Finding the right manufacturer is hard.
I learned that the hard way.
Years ago, I signed off on a sample batch that looked perfect. The packaging was clean. The texture felt high-end. But when did we test it? The formula didn’t match the quality I expected. It wasn’t even close to what NARS delivers.
That experience taught me a lesson good branding doesn’t mean good chemistry. And it pushed me to dig deeper.
Since then, I’ve worked with dozens of OEM manufacturers across Asia and Europe. I’ve learned how to spot the ones who actually match the quality of luxury brands like NARS and which ones cut corners behind the scenes.
This article shares 9 manufacturers that meet that higher standard. You’ll get company details, size, and pros and cons for each.
Whether you want to partner or just benchmark quality, you’ll walk away knowing who’s worth your time.
So let’s begin!
Quick Comparison Chart
Before diving deep into each manufacturer, here’s a side-by-side look to help you spot key strengths at a glance. This snapshot gives you a sense of who does what and where they shine.
| Manufacturer | Year Established | Location | Core Products | Customization | Global Presence |
| Shiseido Co., Ltd. | 1872 | Tokyo, Japan | Skincare, makeup, personal care | OEM, ODM | Asia, North America, Europe |
| Intercos Group | 1972 | Milan, Italy | Skincare, color cosmetics | OEM, ODM | Europe, USA, Asia |
| TY Cosmetics | 2009 | Guangzhou, China | Skincare, body care, OEM/ODM formulas | OEM, ODM, private label | Asia-Pacific with global delivery |
| Cosmax Co., Ltd. | 1992 | Seongnam, South Korea | Skincare, makeup, supplements | OEM, ODM | USA, China, Indonesia, Korea |
| Kolmar Korea Co., Ltd. | 1990 | Seoul, South Korea | Skincare, health supplements | OEM, ODM | Asia, North America |
| Ancorotti Cosmetics | 2009 | Cremona, Italy | Makeup (eye, lip, face) | OEM, ODM | Europe, North America |
| HCT Group | 1992 | Santa Monica, USA | Makeup, skincare, packaging | OEM, ODM, turnkey | Global (USA, Asia, Europe) |
| Fareva Group | 1990 | Tournon, France | Skincare, makeup, hygiene, OTC | OEM, ODM, turnkey | 40+ countries |
| Cosmecca Korea Co., Ltd. | 1999 | Eumseong-gun, S. Korea | Skincare, makeup, body care | OEM, ODM | Asia, USA |
Now, let’s explore each manufacturer in more detail so you can find the best match for your brand.
1. Shiseido Company, Limited
I once helped a client trace the origins of their favorite high-end lipstick. That led us to NARS and behind NARS, we found Shiseido.
Founded in 1872 in Tokyo, Japan, Shiseido is one of the oldest cosmetics companies in the world. With over 33,000 employees and operations in more than 120 countries, it combines Japanese skincare tradition with global innovation. Its reputation for quality and consistency is what still makes it stand out today.
Product Range
- Core Categories: Skincare, makeup, fragrance, and sun protection
- Specialized Innovations: Uses Japanese fermentation techniques and AI-powered skin diagnostics
- Best-Selling Products: NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, Shiseido Ultimune Serum
- Limited Edition Offerings: Seasonal collaborations and fashion house tie-ins
- Unique Selling Points: Consistent product texture, sleek packaging, and science-backed ingredients
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Supports large-scale global production
- Product Types: Color cosmetics, skincare, base makeup, and fragrance
- Customization Options: Primarily focused on in-house brands; limited private label
- Production Model: Mostly in-house for strict quality control
- Technology: Advanced R&D labs with skin measurement and AI formulation tools
Quality Control & Assurance
- Raw Material Sourcing: Global supplier network with ingredient traceability
- Manufacturing Standards: ISO 22716 (GMP for cosmetics) compliance
- Testing Protocols: Includes stability, clinical, and dermatological testing
- Third-Party Audits: Regular audits by certification bodies and retailers
- Customer Resolution: Dedicated system for handling product complaints and feedback
Final Verdict
Shiseido is a smart benchmark for brands aiming for high-end performance and long-term trust; however, they rarely offer direct manufacturing to small or private label clients.
2. Intercos Group
If you’ve ever used a high-end lipstick or foundation, there’s a good chance Intercos made it. I found them while helping a client launch a makeup line inspired by NARS. We needed great texture and bold pigments and Intercos delivered.
