Hey there! I’m an OEM supplier for mascara, and I often get asked about the breakdown of costs in mascara OEM. So, I thought I’d take the time to break it down for you in this blog post. Mascara OEM

Raw Materials
Let’s start with the raw materials. These are the building blocks of any mascara, and they can take up a significant chunk of the cost.
Wax
Waxes are a key ingredient in mascara. They give the product its texture and help it to adhere to the lashes. There are different types of waxes used in mascara, such as beeswax, carnauba wax, and candelilla wax. Beeswax is a natural option, but it can be a bit pricey. Carnauba wax is known for its hardness and high melting point, and it’s often used to give the mascara a long – lasting hold. Candelilla wax is another natural alternative that’s more affordable. On average, wax can account for about 10 – 15% of the total raw material cost.
Oils
Oils are used to keep the mascara formula smooth and easy to apply. Common oils include castor oil, jojoba oil, and mineral oil. Castor oil is a popular choice because it’s thick and can help to condition the lashes. Jojoba oil is similar to the natural sebum produced by our skin, so it’s great for sensitive eyes. Mineral oil is inexpensive and provides good lubrication. The cost of oils usually makes up around 15 – 20% of the raw material cost.
Pigments
Pigments are what give the mascara its color. Black and brown are the most popular colors, but there are also colored mascaras available. The quality of the pigments can vary a lot. High – quality, natural pigments are more expensive but may be safer for the skin. Cheaper synthetic pigments can also do the job but might have some potential side effects. Pigments typically take about 10 – 15% of the raw material cost.
Emulsifiers and Preservatives
Emulsifiers are used to mix the oil and water phases of the mascara formula, ensuring a stable and homogeneous product. Preservatives are added to prevent the growth of bacteria and extend the shelf – life of the mascara. These ingredients are usually a small part of the cost, around 5 – 10% of the raw material cost.
Manufacturing Process
Once we’ve got all the raw materials, we need to turn them into mascara. The manufacturing process also has its own set of costs.
Labor
Skilled workers are needed to operate the mixing equipment, fill the mascara tubes, and perform quality control checks. The labor cost can vary depending on the location of the manufacturing facility. In countries with lower labor costs, this can be a significant advantage. On average, labor may account for about 20 – 30% of the total manufacturing cost.
Equipment and Machinery
We need specialized equipment to mix the raw materials, heat them to the right temperature, and package the final product. The cost of purchasing and maintaining this equipment is a big factor. High – end equipment can produce better – quality mascara, but it also comes with a higher price tag. Equipment costs can be around 15 – 20% of the manufacturing cost.
Overhead
This includes things like rent for the manufacturing facility, utilities, and administrative expenses. Overhead costs usually make up about 10 – 15% of the manufacturing cost.
Packaging
The packaging is what the customer first sees, and it can have a big impact on the product’s perceived value.
Tubes and Wands
The tube is where the mascara is stored, and the wand is used to apply it to the lashes. The design and quality of the tubes and wands can vary a lot. A simple plastic tube with a basic wand will be cheaper than a glass tube with a fancy, custom – designed wand. The cost of tubes and wands can be around 20 – 30% of the total packaging cost.
Labels and Boxes
Labels provide important information about the product, such as the brand name, ingredients, and usage instructions. Boxes can add an extra layer of protection and branding. The cost of printing labels and manufacturing boxes depends on the size, design complexity, and the materials used. Labels and boxes usually account for about 30 – 40% of the packaging cost.
Quality Control and Testing
We can’t just send out mascara without making sure it’s safe and effective. Quality control and testing are essential steps in the process, and they also add to the cost.
In – house Testing
We conduct various tests in – house, such as checking the viscosity of the mascara, its drying time, and its ability to hold the curl of the lashes. This requires specialized equipment and trained personnel. In – house testing can cost around 5 – 10% of the total production cost.
Third – party Testing
Sometimes, we also send our products to third – party laboratories for more comprehensive testing, such as safety and allergy testing. This can be more expensive but is often necessary to meet regulatory requirements. Third – party testing can account for about 3 – 5% of the total production cost.
Shipping and Logistics
Once the mascara is ready, it needs to be shipped to the customer. Shipping and logistics costs can vary depending on the destination, the quantity of the order, and the shipping method.
Domestic Shipping
If the customer is located within the same country, the shipping cost is usually lower. We can choose from different shipping options, such as ground shipping or air shipping. Ground shipping is cheaper but takes longer, while air shipping is faster but more expensive. Domestic shipping can cost around 5 – 10% of the total order value.
International Shipping
For international orders, the shipping cost is higher due to factors like customs duties and longer distances. We need to consider the shipping method, insurance, and any additional fees. International shipping can account for about 10 – 15% of the total order value.
Marketing and Branding
Even though we’re an OEM supplier, marketing and branding still play a role. We need to promote our services to attract new customers.
Trade Shows
Participating in trade shows is a great way to showcase our products and meet potential customers. The cost of booth rental, travel, and promotional materials can be significant. Trade shows can cost around 5 – 10% of our marketing budget.
Online Marketing
We also use online channels, such as social media and our website, to promote our services. This includes things like content creation, paid advertising, and search engine optimization. Online marketing can account for about 30 – 40% of our marketing budget.
Overall Cost Breakdown

To sum it up, the raw materials might make up around 30 – 40% of the total cost, the manufacturing process around 20 – 30%, packaging around 15 – 25%, quality control and testing around 5 – 10%, shipping and logistics around 5 – 15%, and marketing and branding around 5 – 10%.
Lip Oil If you’re interested in getting into the mascara business or looking for a reliable OEM supplier, don’t hesitate to reach out for a detailed quote and to discuss your specific requirements. We can work together to create a mascara product that meets your needs and budget.
References
- Cosmetics Science and Technology, Third Edition, edited by Philippe Barel, Harry I. Maibach
- Handbook of Cosmetic Science and Technology, Fourth Edition, by Anthony O’Lenick, Jr.
Guangzhou Evetin International Biotechnology Co., Ltd.
Guangzhou Evetin International Biotechnology Co., Ltd. is one of the most professional mascara oem manufacturers and suppliers in China, featured by quality products and competitive price. Welcome to wholesale OEM mascara oem made in China here from our factory. Contact us for free sample.
Address: Building 33, 8 Yinbianlianxingheng Road, Helong Street, Baiyun District, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China
E-mail: Ada@evetincosmetics.com
WebSite: https://www.evetincosmetics.com/