I thought I found “the one.”
Great branding. Good pitch. A friendly rep.
But when the first batch came in, I knew something was wrong. The shades didn’t match the approved samples. The packaging looked cheap.
It was embarrassing. I trusted the wrong manufacturer.
Since then, I’ve worked behind the scenes with several makeup labs. I’ve watched how they formulate, how they scale, and how they communicate with clients. Some shine. Others cut corners.
In this article, I’ll show you 7 companies that have a proven track record. You’ll learn about their background, size, pros, and cons.
If you’re trying to find a trusted manufacturer to bring your makeup line to life. This guide gives you the tools to do it right.
So let’s start!
Quick Comparison Chart
Before diving into each manufacturer in detail, here’s a quick look at how they compare across key areas. This table gives you a fast overview so you can spot the differences at a glance.
| Manufacturer | Founded | Location | Core Products | Specialties / Strengths | Limitations |
| Contemporary Cosmetics Group | 1939 | Newark, NJ | Skincare, color cosmetics | Custom formulation, long history | May not suit fast-paced digital-first brands |
| MANA Products | 1975 | Long Island City, NY | High-end skincare and makeup | Luxury focus, in-house R&D | Geared toward premium/luxury markets |
| Lady Burd Cosmetics | 1960 | Farmingdale, NY | Full cosmetic range | Low MOQs, great for startups | Catalog may overwhelm indecisive founders |
| RainShadow Labs | 1983 | St. Helens, OR | Skincare, body, and hair care | Organic, eco-conscious formulations | Limited synthetic options |
| Columbia Cosmetics Mfg. Inc. | 1978 | San Leandro, CA | Full personal care and beauty | Large facility, wide customization | Process may feel rigid for highly experimental brands |
| Radical Cosmetics | 2003 | Fort Pierce, FL | Mineral makeup, skincare | Clean, cruelty-free, mineral focus | May not offer synthetic or high-tech formulations |
| Voyant Beauty | 1989 | Hodgkins, IL | Full beauty & personal care | End-to-end support, high capacity, sustainability | May better suit larger, fast-scaling businesses |
Let’s move on to a closer look at each manufacturer, starting from the top.
1. Contemporary Cosmetics Group
- Founders / Key Leadership: Charlie Marlow (Founder), Mike Assante, Lou Assante
- Headquarters Location: Newark, New Jersey
I still remember walking into their facility for the first time. It felt like stepping into a lab where every corner had a purpose—and every team member had pride in what they were making. I was working with a client on a custom lipstick formula, and Contemporary Cosmetics Group made the process smooth, even exciting.
Contemporary Cosmetics Group was established in 1939. They’ve been in business for over 80 years and are still family-owned. Through factory fires, changing trends, and decades of growth, they’ve stayed consistent. Their focus? Creating fully custom skincare and makeup products under one roof.
Product Range
- Core Product Categories: Skincare (lotions, creams, serums), color cosmetics (lipsticks, foundations, pressed powders)
- Specialized Formulations or Innovations: Custom-blended formulas developed in-house
- Best-Selling Products: Anti-aging creams, matte lipsticks
- Seasonal or Limited Edition Offerings: Available on request
- Unique Selling Points: Flexible custom formulation, both from scratch and by modifying proven recipes
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Handles both small batch and large-scale manufacturing
- Types of Products Manufactured: Serums, creams, lip products, foundations, and more
- Customization Options: Private label, OEM (your brand, their production), ODM (they create and manufacture)
- In-House vs. Outsourced: Fully in-house for tighter quality control
- Technology and Automation: Modern filling, pressing, and molding systems combined with manual inspection
Customer Support & After-Sales Service
- Communication Channels: Phone and email
- Responsiveness and Support Quality: Known for quick, helpful replies
- Dedicated Account Managers: Yes, for active projects
- Handling of Complaints and Issues: Resolved directly and with care
- Training and Educational Support: Offers guidance during product planning and development
Final Verdict
Contemporary Cosmetics Group is ideal if you’re looking for a steady, experienced partner with full in-house control. However, they may not be the best fit if you need ultra-fast lead times or large tech-driven systems.
