Skincare Founders Are Moving Manufacturing to the U.S. Here’s Why

If you’re currently producing your skincare line in China, the latest U.S. trade policy changes may be forcing a decision. With proposed tariffs on Chinese-made goods reaching up to 500%, brands of all sizes are reconsidering their supply chain strategy.

At Vaulabs, we’ve been hearing from a growing number of clean beauty founders who are ready to move manufacturing to the United States, not just for peace of mind, but to future-proof their margins, protect their compliance, and deliver on growing consumer trust in U.S.-made products.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering making the switch.

Why Skincare Brands Are Moving Production Out of China

1. Cost Volatility and Rising Tariffs

Chinese manufacturing has long been attractive due to low labor costs, but that advantage disappears quickly under new trade tariffs. With up to 500% in proposed duties, importing finished skincare or cosmetic products from China could immediately wipe out your profit margin.

U.S.-based production gives you pricing stability and protection from geopolitical shifts. It also means no container delays, freight surcharges, or surprise customs issues.

2. Compliance Risk Under New Regulations

The introduction of MOCRA (Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act) has changed what’s required to sell skincare in the U.S., especially for clean beauty brands. Many overseas labs are not equipped to meet these new standards or provide the required documentation:

• Verified ingredient disclosures

• pH testing and stability testing

• COAs (Certificates of Analysis) for finished product

• Allergen, preservative, and microbial safety testing

• Amazon, EU, and Middle East regulatory compliance

At Vaulabs, we build regulatory support into every product we develop — so you don’t just launch quickly, you launch correctly.

3. Communication Delays and Project Risk

Manufacturing overseas often means 12+ hour time differences, inconsistent updates, and language barriers — all of which can delay your launch or compromise your quality. In a category where consumer trust is everything, that’s a risk most clean beauty brands can’t afford.

When you work with Vaulabs, you’re in direct contact with our in-house formulation and operations team in Florida. We provide proactive communication, transparent timelines, and U.S.-based customer service.

What to Expect When You Move Manufacturing to the U.S.

Switching to a U.S. partner isn’t just about risk reduction. For many brands, it also unlocks:

• Smaller minimums: At Vaulabs, you can start with as little as 2,500 units per SKU

• Better quality control: In-house formulation, batch testing, and hands-on production oversight

• Faster lead times: Eliminate long overseas freight timelines

• Support for scale: Systems that grow with your brand and reduce costly reformulation later

• Clean beauty expertise: We specialize in high-performance, pH-balanced, non-toxic formulations that meet modern consumer and retailer expectations

Can We Match or Improve Your Existing Formula?

Yes. Many of our clients come to us with existing formulas they developed in China — and we help them recreate or enhance the product for U.S. production. This may include:

• Improving shelf life or packaging compatibility

• Updating actives for regulatory compliance

• Creating a smoother skin-feel or improved sensory profile

• Reducing separation or oxidation issues

• Ensuring stability across various climates and fulfillment conditions

We also offer custom formulation if you’re ready to move beyond copy-paste development and create a standout product built for long-term success.

How to Start Your Transition

Here’s what to have ready when reaching out:

• Your current formula or an ingredient list

• Packaging type and volume

• Estimated order quantity

• Target launch date or delivery window

• Budget expectations, if available

We’ll provide a quote, estimated timeline, and help you map out next steps. If needed, we can also discuss replication vs. reformulation strategies.

Ready to Switch?

If you’re a clean beauty brand founder currently manufacturing in China or anywhere overseas - now is the time to rethink your supply chain. With tariffs rising, compliance requirements tightening, and customer expectations evolving, moving to a U.S.-based clean beauty lab is more than a smart decision. It’s a strategic investment in the future of your brand.

Vaulabs is ready to support you.

Request a quote: www.vaulabs.com

Email: info@vaulabs.com

Located in Clearwater, Florida.

Serving brands across the U.S., Canada, and internationally.