Uses semi-automated filling and packaging lines
Pricing & Cost Structure
- General pricing strategy: Mid-range pricing—good quality without high-end markups
- Factors influencing pricing: Raw materials, packaging choice, and production volume
- MOQ (minimum order quantity): Not publicly stated—need to request a quote
- Bulk order discounts: Offered based on order volume
- Payment terms and financing options: Negotiable depending on order size and history
Final Verdict
Creative Cosmetics is a smart choice if you’re looking for an experienced, UK-based manufacturer that offers flexibility and end-to-end services. However, you’ll need to contact them directly for key details like MOQs or certification documents before moving forward.
2. MB Professional Beauty Ltd
- Year Founded: 2016
- Founders / Key Leadership: Mariam Mahroos
- Headquarters Location: London, UK
If you’re building a beauty brand and want someone to guide you through the entire process, MB Professional Beauty might be worth your time. I’ve worked with smaller brands who partnered with them, and they often said the same thing—they felt supported at every stage, from formula to packaging.
They focus on private label manufacturing and offer flexible services. Their ingredients are EU-sourced, and everything is made in the UK. From what I’ve seen, they care about quality and making the process simple for you.
Product Range
- Core product categories: Skincare (cleansers, serums, creams) and makeup
- Specialized formulations or innovations: Paraben-free, vegan, silicone-free
- Best-selling products: BB creams, vitamin C serum, micellar waters
- Seasonal or limited edition offerings: Available on request
- Unique selling points: Small MOQs, full-service support from concept to delivery
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production volume: Can handle small batch orders and larger runs
- Types of products they manufacture: Skincare and cosmetic lines
- Customization options: Private label, OEM, and ODM
- In-house vs. outsourced production: Mainly in-house
- Technology and automation: Modern filling and labelling systems
Pricing & Cost Structure
- General pricing strategy: Mid-range—affordable but not low-end
- Factors influencing pricing: Ingredients, packaging, order size
- MOQ (minimum order quantity): Starts at 1,000 units
- Bulk order discounts: Yes, based on volume
- Payment terms and financing options: Flexible terms available
Final Verdict
MB Professional Beauty is a great option for businesses that want low minimums and hands-on help through the manufacturing process. However, brands with complex technical needs may need to confirm lab capabilities upfront.
3. Surefil Beauty Products Ltd
- Year Founded: 1980
- Founders / Key Leadership: Founded by three colleagues; currently led by Paul, son of one of the original founders
- Headquarters Location: St. Helens, Merseyside, UK
You don’t stay in business this long unless you’re doing something right. Surefil was one of the first manufacturers I looked into when I began researching UK-based options. What stood out wasn’t just their experience—but how many types of products they’re trusted to make.
If you’re after a manufacturer that treats your brand with care, not just as a number, Surefil could be a strong match. They handle everything—from your first idea to getting products packaged and out the door. You won’t need to juggle multiple vendors.
Product Range
- Core product categories: Skincare, makeup, haircare, body care, and fragrances
- Specialized formulations or innovations: Bio-degradable glitter, long-lasting makeup, and various emulsion types
- Best-selling products: Lipsticks, foundation, body lotions
- Seasonal or limited edition offerings: Available when requested
- Unique selling points: Broad product scope and flexible manufacturing options (bulk or private label)
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production volume: Can manage both small test runs and large retail volumes
- Types of products they manufacture: Color cosmetics, creams, haircare, lotions, fragrance
- Customization options: Offers private label, OEM (you design it), and ODM (they design for you)
- In-house vs. outsourced production: Primarily handled in-house
- Technology and automation: Modern equipment for filling, mixing, and packaging
Pricing & Cost Structure
- General pricing strategy: Competitive mid-range pricing
- Factors influencing pricing: Ingredients, packaging, and order size
- MOQ (minimum order quantity): Not listed—ask for a custom quote
- Bulk order discounts: Available depending on volume
- Payment terms and financing options: Negotiated case by case
Final Verdict
Surefil is best for brands that want one partner to handle a wide variety of beauty products under one roof. However, if you’re looking for ultra-specialized or luxury-focused items, you may want to ask about their specific formulation strengths first.
