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Sourcing Playbook
Body & Recovery Care

Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens

Complete sourcing guide for Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens including supplier directory, FOB pricing, product specifications, and market validation.

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FOB Price Range

$4.96 - $19.84

Verified Suppliers

5

Sourcing Strategies

2

Product Preview

AI-generated product visualizations for Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens

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Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens product 1
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Sourcing Playbook: Wholesale Sourcing Overview for Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens

A quick preview of supplier standards, production requirements, and sourcing intelligence from our verified network.

High-density nylon or PU faux leather with reinforced bar-tack stitching
Low-VOC materials, factory airs out products 48 hours before packing
Smooth vegan PU with durable, non-fading finish
Value: 500–1,000 pcs/style, $4.96-$7.79 FOB, 25–35 days
Premium: 200–500 pcs/style, $11.02-$19.84 FOB, 30–45 days
Custom labels/prints may add 7–14 days
Verify label + packaging compliance before ordering
Compare pre-production samples to references
Consider 3rd-party inspection for first-time suppliers

Factory Intelligence

Verified suppliers with years of experience and quality strengths

5 suppliers foundAvg. Response: 1%Avg. Years: 0+
SupplierImagesTierYearsResponseFavoritesKey StrengthsProduct ExpertiseShop RatingsContact
Guangzhou Jiali Ya Biotechnology Co., Ltd.
Guangdong Guangzhou Baiyun District Jiahe Wanggang Er Ma Lu Huihe Tiandi 203
Tier 45+0.69%8.6k
Good QualityLow ReturnsGood DisputeGood Service
Face CreamSheet MaskHand Cream
Quality
4.0
Returns
4.0
Logistics
3.4
Consult
2.5
Dispute
4.0
Overall
4.0
View contact
Guangzhou Qingchen Cosmetics Co., Ltd.
Guangdong Guangzhou Baiyun District Zhongluotan Town Guangcong Wu Lu Hexin Commercial Building 302
Tier 45+0.65%526
Excellent QualityGood DisputeGood Service
ShampooBody WashConditioner
Quality
5.0
Returns
3.0
Logistics
3.7
Consult
3.0
Dispute
5.0
Overall
4.0
View contact
Guangzhou Meihao Biotechnology Co., Ltd.
Guangdong Guangzhou Baiyun District Junhe Street Wangfa Street Self-numbered No. 20
Tier 45+0.76%967
Good DisputeGood Service
Other Beauty ToolsOther Body CareBody Care Set
Quality
3.7
Returns
2.7
Logistics
3.4
Consult
3.0
Dispute
4.0
Overall
4.0
View contact
Guangzhou Yuqi Cosmetics Co., Ltd.
Guangdong Guangzhou Baiyun District Liangsha Er Lu No. 671 Room 201
Tier 45+0.88%21.7k
Low ReturnsGood DisputeGood Service
Sunscreen/SprayHand CreamFace Cream
Quality
2.7
Returns
4.0
Logistics
3.6
Consult
4.0
Dispute
4.0
Overall
4.5
View contact
Guangzhou Yimei Cosmetics Technology Co., Ltd.
Guangdong Guangzhou Xialiang Lu No. 344
Tier 45+0.51%3.8k
Low ReturnsGood DisputeGood Service
Sunscreen/SprayCleansing ProductsFace Cream
Quality
3.7
Returns
4.3
Logistics
3.6
Consult
4.5
Dispute
5.0
Overall
4.5
View contact

Supplier Intelligence for Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens

0 verified suppliers across 7 manufacturing hubs

Clusters7
Suppliers0
Super Factories0

Average Ratings Across All Suppliers

0.0

Quality

0.0

Logistics

0.0

Returns

0.0

Disputes

0.0

Support

0.0

Overall

Regional Price Comparison

FOB pricing by manufacturing cluster, compare costs across regions

RegionSuppliersMin FOBAvg FOBMax FOB
Guangzhou, Guangdong11¥0¥5¥30
Shantou, Guangdong6¥0¥2¥6
Foshan, Guangdong4¥0¥1¥1
Yunfu, Guangdong2¥0¥2¥5
Jinhua, Zhejiang1¥2¥2¥2
Linyi, Shandong1¥1¥1¥1

Cluster Intelligence

Guangdong province is the core manufacturing hub for lightweight serum and gel sunscreens, with Guangzhou, Shantou, and Foshan leading in supplier concentration. Guangzhou, known as China's 'Cosmetics Capital,' provides extensive OEM/ODM capabilities for custom formulations, while Zhejiang's Jinhua (Yiwu) serves as a major wholesale and distribution center.