Founded in 1972 in Italy, they’ve grown into one of the biggest global contract manufacturers. With offices in more than 15 countries, they serve both indie brands and top-tier cosmetic companies worldwide.
Product Range
- Core Categories: Foundations, eyeshadows, lipsticks, skincare
- Specialized Innovations: Clean beauty, hybrid skin-makeup formulas
- Best-Selling Products: High-pigment pressed powders and liquid lipsticks
- Seasonal Offerings: Fast-turnaround trend collections
- What Stands Out: They blend trends with performance
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Scales from small runs to mass production
- Product Types: Color cosmetics, skincare, personal care
- Customization Options: Offers private label, OEM (you design), and ODM (they design)
- Production Model: Mix of in-house and external sites
- Technology: AI-driven trend prediction, advanced filling lines
Quality Control & Assurance
- Sourcing: Works with verified raw material suppliers
- Standards: Meets ISO 22716 and GMP guidelines
- Testing: Includes safety, stability, and performance testing
- Audits: Regular third-party and brand-led inspections
- Complaint Handling: Dedicated team for fast resolution
Final Verdict
Intercos is a smart pick for brands that want flexibility, innovation, and global reach. However, new clients may face longer timelines due to high demand.
3. TY Cosmetics
The first time I visited TY Cosmetics, the scent of fresh botanicals filled the air. I remember smooth creams being stirred in steel vats and rows of labeled bottles ready for brands to customize. Everything felt clean, fast-moving, and carefully done.
Founded in 2011 in Guangzhou, China, TY Cosmetics has grown into a global beauty manufacturing partner. They serve skincare brands, salons, and start-ups across Asia, Europe, and the U.S. With a focus on clean ingredients and customer-first service, they’re known for being approachable and efficient.
Product Range
- Core Categories: Skincare, body care, hair care, and makeup
- Specialized Innovations: Plant-based formulas, no-added alcohol products, multi-functional creams
- Best-Selling Products: Vitamin C serums, SPF creams, jelly cleansers
- Seasonal Offerings: Holiday gift sets and trend-based skincare launches
- What Stands Out: Fresh textures, minimal irritation, wide scent and packaging options
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Can handle both small MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities) and large-scale orders
- Product Types: Creams, lotions, serums, gels, facial masks, shampoo, and color cosmetics
- Customization Options: Full support for OEM (your formula), ODM (ready formula), and private label
- Production Model: Fully in-house with controlled sourcing and filling
- Technology: Uses semi-automated systems and keeps R&D in-house for tighter quality control
Quality Control & Assurance
- Sourcing: Ingredients sourced from certified, traceable suppliers
- Standards: GMP and ISO-certified factory
- Testing: Microbial, stability, and compatibility tests for each batch
- Audits: Passes brand and third-party inspections regularly
- Complaint Handling: Offers responsive post-order support for brand partners
Final Verdict
TY Cosmetics is well suited for start-ups and mid-sized brands that want flexibility, low MOQs, and a helpful team. They’re a solid partner for anyone wanting fast, clean beauty production with global reach.
4. Cosmax Co., Ltd.
If you’re building a beauty brand and want science behind your formulas, Cosmax should be on your list. You might have already used something they made many global skincare and makeup brands work with them behind the scenes.
Cosmax was founded in 1992 in Seongnam, South Korea. Since then, it’s expanded to the U.S., China, Indonesia, and more. You’ll find them in labs, not just factories. They focus heavily on skin science and product safety. If you care about ingredients, testing, and future-proof ideas, Cosmax brings that to the table.
Product Range
- Core Categories: Skincare, makeup, health supplements, hair care
- Specialized Innovations: Microbiome-friendly skincare, anti-pollution technology
- Best-Selling Products: Serums, cushion foundations, sheet masks
- Seasonal Offerings: K-beauty trend launches and global releases
- What Stands Out: Research-based formulas with long shelf-life stability
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Over 1.5 billion units per year across global sites
- Product Types: Serums, creams, lip products, base makeup, nutraceuticals
- Customization Options: Offers OEM (your formula) and ODM (their R&D)
- Production Model: Mostly in-house with regional labs and filling lines
- Technology: High-end automation and AI-driven ingredient testing
Quality Control & Assurance
- Sourcing: Uses raw materials backed by supplier certifications and clinical data
- Standards: GMP, ISO 9001, ISO 22716, and FDA-registered facilities
- Testing: Clinical trials, patch testing, stability, and microbiology checks
- Audits: Passes annual audits from global brand partners and third-party bodies
- Complaint Handling: Centralized client support and lab reporting
Final Verdict
Cosmax is ideal for brands that want innovation, scale, and advanced testing; however, their strict development timelines may not leave much room for last-minute changes.
