Understanding Skin Types & How They Influence Formulation

Each skin type has unique needs, requiring different ingredients and formulation bases.

Common Skin Types & Best Ingredients:

• Oily Skin: Lightweight formulas, niacinamide, salicylic acid, zinc PCA
• Dry Skin: Rich, hydrating formulations, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerin
• Sensitive Skin: Gentle, fragrance-free products, panthenol, aloe vera, chamomile extract
• Combination Skin: Balanced formulas, beta-glucans, peptides, green tea extract
• Mature Skin: Anti-ageing ingredients, retinol, collagen peptides, antioxidants

💡 Tip: Choose a formula that targets specific skin concerns (e.g., acne, hyperpigmentation, ageing) to make your brand stand out.

2. Private Label vs. Custom Formulations: Which One to Choose?

Before developing your product, decide whether to use a private label formula or create a fully bespoke formulation.

Option 1: Private Label Skincare (Faster to Market)

✅ Ready-made, proven formulations
✅ Lower cost & faster production
✅ Custom branding & packaging

Best for: Startups, new brands, and companies looking for quick product launches

Option 2: Custom Formulation (Unique & Exclusive Products)

✅ Tailored to your brand’s vision
✅ Full control over ingredients & claims
✅ Longer development time but offers differentiation

Best for: Established brands, premium beauty businesses, and niche skincare products

💡 How SKD Pharmaceuticals® Can Help:
We provide both private label skincare and custom formulation services, guiding you through the best option based on your business needs.

3. Key Ingredients & Their Functions in Skincare Formulations

Moisturisers & Hydration Boosters

• Hyaluronic Acid – Retains moisture, plumps the skin
• Ceramides – Strengthens the skin barrier
• Squalane – Lightweight hydration

Anti-Ageing Actives

• Retinol (Vitamin A) – Stimulates collagen, reduces wrinkles
• Peptides – Improves skin elasticity
• Vitamin C – Brightens and fights free radicals

Acne-Fighting & Oil-Control Ingredients

• Salicylic Acid (BHA) – Exfoliates and unclogs pores
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) – Balances oil production
• Tea Tree Oil – Antibacterial and soothing

Brightening & Hyperpigmentation Treatments

• Kojic Acid & Alpha-Arbutin – Reduces dark spots
• Azelaic Acid – Evens skin tone and reduces inflammation
• Licorice Extract – Gentle brightening agent

💡 How SKD Pharmaceuticals® Can Help:
Our cosmetic scientists and formulators can recommend the best ingredient combinations based on your target audience and product goals.

4. Choosing the Right Skincare Product Type

The product format is just as important as the ingredients.

Common Skincare Product Formats:

• Creams & Lotions – Rich hydration (best for dry/mature skin)
• Gels & Serums – Lightweight, high-absorption (great for oily/acne-prone skin)
• Facial Oils – Nourishing but may not suit oily skin
• Cleansers – Foaming (for oily skin), Cream-based (for dry skin), Micellar (for sensitive skin)
• Sheet Masks & Treatments – Targeted skincare with intense benefits

💡 Tip: Choose a format that matches your brand’s target audience and pricing strategy.

5. Understanding Preservatives & Stability Testing

To ensure your skincare products remain safe and effective, proper preservation and stability testing are crucial.

Preservatives in Skincare:

• Phenoxyethanol: Common synthetic preservative
• Sodium Benzoate & Potassium Sorbate: Natural preservatives
• Paraben-Free Options: Used for clean beauty formulations

Stability Testing Includes:

• pH balance assessment
• Microbial contamination checks
• Shelf-life determination
• Texture, colour, and scent stability

💡 How SKD Pharmaceuticals® Can Help:
We conduct comprehensive stability testing and preservative optimisation to ensure your product remains safe for consumers.

6. The Role of Packaging in Skincare Formulations

Packaging is more than just aesthetics—it affects product stability, application, and customer experience.

Packaging Considerations:

• Airless Pumps: Prevents oxidation of sensitive ingredients
• Glass vs. Plastic: Eco-friendly glass or recyclable plastic?
• UV-Protected Bottles: Essential for light-sensitive ingredients (e.g., Vitamin C)

💡 How SKD Pharmaceuticals® Can Help:
We offer custom packaging solutions that protect your formulations while enhancing your brand’s image.

Final Thoughts: Let’s Create Your Perfect Skincare Formula!

Choosing the right skincare formula involves a deep understanding of skin types, ingredients, product formats, and stability requirements. Whether you need private label solutions or custom formulations, partnering with a trusted manufacturer like SKD Pharmaceuticals® ensures that your products meet high standards of quality and compliance.

👉 Contact us today to start developing your ideal skincare product!