2. MANA Products
- Founders / Key Leadership: Nikos P. Mouyiaris (Founder), Robert Jaegly (CEO)
- Headquarters Location: Long Island City, New York
If you’re looking for a manufacturer that blends creativity with technical skill, MANA Products stands out. I once worked with them on a custom skincare line. Their team asked smart questions and truly cared about the outcome. That made the process easier—and the final product even better.
MANA was founded in 1975. They now have over 800 employees and decades of cosmetic manufacturing experience. Their FDA-registered and GMP-certified facilities meet high safety and quality standards.
Product Range
- Core Product Categories: Color cosmetics (foundations, lipsticks), skincare (serums, creams), hair care
- Specialized Formulations or Innovations: Hybrid formulas that combine skincare and makeup
- Best-Selling Products: Full-coverage foundations, anti-aging creams
- Seasonal or Limited Edition Offerings: Available upon request
- Unique Selling Points: Fast trend response and strong in-house R&D (research and development)
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Can handle both small and large production runs
- Types of Products Manufactured: Skincare, color cosmetics, hair care
- Customization Options: Private label, OEM (your brand, their production), ODM (they design and manufacture for you)
- In-House vs. Outsourced: Mostly in-house
- Technology and Automation: Uses advanced machines for mixing, filling, and packaging
Customer Support & After-Sales Service
- Communication Channels: Phone and email
- Responsiveness and Support Quality: Quick responses, especially with active projects
- Dedicated Account Managers: Yes
- Handling of Complaints and Issues: Proactive and resolution-focused
- Training and Educational Support: Helps guide new brands through product development
Final Verdict
MANA Products is great for brands that want innovation, flexibility, and reliable results. However, their detailed approach may be a better fit for businesses ready to invest in long-term development.
3. Lady Burd Cosmetics
- Founders / Key Leadership: Roberta Burd (Founder)
- Headquarters Location: Farmingdale, New York
If you’re launching a makeup brand and want a hands-on partner, Lady Burd is a strong choice. I worked with them on a small batch of lip balms once. My budget was tight, but they didn’t rush me. Their staff walked me through the process step by step. I never felt lost or ignored.
Lady Burd was founded in 1960 and has been making private label cosmetics for over 60 years. They’re especially popular with small businesses and first-time brand owners. With low minimum order quantities and a huge library of products, they make it easier for you to get started without huge upfront costs.
Product Range
- Core Product Categories: Skincare, color cosmetics, hair care, personal care
- Specialized Formulations or Innovations: Custom formulas and reverse engineering of existing products
- Best-Selling Products: Retinol serums, natural lip glosses
- Seasonal or Limited Edition Offerings: Available upon request
- Unique Selling Points: Thousands of shades, scents, and textures available with full private label support
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Handles both small and large-scale orders
- Types of Products Manufactured: Skincare, makeup, hair, and body care
- Customization Options: Private label, OEM (your brand, their formula), ODM (they create the product for you)
- In-House vs. Outsourced: Mostly in-house production
- Technology and Automation: Uses updated machinery for batching, filling, and packaging
Customer Support & After-Sales Service
- Communication Channels: Phone, email, WhatsApp
- Responsiveness and Support Quality: Helpful, especially for new clients
- Dedicated Account Managers: Yes
- Handling of Complaints and Issues: Issues are handled directly and professionally
- Training and Educational Support: Offers product guidance and help with branding decisions
Final Verdict
Lady Burd is a great option if you want low minimums, flexibility, and a team that cares about your success. However, their huge product selection may feel overwhelming if you’re unsure what you want to launch.
4. RainShadow Labs
- Founders / Key Leadership: Diana Madrid (CEO)
- Headquarters Location: St. Helens, Oregon
If you’re someone who values clean beauty, RainShadow Labs might feel like home. I once partnered with them on a plant-based serum. Their lab smelled of herbs and essential oils. The team was calm, focused, and helpful. They walked us through natural ingredients without pressure or sales fluff. The entire process felt honest and intentional.
