Makeup giant L’Oréal and InStyle magazine both named lip gloss as a makeup trend for 2020, so it makes sense that it might be a great idea for a new business. In 2019, sales for lip gloss totaled approximately $126.54 million! That’s a lot of lip gloss!

Just like starting any business, before getting started, research the market, learn about the lip gloss manufacturing process and get to know your future customers. Like any business, it’s important to begin with a plan and make decisions about how you will price your products, what suppliers you will use, how you will promote your business and what kind of license or permits you need. You may also want to find a mentor or advisor who can help you think through the next steps and keep you accountable.

Getting Started

A lip gloss business can be done in a few different ways. You can create your own brand or sell popular brands. Each option has different requirements. 

Starting your own lip gloss line is the most challenging and the most rewarding option. You can start from scratch or work with a private label lip gloss supplier. 

Starting from Scratch

There are many different lip gloss formulas to try, from basics to fancy glitter and metallic formulas. There are hundreds, if not millions, available online. It’s probably a good idea to experiment before you start selling your product.

Lip Gloss Starting Kits

Most vendors have starting kits to fit just about every budget. They usually include a few hundred units of private label lip gloss, ingredient stickers and tubes in different sizes. Some also come with a logo and box design that you can customize. Basic kits cost about $1,000. Genie Supply, Audrey Morris Cosmetic and Your Name Pro are just a few to check out.

Requirements for Starting a Lip Gloss Business

Legal requirements will depend on your location and type of business. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates cosmetics, so if you’re making your lip gloss from scratch, you need to be sure your products are safe and live up to their claims. 

This includes making sure your labeling and packaging is honest. All color additives used in your products need to be approved for the intended use. You’re not required to test your products and ingredients, but you still need to make sure they’re safe. For example, if you’re planning to start an organic lip gloss business, you should check the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) requirements. Any products that fall into this category must follow both FDA regulations for safety and USDA laws for the organic claim. You cannot use the term “organic” unless at least 95 percent of the ingredients you use in your lip gloss are organic. 

If you sell private label lip gloss or existing brands produced in the U.S., those products should have already been approved by the FDA. 

Register Your Business

Decide how you want to register your business. Popular options include a limited liability company (LLC), a partnership or sole proprietorship. You could start with an LLC and change it to an “S” business enterprise or a “C” company later. That way, you can compete with big industry brands and grow your production.

Next, get a trade name certificate. If you’re going to create your own lip gloss line, contact the FDA to find out what licenses you need. Whether you sell online or in a store, a business permit may be necessary depending on the laws in your state. You also need to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) if you hire employees. Even if you don’t hire employees, it may make sense to get an EIN. It’s free and easy to get online through the IRS. If you operate your business from a store, you will also need to get property and liability insurance. 

Make a Business Plan and Promote Your Business

Your business plan and marketing strategy will be based on how you decide to sell your products. 

Online 

Your costs will probably be lower if you sell your product online exclusively. Set up a professional-looking website that is easy to navigate. There are lots of inexpensive programs that are easy to use, such as Wix, Shopify and Squarespace. Write simple, but engaging descriptions of your lip gloss and show high-resolution photos of your products. If you can afford it, take photos of a model to wear your lip gloss. Set up social media accounts and post on them to start building a following. Make sure to link mentions on your social media accounts back to your website.  

Storefront

If you decide to open a store, think about the set-up costs, such as displays and decor, as well as rent and utilities. You will need to focus on ways to advertise your business. Even if you open a brick-and-mortar store, it’s a good idea to have a website and promote your product on social media. Consider getting involved with the local community and business organizations, and work with other nearby businesses to promote your product.

One of the best things you can do to help start or grow your own lip gloss business is Sign up at Skysthelimit to get access to business mentors, tools and other support you need.