If you’ve ever squeezed toothpaste, lotion, or hand cream from a tube, you’ve probably never thought about how that tube was sealed so neatly at the bottom. But for manufacturers, that small detail is a major part of ensuring product quality and reliability. At Birchwood Contract Manufacturing, every product that leaves our facility goes through […]
Let’s take a walk through the behind-the-scenes world of cosmetic manufacturing. Know Your Formula Before anything is mixed, the team has to know exactly what they’re making. The formula can impact what size mixing tank, the type of ingredients, and how it will be transported to the needed filling line. Water-based formulas are the lightweights […]
Functional skincare refers to multi-benefit skincare products that combine several active ingredients to solve multiple skin concerns in one formula. Instead of layering five different serums, today’s consumers want streamlined routines with maximum results. In 2025, this trend is exploding—driven by consumer demand, ingredient innovation, and the rise of contract skincare manufacturers helping brands bring […]
In today’s dynamic economic landscape, more companies are embracing nearshoring and reshoring to simplify their supply chains, reduce risks, and create a more agile production system. This means moving production closer to home—or right back to the U.S.—so that goods can get to market faster and meet customer needs more effectively. Birchwood Contract Manufacturing is […]
The Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA), enacted in 2023, has already set a new standard for the U.S. cosmetics industry. While there isn’t a separate legislative act labeled “MoCRA 2025,” the implementation of MoCRA continues to evolve, with several key provisions already in effect and additional changes anticipated later this year. In this blog […]
When it comes to skincare products, the terms "cosmetic" and "over-the-counter (OTC) drug" might sound similar, but they represent fundamentally different categories with distinct regulatory frameworks. Understanding these differences is crucial for manufacturers, especially given the standards set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MOCRA). Having […]
Inside look of Water Qualities in Contract Manufacturing When you think about what goes into your favorite lotion, shampoo, or cleanser, you might imagine a blend of oils, vitamins, or botanicals. But there’s one ingredient that often doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves: water. Yes, water is a cornerstone of personal care formulations, and its […]
In a significant regulatory shift, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently moved to restrict the use of FD&C Red No. 3 in food products. This decision has sparked conversations about the safety of color additives and how regulations differ across industries. FD&C Red No. 3, also known as erythrosine, has been the […]
The holiday season often brings a shift from regular operations to a frenzy of activity for businesses. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or the run-up to Christmas, product demand can soar, creating challenges in production, logistics, and customer satisfaction.. The issue? Many companies simply aren’t set up to handle these intense spikes in […]
When it comes to skincare, the order in which you apply your products is just as important as the products themselves. While it’s common knowledge that serums and creams serve different purposes—serums deliver concentrated active ingredients, while creams provide hydration and protection—the optimal order of application can make all the difference in achieving glowing, healthy […]