4. Exquisite Luxury
- Year Founded: 2010
- Founders / Key Leadership: George William Booth (Chief Executive Officer), Gordon Booth (Director)
- Headquarters Location: Guisborough, United Kingdom
If you’re aiming to create a beauty line that feels indulgent and refined, Exquisite Luxury might be the partner you’re looking for. Their commitment to quality and innovation helps brands develop products that stand out in the competitive cosmetics market.
What sets Exquisite Luxury apart is their dedication to crafting products that not only perform well but also provide a luxurious experience. From the silky texture of a moisturizer to the elegant packaging of lipstick, they focus on every detail to ensure your brand exudes sophistication.
Product Range
- Core Product Categories: Skincare and color cosmetics
- Specialized Formulations or Innovations: Customized formulations with a focus on luxury ingredients
- Best-Selling Products: High-end skincare creams and premium lipsticks
- Seasonal or Limited Edition Offerings: Available upon request
- Unique Selling Points: Emphasis on luxury, quality, and customization
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Suitable for both small and large-scale production runs
- Types of Products They Manufacture: Skincare and makeup products
- Customization Options: Private label, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), and ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) services
- In-House vs. Outsourced Production: Primarily in-house production
- Technology and Automation: Utilizes modern equipment to ensure product quality
Pricing & Cost Structure
- General Pricing Strategy: Premium pricing reflecting luxury positioning
- Factors Influencing Pricing: Ingredient quality, packaging choices, and production volume
- MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity): Details provided upon inquiry
- Bulk Order Discounts: Available; specifics discussed during consultation
- Payment Terms and Financing Options: Flexible terms; subject to agreement
Final Verdict
Exquisite Luxury is ideal for brands seeking to position themselves in the high-end market with products that reflect sophistication and quality. However, their focus on luxury may not align with brands targeting a more budget-conscious consumer base
5. Cosmetics Lab
- Year Founded: 2008
- Founders / Key Leadership: Peter James Shippen (Director), Sarah Marie Zilik (Finance Director)
- Headquarters Location: Horsham, West Sussex, UK
Walking into their lab, I remember thinking, “This doesn’t feel like a factory—it feels like a creative studio.” The space was clean and quiet, but you could tell a lot was happening behind the scenes. Jars lined the walls. The scent of botanicals hung in the air. One of their team members smiled and asked if I wanted to feel the texture of a test sample. It was smooth, rich, and cool to the touch.
That’s how Cosmetics Lab works—with care. They don’t just fill bottles. They help brands build something they can be proud of. From formulation to finish, they treat your product like it’s their own.
Product Range
- Core product categories: Skincare (serums, cleansers, creams) and color cosmetics (lipsticks, foundations, balms)
- Specialized formulations or innovations: Custom actives, fragrance-free, vegan, and trending ingredients
- Best-selling products: Vitamin C serums, hydrating creams, natural finish foundations
- Seasonal or limited edition offerings: Available upon request
- Unique selling points: Emphasis on custom formulas and close collaboration with clients
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production volume: Handles everything from small test runs to full production
- Types of products they manufacture: Skincare and makeup across a wide range
- Customization options: Private label, OEM (your idea), and ODM (they help create the idea)
- In-house vs. outsourced production: Primarily done in-house for better quality control
- Technology and automation: Semi-automated batching with modern lab equipment
Pricing & Cost Structure
- General pricing strategy: Mid-range pricing for small to medium brands
- Factors influencing pricing: Ingredient quality, packaging, batch size
- MOQ (minimum order quantity): Usually starts at 500–1,000 units
- Bulk order discounts: Yes—based on volume
- Payment terms and financing options: Flexible depending on your project
Final Verdict
Cosmetics Lab is a strong fit for brands that value creativity, control, and one-on-one support during development. However, if your goal is to launch fast with pre-made formulas, their hands-on style might slow things down.
6. Cosmelab
- Year Founded: 2021
- Founders / Key Leadership: Othmane Benmbarek (Co-founder & Executive Managing Director)
- Headquarters Location: 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, UK
Cosmelab caught my attention during a product development call with a startup client. “They actually listen,” the founder told me. “And they made it feel like my brand mattered.” That stuck with me.
Cosmelab is built on that kind of approach—technical expertise paired with real collaboration. Their focus is on crafting premium skincare and wellness products that meet dermatological standards. If you want precision, they have it. If you want flexibility, they’re open to that too.
