Cosmetic Formulation Australia

Epilab is a cosmetic formulation lab in Melbourne. We develop, test, and refine new cosmetic and personal care formulas for brands, entrepreneurs, and clinical practitioners across Australia. Formulation is what we do before the manufacturing run begins, the lab work, the active selection, the texture iterations, the stability testing, the documentation. Get the formulation right and the rest of the project flows. Get it wrong and even the best manufacturing cannot save the product.

What cosmetic formulation actually involves

A formulation project typically progresses through: creative brief and benchmark product analysis, raw material sourcing, first lab samples, sensory and stability review, refinement iterations, microbial and packaging compatibility testing, pilot-scale production, and finally regulatory documentation (AICIS where applicable). Each stage has decisions that affect the next, the actives you choose drive the base system, which drives the packaging, which drives the regulatory pathway.

Bespoke formulation vs private label

Bespoke formulation means we develop a unique formula to your brief, you own it, no one else can sell it, and you have something genuinely differentiated. Private label uses one of our existing tested formulations with your branding, faster to market, lower cost, but you do not have a unique product. Many brands run both: a flagship bespoke product alongside a private-label support range.

Active ingredients and base systems

We formulate across the full spectrum of cosmetic chemistry: emulsions (O/W, W/O, multiple emulsions), serums (water-based, oil-based, anhydrous), gels (hydrogel, oil gels), creams (light, rich, heavy), balms, sticks, sprays, mists, masks, and foams. Active ingredient experience covers vitamin C, retinoids, niacinamide, peptides, hyaluronic acid, AHA/BHA, ceramides, plant extracts, probiotics, plant-derived growth factors, and bespoke active blends.

Stability testing as standard

Every formulation we develop undergoes documented stability testing, accelerated stability (45°C, freeze-thaw cycles, light exposure) and real-time monitoring. This is non-negotiable for products that need to sit on a shelf for 12-24 months. Customers expect the product to look, smell, and perform the same in month 18 as in month 1, and stability testing is how we deliver on that promise.

Working with us on a formulation project

A typical formulation engagement runs in parallel with packaging selection and brand work, taking 2-4 months from kickoff to a stable, approved formula ready for production. We work iteratively, first samples in 3-4 weeks, refinement rounds in 2-3 week cycles, final approval when you say so. After formulation, the same project transitions seamlessly into manufacturing, filling, and packing in our Cheltenham facility.

Start a formulation project

Browse our services, six-step process, pricing, related face serum and cosmeceutical capabilities, common questions in our FAQ, or contact us.

Related: For the full category pillars we manufacture, see Skincare Manufacturer Australia, Hair Care Manufacturer Australia, and Baby Products Manufacturer Australia.