5. Kolmar Korea Co., Ltd.
I remember holding a Kolmar sample in my hand and thinking, “This feels like a real brand product.” The texture, the packaging, even the scent it all felt finished.
Founded in 1990 in Seoul, South Korea, Kolmar Korea is one of the largest OEM/ODM manufacturers in Asia. They work with both indie and major brands and are known for science-based formulas. Their focus is stability, performance, and precise quality across every step.
Product Range
- Core Categories: Skincare, makeup, personal care, and health supplements
- Specialized Innovations: Probiotic skincare, low-pH cleansers, sunscreen formulas
- Best-Selling Products: Toners, sheet masks, BB creams
- Seasonal Offerings: K-beauty inspired collections
- What Stands Out: Lab-tested consistency and clean formula claims
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: High-capacity production across global plants
- Product Types: Creams, emulsions, foundations, cleansers
- Customization Options: OEM, ODM, joint formulation development
- Production Model: Fully in-house, from R&D to packaging
- Technology: Smart automation, skin simulation tools
Quality Control & Assurance
- Sourcing: Traceable ingredient suppliers with documentation
- Standards: GMP, ISO 22716, and FDA-compliant operations
- Testing: Clinical, microbial, and stress testing for stability
- Audits: Regular third-party and client audits
- Complaint Handling: Formal system for reviewing and resolving feedback
Final Verdict
Kolmar Korea is well suited for brands that need technical support and global output; however, their formal process may feel rigid for smaller or fast-moving teams.
6. Ancorotti Cosmetics
If you’re focused on color cosmetics, you’ll want to know Ancorotti. I worked with a brand that needed bold pigment and long wear . This manufacturer delivered both.
Ancorotti was founded in 2009 in Cremona, Italy. They specialize in eye, lip, and face products with a trend-forward focus. Family-owned and detail-driven, they work closely with brands across Europe and beyond. If you want style and strong visuals, this team knows how to deliver them.
Product Range
- Core Categories: Mascara, foundation, lipsticks, eyeshadows
- Specialized Innovations: Clean pigments, long-wear emulsions, hybrid textures
- Best-Selling Products: Volumizing mascaras and creamy matte lipsticks
- Seasonal Offerings: Trend kits and influencer collabs
- What Stands Out: Rich pigment and standout packaging
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Scales for mid-size and global launches
- Product Types: Powders, liquids, pencils, creams
- Customization Options: Private label, OEM, and ODM available
- Production Model: In-house from formulation to filling
- Technology: Color labs and rapid prototyping systems
Quality Control & Assurance
- Sourcing: EU-compliant ingredients from approved suppliers
- Standards: Follows ISO 22716 and European cosmetic laws
- Testing: Patch testing, stability testing, and safety checks
- Audits: Regular brand and third-party inspections
- Complaint Handling: Structured system for order issues and corrections
Final Verdict
Ancorotti is a strong choice for brands focused on trend-driven makeup and visual impact; however, their limited skincare range may not suit brands with broader product lines.
7. HCT Group
If you’re aiming to launch a beauty product that stands out on the shelf, HCT Group might be the partner you’re looking for. I once collaborated with a brand that prioritized packaging as much as the formula itself. They wanted a product that felt luxurious from the first glance. HCT delivered on that vision.
Founded in 1992 in Santa Monica, California, HCT Group offers end-to-end solutions in cosmetics packaging and formulation. They cater to both emerging and established brands, providing services from concept to final product.
