How to Switch from China to U.S. Skincare Manufacturing Without Losing Momentum
If you’re producing skincare in China, 2025 might be your most expensive year yet.
With proposed tariffs on Chinese-made cosmetics reaching up to 500%, many beauty founders are rethinking their entire supply chain.
At Vaulabs, we’re seeing a surge in brands seeking to move production to the U.S.
Not just to save money, but to ensure compliance, protect quality, and future-proof their businesses for what’s coming next.
If you’re considering the switch, here’s how to make it smooth and launch successfully in 2026.
Why More Founders Are Leaving Chinese Manufacturing
For years, China was the go-to for low-cost beauty production. But in today’s market, the downsides are harder to ignore:
Tariff risk: Proposed U.S. duties up to 500% could erase your margins overnight
Regulatory gap: Overseas labs often lack required MoCRA, Amazon, and EU documentation
Unpredictable delays: Freight costs, customs issues, and time zone lags can kill momentum
Consumer trust: Shoppers increasingly want skincare that’s made in the U.S.
In short - it’s no longer just about cost. It’s about control, compliance, and credibility.
What You Need to Get Started
You don’t need to reinvent the wheel to move production to the U.S.
Here’s what we recommend preparing:
Your current formula or ingredient list (if available)
Packaging details — type, volume, and design notes
Minimum order quantity — we start at just 2,500 units per SKU
Target launch window
Budget range (optional, but helpful)
Whether you’re replicating an existing formula or upgrading it for compliance and performance, our team will guide you step-by-step.
What a U.S. Manufacturing Timeline Looks Like
At Vaulabs, our average timeline from concept to production is around 4 months:
R&D phase: 2–3 weeks per formula
Packaging & approvals: parallel to R&D
Full production: typically completed in 10-12 weeks after formula approval
That means if you start now, you can be in-market by early 2026 without rushing or compromising on quality.
Why Clean Beauty Brands Trust Vaulabs
We’re not just a manufacturer - we’re your product development partner.
Clean beauty founders choose us because we provide:
Low minimums (starting at 2,500 units)
Deep expertise in MoCRA, EU, and Amazon compliance
In-house formulation, batch testing, and QC in Florida
Fast, clear communication with our team - no time zone delays
A lab built around clean, non-toxic, pH-balanced skincare
We help you transition away from overseas production with clarity, speed, and full support.
The Bottom Line
If you’re still manufacturing in China, this is your moment to pivot.
With rising tariffs, evolving regulations, and shifting consumer expectations, U.S. manufacturing isn’t just safer - it’s smarter.
At Vaulabs, we make the transition seamless, and we help you build products ready for long-term success.
📩 Request a quote or email us at info@vaulabs.com
📍 Based in Florida, serving brands across the U.S., Canada, and internationally.