FAQFAQ
FAQ
Questions regarding quality
1．Can you make high-quality and original products?
Sanshokaken conducts research and development with a focus on the functionality and usability desired in the cosmetics. Seeking to increase end-user satisfaction in all aspects from ingredients to packaging, we conduct research in order to create original, superior products.
2．Can you create exactly the same product as we currently use in our business?
For originality, we recommend an upgrade with a slight modification in ingredients rather than "exactly the same product."
3．We want to start selling soon. Can you offer me a few choices of contents to choose from?
Yes. We offer a line of successful products for customers to choose from.
4．What should we do about the design?
We ask you to provide a design of your own. We can propose ideas for containers and packaging.
5．Can I bring in my own ingredients?
Yes. First, we must check whether your ingredients can be included in the cosmetic formula.
6．Do we have to prepare our own packaging materials?
We can propose ideas, and we can also introduce possible business partners.
7．Can we bring in our own packaging or containers?
Yes. However, our quality control department will conduct a quality test, and if we find something unsuitable, we ask you to switch to another container/packaging. Also, we can introduce container manufacturers, etc. to you as necessary.
8．Can you print on bottles?
Yes, but the minimum lot size changes depending on the container, so please ask us for details (same for coloring).
9．Can you put stickers on the bottles?
Yes.
10．Do you designate the delivery format for containers that we provide?
Not really, but we do ask you to provide an indication, such as placing a label with the material content on the outside of the box.
11．Do you have any limitations on using containers from overseas?
We conduct tests on the containers to determine their suitability. If they are deemed unsuitable, we will ask your customers to switch to another container.
Questions regarding the deadline
1．How long does it take from commercialization to delivery?
For new products, we finalize the formula, test the stability of the formula, test the stability and safety of the container, and receive the ingredients/packaging materials before we begin production; in total, we require approximately three months. For repeat orders, we require approximately 40 days from the order receipt. *For quasi-drugs, additional time for regulatory application will be necessary. The time required varies by formula, packaging material, production volume and other specifications, so please feel free to come to us with your questions.
2．Can you shorten the time needed to finish the product so we can sell it sooner?
We can finish the product in a shorter time by offering our customers one of our existing successful products that best suits their needs.
3．How long does it take to finish a prototype?
It depends on the prototype, but approximately one to two weeks for an existing formula, and approximately three weeks for a new formula.
4．The time until the initial delivery is rather long. Can it be shortened?
After the formula is finalized, we spend approximately one month on stability testing, and then we need a little over two months for the procurement of ingredients and packaging materials, manufacture, inspection, container filling, and inspection. If the formula is finalized early on, and if the stability test is completed at the time of order placement, we may be able to deliver in one-and-a-half months, depending on the availability of the facilities. The time required varies by formula, packaging material, production volume and other specifications, so please feel free to consult us for details.
Other questions
1．How many/much prototypes do you make?
We generally provide sufficient prototypes for about five people, unless otherwise specified by the customer. The content is usually enough for a one- or two-week trial.
2．How much does it cost to make the prototypes?
We provide the prototypes at no cost.
3．How much does it cost overall?
The cost depends on the product specifications, number of lots, etc., and we will give you an estimate after discussing the details. After we know your budget, production volume and other wishes, we give you a proposal based on the specifications. In addition to the product cost, there is also the initial cost for plate-making for the container and boxes, the mold, etc. The initial cost depends on the specifications, so please feel free to consult us for details.
4．What is the minimum production volume for commercialization?
One hundred kg. For a 100 ml product, 1,000 units. However, orders from 30 kg are accepted for low-viscosity products such as lotions and beauty serums. Depending on the container specifications, the smallest production quantity could be 3,000 units.
5．What is the difference from OEM?
In the case of ODM, our focus is on proposals of planning and design; our activities mainly concern design proposals using our signature materials resulting from our technology development.
6．I don't know much about cosmetics, but is product commercialization still possible?
Please rest assured that we will be providing you with a product proposal that meets your wishes.
7．What kind of products can be manufactured?
Products we manufacture from start to finish include skincare products, our main focus, as well as hair care products, hair growth formula, eyeliner, and certain quasi-drugs, and products manufactured on commission include soaps and makeup products.
8．Can we consult you regarding product planning or marketing?
We will listen to your wishes, and plan, design and propose a product plan in line with concepts that appeal to your target customers.
9．What should we prepare for our meeting?
Please let us know your product concept, sales routes, and target users.
10．Are there any matters related to the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act that we need to handle before selling?
To ensure that consumers can use products safely, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare provides guidance on product manufacturing and sales methods in accordance with the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act. Our expert staff will guide you through these matters all the way until the ODM product sale begins.
11．How much information do you need for the product name application? Is there a charge for this?
We need the official product name. There is no charge.
12．What is the difference between applications for quasi-drugs and cosmetics?
Notification for cosmetics only requires one day. We must apply for approval for quasi-drugs; it requires at least six months, and sometimes more than one year, to obtain approval.
13．Will our confidential information remain safe?
Your information will be treated as most confidential from the moment you send us an inquiry. We will never disclose or leak to external parties any information on your company or the content of our consignment relationship.
14．Can we take a factory tour?
As a general rule, we allow our customers to view the factory during the production of their own products.
15．Please describe your delivery method.
We make one shipment for each order. Our designated courier will handle the delivery.
16．Our office/location is not in Osaka or Tokyo. Is this a problem?
Our expert sales representatives will be happy to visit you.
17．We are located overseas. Can we still place an order?
We have one Chinese-speaking sales staff member, one sales subsidiary in Singapore, and one sales subsidiary in Beijing. We are prepared to deal with overseas orders in a timely manner.