A realistic timeline from initial brief to stability-passed formula is 12 to 24 weeks. The first prototype usually takes 4 to 6 weeks, with additional weeks for shade iterations, accelerated stability testing (typically 8 to 12 weeks at 40°C/75% RH), and scale-up verification. Rushing stability testing is the most common cause of launch delays in color cosmetics. AJ Cosmo Labs lets you track each milestone inside the iOS app.
Read the full guide on cosmetic chemist who specializes in color cosmetics pigments →