Guangdong, Guangzhou

Best For: Custom formulations, private label manufacturing, and developing innovative serum and gel sunscreens with access to a wide range of quality and packaging options.

Why Strong: As China's 'Cosmetics Capital,' Guangzhou has the highest concentration of suppliers and a mature ecosystem for OEM/ODM services. The wide price variation indicated in data suggests capabilities rangi...

⚠️ The large number of suppliers requires careful vetting. MOQs and development costs can be higher for more advanced or custom projects compared to stan...

Guangdong, Shantou

Best For: Sourcing mass-market serum and gel sunscreens where competitive pricing is a primary concern. Ideal for high-volume orders of standard formulas.

Why Strong: This cluster offers a significant number of suppliers with a focus on cost-effective production, as suggested by its competitive average price point. It benefits from the broader Guangdong cosmetics s...

⚠️ May offer fewer options for cutting-edge ingredients or premium, innovative formulations compared to Guangzhou. Emphasis is on volume and cost efficie...

Guangdong, Foshan

Best For: Buyers prioritizing budget and scale for entry-level or promotional lightweight sunscreens. Best suited for large-volume procurement of standardized products.

Why Strong: Located within the dominant Guangdong manufacturing belt, Foshan stands out for its highly competitive pricing. This indicates a specialization in high-volume, low-cost production for basic sunscreen ...

⚠️ Product and packaging options are likely to be basic. Less focus on R&D and customization; suppliers are geared towards production efficiency.

Verified Suppliers

Top-tier verified manufacturers with quality ratings and capabilities

CompanyTierYearsQualityLogistics
Guangzhou Jiali Ya Biotechnolo...TIER 40+4.03.4
Guangzhou Qingchen Cosmetics C...TIER 40+5.03.7
Guangzhou Meihao Biotechnology...TIER 40+3.73.4
Guangzhou Yuqi Cosmetics Co., ...TIER 40+2.73.6
Guangzhou Yimei Cosmetics Tech...TIER 40+3.73.6
Supplier
Yrs
Rating
Actions

Tip: Click on a supplier row to see detailed ratings breakdown. Ratings above 4.0 indicate reliable suppliers.

Pricing levers and strategies to cut down production cost for Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens

The final cost of a sunscreen is primarily driven by the formula's complexity (UV filters and active ingredients), the choice of packaging, and the order volume, which amortizes significant fixed regulatory costs. The fastest and most cost-effective route to market is leveraging a supplier's existing, compliant stock formula and packaging.

Confidence: High
Pricing LeverCost ImpactQuality RiskMOQ ImpactLead TimeNotes
Use supplier's stock formula vs. custom↓ HighLow↓ Medium↓ HighEliminates R&D, stability, and SPF testing costs. Fastest path to market.
Switch from airless pump to squeeze tube↓ HighMedium↓ Low↓ MediumReduces premium feel and protection for oxygen-sensitive ingredients like Vitamin C.
Simplify skincare actives (e.g., Glycerin vs. Multi-Molecular HA)↓ Medium–HighMedium- None- NoneReduces formula cost but weakens 'skincare-first' marketing claims and perceived efficacy.
Increase MOQ (e.g., from 1k to 5k+ units)↓ MediumLow↑ High- NoneAmortizes fixed costs (testing, setup) and unlocks better pricing on raw materials and packaging.
Use standard UV filters vs. premium/newer ones↓ MediumHigh- None- NoneCan negatively impact cosmetic elegance (texture, finish) and may not achieve highest PA++++ rating.
Forgo optional clinical tests (e.g., 'No-Sting Eye' test)↓ Low–MediumHigh- None↓ LowSaves on testing fees but prevents using a powerful marketing claim and risks major customer complaints.

Key Takeaways

  • Formula cost is dictated by the type/combination of UV filters and the percentage of premium skincare actives.
  • Packaging is a major cost variable; an airless pump can cost 3-5x more than a standard squeeze tube.
  • Regulatory testing (SPF, Stability) is a large fixed cost, making higher MOQs more cost-effective per unit.
  • Using a supplier's pre-tested stock formula eliminates R&D, stability, and primary SPF testing costs and time.

Ready to create your perfect sunscreen? Submit your project brief and we'll connect you with TGA-compliant manufacturers who can match your formula and budget goals.

