Plumping Power Lip Gloss

Root Cause

Poor fit between tube, wiper, and cap; low-quality materials that crack or warp.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Require leak-proof testing (e.g., vacuum chamber test for 5 mins). Specify component materials (e.g., PETG tube, PP cap) and request technical drawings with tolerances.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Invert 50 samples and leave on paper for 24 hours. Squeeze tubes moderately. Check for any oil rings or product seepage.

Root Cause

Formula relies on irritants (e.g., capsaicin, high levels of menthol) for plumping effect.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Specify 'sting-free' plumping mechanism (e.g., peptides, hyaluronic acid). Request full INCI list and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the formula.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Conduct user panel testing with at least 5-10 individuals to evaluate comfort level over 30 minutes. Check for redness or excessive irritation.

Root Cause

Lack of a master color standard; poor batch-to-batch pigment dispersion and QC.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Provide a physical master standard for each shade. Define acceptable variance using a spectrophotometer (e.g., Delta E < 2.0) or visual approval under a D65 light box.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Draw down production sample next to the approved master standard on white paper. Compare color under consistent lighting (ideally a light box).

Root Cause

Poor formulation; incorrect ratio of film formers, oils, and polymers.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Provide an approved benchmark sample for texture. Use descriptive terms: 'non-sticky,' 'lightweight,' 'cushiony,' 'smooth glide.'

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Apply a swipe to the back of the hand. Press lips together. It should feel smooth, not tacky or stringy. Check for separation in the tube.

Root Cause

Low-quality raw materials; no or unstable fragrance used to mask base odors.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Specify desired scent profile (e.g., 'vanilla bean,' 'peach') and require it to be stable for the product's shelf life. Request an unscented version if sensitive.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Smell the product directly from the applicator upon opening. The scent should match the approved sample and be pleasant, not 'plastic-like' or 'chemical'.

Root Cause

Incorrect machine calibration during filling; using oversized packaging for a small fill volume.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Specify the exact fill volume in ml (e.g., 5ml) with a tolerance (e.g., ± 0.2ml).

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Weigh a statistically significant number of finished units and empty components to verify the net weight of the formula. Compare against the specified volume.

Root Cause

Production in a non-GMP environment; ineffective preservative system.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Require supplier to provide proof of GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) or ISO 22716 certification. Request Preservative Efficacy Test (PET) results.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Send random samples from the production batch to a 3rd-party lab for microbial testing (Total Viable Count, Yeast & Mold, Pathogen screening).

Root Cause

Poor ink adhesion; incorrect printing setup; abrasion during transit.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Provide artwork files and specify decoration method (e.g., silk screen, hot stamp). Specify Pantone colors for the print.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Perform a 'scratch test' with a fingernail or 'tape test' by applying and removing adhesive tape. The print should not flake or peel off.