Essential Terminology to Know Before Working with Korean Cosmetic Manufacturers
As the global demand for K-beauty continues to rise, more international businesses are looking to collaborate with Korean cosmetic manufacturers. However, navigating this industry can be challenging without a basic understanding of the common terms and jargon used throughout the manufacturing and development process. Whether you're sourcing private label products, discussing formulation details, or reviewing regulatory documents, having a solid grasp of these key terms will help ensure smooth communication and successful partnerships.
This guide introduces essential terminology you should know before diving into the world of Korean cosmetic manufacturing.
Product Development & Planning
Product Development Brief
Think of this as your product’s blueprint — the document you hand to the R&D team to explain exactly what you want. It covers everything from texture and color to fragrance and key ingredients. The more detailed and specific your brief is, the better the outcome. This is the foundation of the entire development process, so take your time and get it right.
Product Types by Format
Product: This is the full-size version made for official sale — the one your customers would actually buy.
Sachet: A small, single-use sample (usually 1–7ml) made for promotions. It’s great for events or letting people try your product before they commit.
Miniature: A slightly larger sample (about 5–20ml) that can be used a few times. Miniatures are often bundled into sets so customers can try different products at a lower cost, and hopefully come back for the full-size version later.
SKU (Stock Keeping Unit)
SKU stands for Stock Keeping Unit — the smallest unit used to track inventory. Even if you're selling the same cream, different sizes or packaging types (like a jar vs. a tube) each have their own SKU. Managing your SKUs well helps optimize production, inventory control, and customer satisfaction.
Formulation
Formulation is the term used to describe how a cosmetic product is made — the combination of ingredients, how they’re mixed, and the texture that results.
It can mean a few different things depending on the context. Sometimes it refers to the product’s physical form, like a toner, cream, lotion, gel, or emulsion. Other times, it’s more about how the product feels — things like how smoothly it applies, how well it absorbs, or how moisturizing it is. In some cases, it even reflects the product’s ingredient philosophy, like whether it’s vegan, natural, or organic.
Since this word gets used in so many different ways, it’s a good idea to be as specific as possible when talking about formulation.
INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients)
INCI is the global standard for naming cosmetic ingredients. For example, the INCI name for green tea extract is Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract.
This system helps reduce confusion between countries and simplifies the export process. It also allows consumers to easily check for ingredients that may not suit their skin.
Each country defines which ingredients can or can’t be used in cosmetics sold within its borders based on INCI. This allows you to verify whether your product complies with the regulations in your target market by using its INCI.
Official INCI information is provided by each country’s cosmetics regulatory authority.
Ingredient List
This is the full list of ingredients included in your product.
It’s a mandatory requirement under cosmetic regulations in most countries and is usually found on the product packaging or on online product pages.
Since there are strict rules about the order of ingredients, font size, and exceptions to labeling, it’s important to understand these guidelines clearly during the packaging design process.
Quality & Certification
Stability Test
This test ensures that a product holds up well under stress conditions like heat, humidity, and light. The goal is to confirm the product doesn’t spoil, change color, or lose effectiveness over time. It’s essential to guarantee quality and safety — all the way to the last drop.
Stability testing is typically carried out by the manufacturer using their own equipment and methods. That’s why it’s so important to work with a trusted, reliable manufacturing partner.
CT (Compatibility Test)
A compatibility test checks how well the formula and container work together, both physically and chemically. It looks for any changes in color, scent, or texture when the product comes into contact with the container — and makes sure the packaging doesn’t deform or leak over time.
It also looks at how easy the product is to use. Does it come out smoothly? Is the amount right for each use?
It’s a must-do test before launch and helps make sure the product stays safe, stable, and easy to use from the factory to your customer’s hands.
Clinical Test
A clinical test is a study conducted on people to verify the effectiveness and safety of a cosmetic product. Conducted by certified clinical research organizations (CROs), participants use the product for a set period under the supervision of experts. Skin condition is then assessed both quantitatively and qualitatively.