Sunscreen quality risks and defects to look out for

The biggest quality risks for sunscreens are formula-related. Key issues include eye irritation, poor texture (pilling, greasiness, white cast), and instability (separation). These directly impact user experience and can lead to significant negative reviews and product failure.

Confidence: High

Eye Stinging / Irritation

Root Cause

Use of certain UV filters (e.g., Avobenzone, Octocrylene), fragrance, or other irritants. Formula not pH-balanced for the eye area.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Require a 'no-sting' or 'eye-safe' formulation. Ask for supporting data or ophthalmologist testing reports for the base formula.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

User testing of pre-production samples is essential. Check for any stinging sensation. This cannot be checked on a production line.

Pilling Under Makeup

Root Cause

High concentration of certain film-forming polymers or silicones that are incompatible with makeup ingredients.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Specify 'anti-pill' or 'makeup-friendly primer base' as a key performance requirement. Provide a benchmark product for comparison.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Apply sample, let dry, then rub the area to check for flakes. Test compatibility by applying a standard liquid foundation over it.

Greasy Feel or White Cast

Root Cause

Choice of UV filters (mineral filters cause white cast; some chemical filters are oily). High oil phase percentage or poor emulsifier choice.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Specify 'invisible finish', 'zero white cast', and 'fast absorption' as critical sensory attributes. Provide a benchmark product.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Apply a standardized amount on the forearm. Evaluate absorption time, residue, and color against the approved pre-production sample.

Formula Separation / Instability

Root Cause

Poor emulsion stability; incorrect manufacturing process (mixing speed/temp); ingredient incompatibility.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Require a passing 3-month accelerated stability test report (e.g., at 45°C). Specify acceptable viscosity range (e.g., 5000-8000 cps).

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Visually check batch samples for separation (oil/water layers). Check viscosity against the approved standard. Keep retain samples to monitor.

Failure to Meet SPF/PA Rating

Root Cause

Incorrect percentage of UV filters; poor dispersion of filters in the formula; degradation over time.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Require a valid, recent SPF test report (in-vivo) for the exact formula. Require a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for each batch confirming active levels.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

This requires lab testing. The best check is to review the supplier's documentation. For large orders, send a production sample for third-party verification.

Incorrect Tint Color / Oxidation

Root Cause

Poor pigment dispersion; batch-to-batch variation in pigments; unstable formula causing pigments to oxidize on skin.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Provide a physical color standard. Specify color tolerance using L*a*b* values if possible.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Drawdown test: apply the batch sample next to the approved standard on a white card. Compare color under a standardized light source (D65).

Microbial Contamination

Root Cause

Inadequate preservative system; contamination during manufacturing or filling.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Require a passing Preservative Efficacy Test (PET) report for the formula and a micro-test report (CoA) for each production batch.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Cannot be checked visually. Relies on reviewing the supplier's batch-specific micro report (Total Viable Count, Yeast & Mold, etc.).

Packaging Leakage or Pump Failure

Root Cause

Poor compatibility between formula and packaging material; defective components (seals, pumps).

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Specify that packaging must pass compatibility and function testing with the final formula.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Cycle test pumps (e.g., 20 pumps). Store filled samples upside down for 24 hours to check for leaks.

Don't leave quality to chance. We help you build a robust QC plan and connect you with manufacturers who have proven track records in TGA-compliant sunscreen production.

Ready to Start Sourcing?

Use this data to create your product specifications, reach out to suppliers, and validate your pricing strategy. Start with small sample orders to test quality.

Product Examples from 1688

Real product samples with pricing, MOQ, and supplier ratings

ProductTitleMOQPrice (CNY)Price (USD)
Sale QuantityHow many units sold
OrdersHow many orders in Alibaba/1688
RatingTiered PricingKey FeaturesLinkAction
Fuchiting Niacinamide Gel Arbutin Brightens Skin, Moisturizes, Diminishes Acne Marks, Spots and Dark Yellow Cream

Fuchiting Niacinamide Gel Arbutin Brightens Skin, Moisturizes, Diminishes Acne Marks, Spots and Dark Yellow Cream

¥1.3$0.22100,00090,9022.3
  • N/A
Fuchiting (beauty)NoGeneral
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Nha Curacao Aloe Vera Gel Soothing Repair Hydrating Moisturizing Lightening Acne Marks Aloe Vera Gel Large Bottle Skin Care Products Wholesale