Product Range
- Core Categories: Makeup, skincare, beauty tools, and packaging
- Specialized Innovations: Sustainable packaging, refill systems, airtight designs
- Best-Selling Products: Compacts, mascaras, serum pumps
- Seasonal Offerings: Holiday kits, trend capsules
- What Stands Out: Sleek packaging that elevates shelf appeal
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Suitable for both mid-sized and global brands
- Product Types: Liquid makeup, powders, creams, beauty accessories
- Customization Options: Offers OEM, ODM, and full turnkey services
- Production Model: In-house design, outsourced filling (or integrated if needed)
- Technology: Tooling labs, prototyping, and 3D printing for packaging
Quality Control & Assurance
- Sourcing: Partners with vetted packaging and raw material suppliers
- Standards: ISO 22716 and other regional certifications
- Testing: Drop tests, wear tests, pump performance, and compatibility
- Audits: Regular client audits and supplier inspections
- Complaint Handling: Support team manages post-delivery issues and updates
Final Verdict
HCT Group is a strong fit for brands that want standout packaging with product support; however, they may not suit teams that want everything manufactured under one roof.
8. Fareva Group
“Can they really do skincare, color, and hair all in one place?” That’s what I asked myself when a client brought up Fareva. We needed full-service support for multiple product types. After seeing their capabilities, I understood why they’re trusted by both big-box retailers and luxury brands.
Founded in 1990 in France, Fareva Group is one of the largest contract manufacturers in the world. They work across pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and household goods. If you want everything handled under one roof formulation, filling, packing, and even testing Fareva makes that possible.
Product Range
- Core Categories: Skincare, makeup, hair care, hygiene, and OTC products
- Specialized Innovations: Preservative-free emulsions, aerosol filling, and medical-grade cosmetics
- Best-Selling Products: Cleansers, lotions, foundations, and shampoos
- Seasonal Offerings: Limited drops for major retailers and promotional bundles
- What Stands Out: Their ability to combine pharma-grade standards with beauty product design
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Mass-scale capacity across more than 40 global sites
- Product Types: Creams, gels, liquids, sprays, powders
- Customization Options: Offers OEM, ODM, and turnkey development
- Production Model: In-house labs, filling, and packaging across multiple industries
- Technology: High-speed filling, sterile production zones, and R&D centers
Quality Control & Assurance
- Sourcing: Verified global raw material network with full documentation
- Standards: GMP, ISO 13485 (medical device), FDA-registered facilities
- Testing: Clinical, microbiological, and stability tests
- Audits: Frequently audited by major global clients and agencies
- Complaint Handling: Centralized system with full traceability
Final Verdict
Fareva is ideal for brands needing high output, strict compliance, and broad product variety; however, smaller brands may find the corporate structure harder to navigate.
9. Cosmecca Korea Co., Ltd.
We once needed a lab that could handle skincare and color cosmetics at the same time. Deadlines were tight. A partner recommended Cosmecca Korea. I wasn’t sure at first until I saw how fast their team moved from concept to samples.
Founded in 1999 in Eumseong-gun, South Korea, Cosmecca Korea has grown into a trusted OEM/ODM manufacturer. They’re known for product flexibility, trend-forward formulations, and clean production facilities across Asia and the U.S.
Product Range
- Core Categories: Skincare, makeup, personal care products.
- Specialized Innovations: Development of high-functioning new product types.
- Best-Selling Products: BB creams, foundations, serums.
- Seasonal Offerings: Limited edition collections aligned with market trends.
- What Stands Out: Integration of advanced technology in product development.
Manufacturing Capabilities
- Production Volume: Capable of handling large-scale production demands.
- Product Types: Creams, lotions, serums, makeup products.
- Customization Options: Offers OEM and ODM services tailored to client needs.
- Production Model: In-house research and development with state-of-the-art facilities.
- Technology: Utilization of advanced manufacturing systems for efficiency and quality.
Quality Control & Assurance
- Sourcing: Procurement of high-quality raw materials from trusted suppliers.
- Standards: Compliance with CGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practice) regulations.
- Testing: Rigorous quality control tests to ensure product safety and efficacy.
- Audits: Regular internal and external audits to maintain high standards.
- Complaint Handling: Structured system for addressing and resolving client feedback.
Final Verdict
Cosmecca Korea is great for brands that want trend-focused beauty with tech-driven development; however, their fast-paced pipeline may feel rushed for teams needing more back-and-forth during development.
Conclusion
I started this journey confused and overwhelmed just like you might be right now. But digging deep into these manufacturers changed everything.
You’ve now seen who they are, what they offer, and how they compare. You know what matters: product quality, communication, and long-term support.
Now’s the time to take action. Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment.
Which manufacturer feels like the right fit for your brand?
Contact us today. TY Cosmetics is here to help you take the next step.