While clinical tests are often used for marketing purposes to prove a product’s claims, in some countries, they're legally required if you want to promote certain functions like brightening or wrinkle improvement.
CoA (Certificate of Analysis)
A CoA is an official document that confirms whether a finished product meets required quality standards. It doesn’t just cover the product’s appearance, it also proves that the formula complies with legal regulations.
It’s a mandatory certification that proves compliance with regulations — and is essential before launching your product to market.
MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
An MSDS contains important details about the physical and chemical properties of raw materials — including how to handle them safely and what hazards they may pose. It’s essential not only for cosmetics but for any chemical substance, ensuring safety during transportation, storage, and use. It is one of key materials when sharing information among manufacturers, importers/exporters, and distributors.
It also ensures compliance with international safety standards, especially when exporting products.
CGMP (Cosmetic Good Manufacturing Practice)
Cosmetic Good Manufacturing Practice is a set of quality and safety standards for making cosmetics that are clean, consistent, and reliable. It covers every step of the process, from receiving raw materials, to production, filling, packaging, storing, and final shipping.
These standards help make sure that every product is made under strict hygiene and quality controls, so you can be confident in its safety and performance.
If a manufacturer is CGMP certified, it means they’ve been officially recognized for meeting global standards. It’s always a smart move to check for this certification when choosing a partner. It shows they’re committed to doing things the right way from start to finish.
ISO (International Organization for Standardization)
ISO certifications are international management system standards that assess whether a company meets global requirements for quality, environmental, and safety practices.
In the cosmetics industry, ISO 22716 is especially important. It’s the international guideline for cosmetic manufacturing and quality control, and helps prove that a manufacturer can maintain a clean, safe, and stable production environment.
A manufacturer with ISO 22716 certification is recognized for producing consistent, high-quality products and is well-positioned to compete in global markets. Along with CGMP, this certification is a key indicator of a manufacturer’s overall quality standards.
Packaging & Component
Packaging Materials
This term refers to all the materials used to package a cosmetic product. It includes containers, unit boxes, labels, and more. These materials not only protect the product but also play an important role in communicating your brand image.
Container
This is primary packaging that directly contains the product itself — Tube, jar, pouch, etc. It directly affects how the product is used and helps maintain hygiene and product stability. The container’s design, function, and material can strongly influence both brand identity and the user experience.
Unit Box
The unit box is an outer box that holds the container. It’s usually made from durable paperboard to protect the contents during storage and shipping.
The unit box also displays important information like your brand name, product name, and full ingredient list — so it’s both a protective layer and a key branding element.
Finishing Effect
Finishing refers to the visual or tactile details added to a container or unit box to make it stand out. Techniques like coating, embossing, debossing, or specialty printing can give your packaging a distinctive look and feel, helping express your brand’s personality and leave a lasting impression on customers.
There are a few things to keep in mind when deciding on finishing effects.
Finishing options depend on the material of the container or box, so having references for finishes can make communication with your partners much clearer.
Finishing choices can also affect cost and minimum order quantities. It’s important to check the impact during the design phases to avoid rework later.
Since this process often involves balancing creative vision with production realities, it’s a good idea to consult with an expert to make smart, informed decisions.
Stock Packaging
A stock packaging refers to a ready-made container that can be mass-produced using an existing mold. (When working with manufacturers in Korea, the term “free-mold” is commonly used)
While it may limit your ability to create a fully custom design, it’s a great option for saving time and production costs.
That’s why stock packaging is often used for small production runs or when launching a new brand.
Mold
A mold is a custom-made metal form used to shape cosmetic containers. Unlike stock packaging containers, creating your own mold allows you to bring a unique design to life — one that truly reflects your brand identity. While it requires more time and budget, it can be a powerful way to leave a strong visual impression and build a recognizable brand.
Dieline
A dieline is the flat layout used when creating containers or unit boxes. It shows where the material will be cut, folded, and printed — including trim lines, fold lines, and print zones.
Designers use the dieline to place graphics, logos, and text in the right spots, while manufacturers use it to produce the packaging in the correct size and shape.
Think of it as the blueprint for your packaging design.