RainShadow Labs was founded in 1983. With over 40 years in the skincare space, they’ve built a strong reputation for organic, sustainable products. Their facility is FDA-registered and cGMP compliant, which means they follow safe, high-quality practices during production.
Product Range
- Core Product Categories: Skincare (cleansers, serums, creams), body care, and hair care
- Specialized Formulations or Innovations: Organic and natural formulations
- Best-Selling Products: Vitamin C serum, hyaluronic acid moisturizer
- Seasonal or Limited Edition Offerings: Available on request
- Unique Selling Points: Focus on clean, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly ingredients
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Handles both small and large batch production
- Types of Products Manufactured: Skincare, body care, hair care
- Customization Options: Private label, OEM (your brand, their formula), ODM (they design and make the product)
- In-House vs. Outsourced: Mostly in-house
- Technology and Automation: Uses updated equipment for mixing, filling, and packaging
Customer Support & After-Sales Service
- Communication Channels: Phone and email
- Responsiveness and Support Quality: Quick and attentive support
- Dedicated Account Managers: Yes
- Handling of Complaints and Issues: Handled directly with transparency
- Training and Educational Support: Offers guidance during product setup and launch
Final Verdict
RainShadow Labs is a solid choice if you want to launch a clean, plant-based skincare line. However, they may not suit brands that rely on synthetic actives or bold cosmetic trends.
5. Columbia Cosmetics Manufacturing Inc.
- Founders / Key Leadership: John Matise (CEO)
- Headquarters Location: San Leandro, California
I walked into their facility thinking, “This place means business.” The scent of fresh product, the hum of mixers, and lab coats moving with focus—it all felt serious. I had my idea ready, but they didn’t rush me. Instead, they asked, “What’s the goal of your formula?” That question stuck with me.
Columbia Cosmetics was founded in 1978. Since then, they’ve grown into one of the largest private label manufacturers in North America. Their 65,000-square-foot facility handles everything in-house—from lab formulation to packaging.
Product Range
- Core Product Categories: Skincare, color cosmetics, hair care, personal care
- Specialized Formulations or Innovations: Liposomes, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), essential oils
- Best-Selling Products: Custom-requested color cosmetics, serums, and lotions
- Seasonal or Limited Edition Offerings: Available upon request
- Unique Selling Points: Huge product library and full in-house support for custom ideas
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Handles small to large-scale manufacturing
- Types of Products Manufactured: Makeup, skin care, body care, and hair care
- Customization Options: Private label, OEM (your brand, their process), ODM (they create the product for you)
- In-House vs. Outsourced: Mostly in-house
- Technology and Automation: Modern filling, blending, and labeling systems
Customer Support & After-Sales Service
- Communication Channels: Phone and email
- Responsiveness and Support Quality: Supportive team with fast follow-up
- Dedicated Account Managers: Yes
- Handling of Complaints and Issues: Resolved professionally and clearly
- Training and Educational Support: Helpful during planning and launch phases
Final Verdict
Columbia Cosmetics is a great match if you want end-to-end support and room to scale your product line. However, their structured process may not appeal to brands that prefer a more flexible or experimental development style.
6. Radical Cosmetics
- Founders / Key Leadership: Fenton Baijnath (CEO)
- Headquarters Location: Fort Pierce, Florida
The first time I called Radical Cosmetics, I was nervous. I said, “I need a clean, non-toxic lip gloss—but I don’t want it to feel sticky.” Their reply was simple: “Let’s talk about texture and finish. We can make it work.” That honesty pulled me in. They weren’t just taking an order. They were building something with me.
Radical Cosmetics was founded in 2003. It’s a family-owned manufacturer known for clean beauty and cruelty-free color cosmetics. They offer private label and contract manufacturing for brands that care about what goes into their products—and what doesn’t.