Nha Curacao Aloe Vera Gel Soothing Repair Hydrating Moisturizing Lightening Acne Marks Aloe Vera Gel Large Bottle Skin Care Products Wholesale

¥7.13$1.20100,0007,2065.0
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NHANo1Ms.
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377 Whitening Sunscreen for Men and Women, Facial Sunscreen, Small Yellow Hat Sunscreen, Sunscreen Spray Sunscreen, Best-Selling List

377 Whitening Sunscreen for Men and Women, Facial Sunscreen, Small Yellow Hat Sunscreen, Sunscreen Spray Sunscreen, Best-Selling List

1¥2.98$0.5091,7776,4403.7
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Genuine Products Whitening Sunscreen SPF50 UV Protection Sunscreen Spray Concealer Body Sunscreen

Genuine Products Whitening Sunscreen SPF50 UV Protection Sunscreen Spray Concealer Body Sunscreen

2¥2.56$0.4363,3385,6003.7
  • N/A
Beautiful lan shiNo1Authentic Whitening Sunscreen 1
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Aloe vera gel 300g moisturizing essence gel after sun moisturizing cream aloe vera gel wholesale dropshipping

Aloe vera gel 300g moisturizing essence gel after sun moisturizing cream aloe vera gel wholesale dropshipping

¥1.6$0.27100,00040,5763.0
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Seomou/schitomoNoAloe Vera Gel
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Curaçao Aloe Vera Gel Moisturizing Hydrating After-Sun Repair Face Cream Mask Unisex Skincare Wholesale Dropshipping

¥2.4$0.40200125.0
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AikePore minimizing, Moisturizing, Hydrating, After-sun repair, Soothing skin, Softening skinNormal specification
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Cross-border Amazon summer water lotion sunscreen SP50 anti-ultraviolet refreshing non-greasy face isolation sunscreen

Cross-border Amazon summer water lotion sunscreen SP50 anti-ultraviolet refreshing non-greasy face isolation sunscreen

500¥5.1$0.8612473.7
  • N/A
Other makeup/beauty toolsOEMNo
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Cross-border Choice Summer Sunscreen SP50 Anti-UV Suntan lotion Facial Isolation Sunscreen

Cross-border Choice Summer Sunscreen SP50 Anti-UV Suntan lotion Facial Isolation Sunscreen

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Aloe Vera Gel Small Branch Moisturizes Skin, Facial Refreshing and Hydrating Students Portable Moisturizing Aloe Vera Gel 30g Wholesale

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Genuine products whitening sunscreen waterproof UV sunscreen spray concealer body sunscreen wholesale

2¥2.56$0.4321,7921,3133.7
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Sourcing Strategies

Choose from 2 pricing strategies based on your target market

Sourcing Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreens: Quality Checklist & Import Guide

This sourcing playbook provides actionable guidance for importing Lightweight Serum & Gel Sunscreensproducts. Our data-driven approach combines supplier intelligence with market validation to help you make informed purchasing decisions and minimize sourcing risks.

Pre-Order Quality Checklist

  • Request and evaluate product samples
  • Verify factory certifications and audit reports
  • Confirm sizing specifications with measurement charts
  • Review care instructions and labeling requirements
  • Agree on defect tolerance and QC process

📋 Documentation Requirements

  • HS code classification for customs
  • Commercial invoice and packing list
  • Certificate of Origin (COO)
  • Care label compliance documentation
  • Test reports (as required by product type)

🚢 Sea Freight

  • Transit: 25-35 days to US ports
  • Cost-effective for bulk orders over $3,000
  • Include moisture protection for textiles

✈️ Air Freight

  • Transit: 5-7 days door-to-door
  • Best for samples and urgent orders
  • Higher cost per kg but faster to market

Related Archetypes in Sunscreen

Frequently Asked Questions

What payment terms are typical for first orders?

First orders typically require 30-50% deposit with balance before shipment (T/T). As relationships develop, suppliers may offer 30/70 splits or even open terms for established buyers. Letter of Credit (L/C) is available for larger orders but involves additional fees.

How do I handle quality issues after receiving goods?

Document issues with photos immediately upon receipt. Most suppliers offer replacement or credit for legitimate defects within agreed AQL limits. Having clear quality specifications in your purchase order strengthens your position in disputes.

Should I use a third-party inspection service?

Third-party inspection is recommended for first orders and orders over $10,000. Services like SGS or Bureau Veritas cost $200-400 per inspection and can prevent costly quality issues. Pre-shipment inspection is most common; in-line inspection adds additional assurance.