The cosmetics industry is required by the FDA to test all their products thoroughly before releasing the products to consumers. They cannot release any products that are dangerous to the public. This presents liabilities that present manufacturers with serious financial losses and claims that could ruin the company’s credibility.
1. Gauging the Response from the Target Audience
For all cosmetics manufacturers, it is paramount to gauge the response of the target audience, and a great way to achieve this goal is to initiate product testing and sending samples for reviews. It’s a great strategy to set up product testers according to the target demographic. By setting up an ad for specific consumers, the company gets further insight into how consumers view the product. Cosmetics manufacturers can set up makeup product testing by contacting a service provider now.
2. Determining How to Improve the Product
The findings from product testing show the manufacturer how to improve their product. The manufacturer must complete assessments to find flaws and defects that prevent the product from performing for all customers.
For example, if the product is oil-free, it shouldn’t cause breakouts and requires ingredients that control the amount of sebum on the skin without overdrying it. When testing the product, they can determine if the product performs better on different skin types.
3. Identifying Potential Reactions
By testing the cosmetics, the manufacturer identifies potential allergic reactions that customers may experience. For example, some women have allergies to ingredients in some cosmetics brands that will cause swelling of the lips or make the eyes itchy or irritated. When testing the product, the cosmetics company identifies potential reactions, and they can add these possible reactions to the product packaging.
Any findings that indicate allergic reactions must be reported on the product packaging. If the reaction happens with all testers, the company must make changes to protect consumers. However, if it only happens in 1 in 10 testers, they must provide a proper warning about the ingredients and explain what to do if the customer has a reaction. If they don’t use warning labels, the cosmetics manufacturer is liable for any injuries consumers sustain.
4. Ensuring That the Product Does What They Claim
Beta testing for effectiveness helps the cosmetics manufacturers determine if their product does what they claim. For example, if they are offering long-wearing lipstick, the product must stand up to everyday activities and remain in place. Lipstick comes off when they eat or drink anything, and testers must start with these basic activities and see if the lipstick stays in place or comes off. It must also stay in place. It shouldn’t smear all over the mouth or on the chin.
If the manufacturer claims their foundation stays in place for 24-hours, the tests must include circumstances that make foundation rub off or come off the face. The product would have to remain in place when the wearer sweats or comes in contact with the rain. If not, it doesn’t perform as the manufacturer claims.
Cosmetic manufacturers must complete product testing according to FDA regulations and avoid liabilities. Product testing is also helpful to gauge the response to the product and determine if the target audience likes the product. The tests also determine if testers are having any allergic reactions to the ingredients. These assessments protect consumers and prevent liabilities for the cosmetics manufacturers.
