Questions founders ask.
If yours isn't here, ask it on a discovery call.
Do I need a formula or a lab to start?
No. Most founders start with an idea and a list of things they love and hate in products. That's exactly what Phase 1 is for.
What's the difference between white label, OEM and ODM?
White label means a manufacturer's existing formula, sold under your brand with little or no change. OEM means the manufacturer produces a formula you bring to them. ODM means the manufacturer develops the formula for you, and they may keep the rights to it unless your contract says otherwise. That last part is why it matters who owns the IP. I'll help you work out which route suits your brand.
Who owns the formula?
You do. Everything we create together transfers to you on final payment, yours to keep, take to any manufacturer, or sell with your brand one day.
Do you make the product?
No. Your manufacturer makes it. I write the brief and formula, sit in on manufacturer calls as your technical advisor, and review the samples with you.
Can I take a ready formula to a manufacturer?
Yes. Through my partner lab, we can develop and test your formula before it goes anywhere near a factory. You walk in with a formula ready for production, not just an idea, which gives you more control and less back-and-forth. Lab fees are charged separately.
Can you help me find a manufacturer?
Yes. Over the years I've built a network of contract manufacturers. I'll help you shortlist the right ones for your product, volumes and markets, and support you through the conversations that follow.
Are you tied to any manufacturer?
No. I have no manufacturer affiliations and no brand incentives. My advice is based on what is scientifically sound and commercially sensible for your brand.
Do I have to commit to all three phases?
No. Each phase stands on its own. Many founders start with Foundations and decide from there.
Can you help with regulations?
Yes. I screen ingredients against the rules for Singapore, ASEAN, Australia and the EU, early in Phase 1 and again before launch.
Do you only do skincare?
No. I work on skincare and haircare, and I'm happy to talk about other personal care products on a discovery call.
What does sustainable mean in your work?
Fewer ingredients, each doing a real job. Less waste in development, from fewer failed sample rounds to fewer binned batches. Choices backed by evidence, not marketing.
Can I start at Phase 2?
Yes. If you already have a brief, we start where you are. Sometimes we'll tighten the brief first, because it saves money later.
How long does it take?
It depends on the product and the manufacturer. We'll map a realistic timeline in Foundations, so there are no surprises.
How much does it cost?
Foundations is from SGD 1,000. Formulation development starts from SGD 3,000 per project. Ongoing support is from SGD 800 a month, with a 3-month minimum. Lab and manufacturing costs are separate. All prices are in Singapore dollars.
I just have a quick question. Can I still book?
Yes. Book a discovery call and ask. If it turns into a project, we start at Phase 1.
Ready to go from concept to shelf?
Start with a free discovery call. Bring the idea, the questions, or the confusing quote.