MicroMentor

Vince Forcier

Kansas City, MO, United States

Skin care? I do not have extensive experience but I will tell you what I do know.

First, formulary. Do you own the formula? If your start-up costs are minimal - you don't own the formula. The formula and its ownership is critical for long-term success.

Next, testing. FDA? Who is responsible for testing the formula with the government/FDA?

Next, new product implementation. Skin care has great profit margins - for the existing companies and they fight to protect it. You are competing against companies that specialize in this market segment. What is your marketing strategy? Guerrila? Internet-only? Wholesale? How will you get your product out in front of the public? How will you ensure repeat customers? Have your lawyers reviewed your marketing materials? Will you sell wholesale only? What is your market niche? How will you reach them? What is your strategy?

Next, ongoing operations. Who/what handles your order fulfillment? AP? Customer service? Returns? Complaints?

I encourage you to succeed. However, understand various issues for B2C companies. Good luck.

Vince

Posted on 05/09/10

Pauline Soeffing

Buffalo, NY, United States

You do not say whether or not you will be using your own formulas, and I do not belive that it is necessary to do so.

An alternative that you may or may not have considered is to use "private label" manufacturers. Do a Google search on "private label skin care products" and you will locate many companies that will do all the packaging, labeling, etc and ship the product directly to you.

Your success in this business will be to identify your distribution channels and create a strong marketing plan.

Good luck!

Posted on 06/05/10