Copy & Legal Text
This includes all the written content on your product’s packaging or instructions — from product names and usage guidelines to safety warnings and ingredient disclosures.
It must comply with legal regulations while also conveying your brand message clearly. Getting this right is crucial for both consumer trust and regulatory approval.
Production & Manufacturing Process
Bulk
"Bulk" refers to the unfilled cosmetic formula — the raw content before it’s packaged.
For example, if you produce “100kg of bulk,” it means you have 100 kilograms of the product ready for the filling stage. Once bulk production is complete, the product goes through filling and packaging.
Filling
This is the step where your bulk product is dispensed into its final container — whether that’s a bottle, jar, or compact. It can be done manually or using automated machines, depending on the product type.
At this stage, precise volume control and techniques to fill the container without damaging the product are crucial.
Packaging
Packaging is the final step after filling, where outer components like the unit box are added to complete the product. It’s an important stage that ensures safe delivery and creates a smooth, satisfying experience for the customer.
This process includes placing the product into its box, sealing it, applying stickers, and packing it into outer cartons. Packaging not only protects the product from damage and contamination but also brings your brand identity to life through design and presentation.
Pilot Test
A pilot test is a small-scale production test done before full manufacturing begins. It checks whether the production process runs smoothly on actual factory equipment.
This step helps identify and fix any issues that might come up when transitioning from lab to large-scale equipment — making it a crucial part of a smooth production process.
Batch Number
A batch number is a unique identifier assigned to a group of products manufactured in the same production cycle.
It’s critical for traceability — allowing you to track, audit, or recall specific batches if quality issues arise.
Bill of Materials (BOM)
A BOM is a master list of all the packaging components required to produce a product. It includes specifications, quantities, and measurements for containers, caps, unit boxes, and more.
This document is essential for cost calculation, production planning, and ordering the right materials.
Packaging Specification
This document provides detailed packing instructions — including how many units per box and how to pack the products.
Following this specification ensures safe handling during transit and helps streamline logistics throughout your supply chain.
Inbox / Carton Box
An inbox is a secondary box used to group a set number of individually boxed products. It’s especially useful for storage or small deliveries, and often comes with dividers or padding to keep the products from shifting or getting damaged.
A carton box is the large outer box used for final shipping. It’s usually made from sturdy corrugated cardboard and holds multiple inboxes. It protects the products during transit and includes key info like barcodes and delivery details to keep everything organized in the logistics process.
Product Specification
This document captures all the core details about your product — volume, formulation, ingredient list, test results, and more.
It acts as a master reference for quality control and ensures that all production batches stay consistent.
Purchase Order (PO)
A PO is a formal document that confirms the quantity and delivery timeline for your product order. It’s the core agreement between your company and the manufacturer.
It helps avoid miscommunication, sets expectations, and ensures both sides are aligned from the start.
Raw and Packaging Material Inspection
Before production starts, both raw materials and packaging components are inspected to make sure they meet pre-defined quality standards. This includes checking the color, scent, size, and print accuracy.
The inspection ensures product consistency and may also be required for export certifications and compliance documentation.
Final Thoughts
The language of the beauty business is more than just industry jargon — it’s how ideas turn into real, sellable products. These cosmetics industry terms aren’t just for experts; they’re practical tools that help you make better decisions, avoid misunderstandings, and collaborate smoothly with everyone involved in your brand.
Once you get the hang of key concepts like a Product Development Brief or a Certificate of Analysis, you’ll start to see just how much thought, care, and teamwork go into creating even one product — from lab to shelf.
Knowing the right terms also helps you build stronger relationships with your partners, whether you’re working with a manufacturer, a designer, or a packaging supplier. It saves time, prevents mistakes, and makes sure everyone’s on the same page.
In this industry, having a great idea is just the beginning. To really bring it to life, you need to speak the same language as the people who help make it happen.
At PLANIT147, we’re here to support you every step of the way — from building your brand to launching your products. We hope this guide helps you move forward with more clarity, confidence, and inspiration, whether you’re planning your first launch or scaling your beauty brand to the next level.