Product Range
- Core product categories: Dermatological skincare and wellness products
- Specialized formulations or innovations: Custom formulas, clinical-grade ingredients, clean-label options
- Best-selling products: Not publicly listed
- Seasonal or limited edition offerings: Offered on request
- Unique selling points: Skin-safe, high-quality production with a science-led approach
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production volume: Supports small and large batch production
- Types of products they manufacture: Serums, creams, lotions, wellness-focused cosmetics
- Customization options: Private label, OEM (you create), and ODM (they co-create)
- In-house vs. outsourced production: Mostly handled in-house
- Technology and automation: GMP-compliant equipment and quality systems
Pricing & Cost Structure
- General pricing strategy: Premium pricing to reflect specialist formulations
- Factors influencing pricing: Ingredient grade, testing, packaging type
- MOQ (minimum order quantity): Custom quote needed—varies by product
- Bulk order discounts: Yes—negotiated per order
- Payment terms and financing options: Case-by-case flexibility
Final Verdict
Cosmelab is well-suited for brands that want to create skincare backed by science and produced with care. However, their research-heavy approach may not be the fastest route if you’re in a rush to launch a product quickly.
7. Star Colour Laboratories
- Year Founded: 2010
- Founders / Key Leadership: Kirsty Simmons (Head of Development), Nader Akhavan-Zanjani (Director)
- Headquarters Location: Linton, Cambridgeshire, UK
You want a manufacturer that doesn’t just make makeup—but works with you to create it your way. That’s what stood out to me about Star Colour Laboratories.
They don’t push stock formulas or rush orders. Instead, they focus on custom development, safety, and helping you build products that reflect your vision. Whether you’re developing a single lipstick or a full range, they treat your idea like it matters.
Product Range
- Core product categories: Lipsticks, lip glosses, mascaras, eyeliners, powders, foundations
- Specialized formulations or innovations: Vegan, Halal-certified, natural and organic options
- Best-selling products: Not publicly listed
- Seasonal or limited edition offerings: Available upon request
- Unique selling points: Personalized development, ethical sourcing, small-batch flexibility
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production volume: Fits both boutique orders and growing brand needs
- Types of products they manufacture: Color cosmetics, toiletries, skincare
- Customization options: Private label, OEM (you supply concept), ODM (they co-create with you)
- In-house vs. outsourced production: Mostly in-house for better quality control
- Technology and automation: GMP-compliant systems and clean filling lines
Pricing & Cost Structure
- General pricing strategy: Flexible mid-range pricing
- Factors influencing pricing: Ingredients, order size, complexity
- MOQ (minimum order quantity): Starts low—great for emerging brands
- Bulk order discounts: Yes, case-by-case
- Payment terms and financing options: Negotiated based on partnership
Final Verdict
Star Colour Laboratories is a solid choice if you want hands-on support while developing safe, ethical makeup in the UK. However, if you’re looking for fast, off-the-shelf solutions, their custom-first approach may feel slower than expected.
Looking for a Manufacturer Outside the UK?
You’ve browsed websites. Sent emails. Maybe even waited weeks for a quote.
Still, no one feels like the right fit.
If you’re feeling stuck, why not consider importing from China?
At YR Cosmetics, we help brands like yours create custom makeup products with low MOQs and real support. You get the flexibility and speed UK labs often can’t offer—with full control over your formula and brand.
What TY Cosmetics Can Do for You:
- Private label and OEM/ODM services for makeup and skincare brands
- Low MOQ options to support small and emerging businesses
- Custom formulation backed by expert in-house chemists
- Wide product range including lipsticks, foundations, eyeliners, and serums
- Certified by ISO, GMPC, and FDA—ensuring safe, compliant manufacturing
- Full packaging and branding support with flexible design options
Want to see if we’re the right fit for your brand? Contact us today—we’d love to learn about your vision.
Conclusion
In this guide, we explored where to find real quality in UK makeup manufacturing—without the fluff. You’ve seen which companies are reliable, what they specialize in, and how they might support your brand.
If you already have a product idea, the hardest part is behind you. The groundwork is laid. The options are clear.
But if you’re struggling to find the right fit in the UK, consider importing from China—brands like TY Cosmetic offer strong manufacturing capabilities and competitive terms.
Now it’s your move.
Ready to stop browsing and start building?
Contact us today and take the next step toward getting your product into people’s hands.