Product Range
- Core Product Categories: Lipsticks, foundations, eyeshadows, moisturizers, and cleansers
- Specialized Formulations or Innovations: Mineral-based and organic ingredient options
- Best-Selling Products: Pressed powders, lip glosses, and mineral foundation
- Seasonal or Limited Edition Offerings: Available upon request
- Unique Selling Points: Focus on clean beauty, cruelty-free practices, and eco-friendly sourcing
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Handles both small batch and large-scale orders
- Types of Products Manufactured: Color cosmetics and skincare products
- Customization Options: Private label, OEM (your brand, their process), ODM (they develop from scratch)
- In-House vs. Outsourced: Mostly in-house for better control
- Technology and Automation: Modern equipment used for blending, filling, and packaging
Customer Support & After-Sales Service
- Communication Channels: Phone and email
- Responsiveness and Support Quality: Friendly and fast communication
- Dedicated Account Managers: Yes
- Handling of Complaints and Issues: Addressed quickly and professionally
- Training and Educational Support: Offers guidance through early product development
Final Verdict
Radical Cosmetics is a strong pick for brands focused on clean, ethical, and mineral-based beauty lines. However, their ingredient philosophy may not fit brands looking for bold synthetics or experimental formulas.
7. Voyant Beauty
- Founders / Key Leadership: Ed Byczynski (CEO)
- Headquarters Location: Hodgkins, Illinois
When I first sat down with Voyant Beauty, they asked, “What kind of impact do you want your product to have on people?” That question stopped me. It wasn’t about scent or texture—it was about emotion. That’s when I knew they were serious about helping brands grow with purpose.
Voyant Beauty was founded in 1989. Today, they have over 3,000 employees and facilities across the U.S. They’re known for handling everything—formulation, manufacturing, packaging, and even logistics—all under one roof.
Product Range
- Core Product Categories: Skincare, hair care, bath and body, sun care, OTC (over-the-counter) topical drugs
- Specialized Formulations or Innovations: Clean beauty, refillable packaging, natural ingredient systems
- Best-Selling Products: Shampoos, conditioners, body lotions, facial creams
- Seasonal or Limited Edition Offerings: Available upon request
- Unique Selling Points: Full-service development from idea to shelf, with strong focus on sustainability and compliance
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Supports both small batch and high-volume production
- Types of Products Manufactured: Personal care, skincare, hair care, and sun care
- Customization Options: Private label, OEM (your brand, their factory), ODM (they design and produce for you)
- In-House vs. Outsourced: Mostly in-house for better speed and control
- Technology and Automation: Advanced production systems that improve consistency and efficiency
Customer Support & After-Sales Service
- Communication Channels: Phone and email
- Responsiveness and Support Quality: Quick to respond and clear in communication
- Dedicated Account Managers: Yes
- Handling of Complaints and Issues: Professional, with a focus on resolving issues early
- Training and Educational Support: Offers guidance during product development and scalin
Final Verdict
Voyant Beauty is a strong partner if you want full-service support and the ability to grow fast. However, their scale and systems may be more comfortable for established brands than very early-stage startups.
Looking for a Manufacturer Outside the USA?
Not finding the right partner in the U.S.?
If you’re open to exploring global options, China may surprise you—in a good way.
At TY Cosmetics, we’ve supported indie brands, salons, and global retailers. You get quality products, low MOQs, and a real team that walks with you—not around you.
Here’s how we help:
- Products: Skincare, color cosmetics, body and hair
- Capabilities: OEM, ODM, private label development
- Certifications: Export-ready with ISO, GMPC, FDA approvals
- Custom Flexibility: No fixed formula—you control the brief
- Production Speed: Faster than many Western labs
- Full Support: Guidance from sample to shipping
If you’re still searching, contact us. We’d love to learn about your goals.
Conclusion
You started this search with questions—and maybe a little frustration. I’ve been there too.
Now, you’ve got 7 U.S. manufacturers to consider. You’ve seen what they offer, where they shine, and where they may fall short.
But if none of them feel right, that’s okay. There are global options like TY Cosmetics ready to help you move forward.
You’re closer than you think.
Contact us today and let’s create something you’re proud to sell.
