In the competitive B2B skincare world, your response to a new inquiry sets the tone for the entire business relationship. Whether it’s a startup looking for a private label partner or a growing brand ready to scale, how you communicate—clearly, professionally, and with value—can turn a single message into a long-term collaboration. Here’s how to do it right.
1. Don’t Rush—Acknowledge and Qualify the Inquiry First
Before jumping into prices and timelines, take a moment to qualify the lead. Many skincare buyers send out bulk inquiries with minimal context. A professional response that gently asks the right questions shows you’re serious about delivering custom solutions—not just generic offers.
Sample Reply Template:
“Thank you for reaching out and showing interest in our OEM skincare services. To better understand your project, could you kindly share a bit more about your brand vision, target market, and which types of products you’re interested in developing?”
Key details to clarify:
Product type (e.g., facial serum, body lotion, cleanser)
Target region or market
Estimated order quantity (MOQ)
Need for custom formula vs. private label base
Packaging requirements
Desired timeline
This step builds rapport and ensures you don’t waste time quoting for the wrong product or model.
2. Pricing Isn’t Just a Number—Set the Context
Once you have a better understanding of the project, share pricing in a clear, structured format. Avoid vague “it depends” answers, and instead, explain what is included in the pricing and what might change it.
What to include in your quote:
Unit price based on MOQ
Pricing with and without packaging
Whether shipping is included (EXW/FOB/CIF)
Services like formula customization, testing, or labeling
Example Format:
“For a MOQ of 3,000 pcs of the Brightening Face Cream, the estimated cost is $2.35/pc FOB Guangzhou. This includes our standard private label formulation. Packaging and custom fragrance would be quoted separately.”
Being upfront about these elements prevents confusion later on and builds trust.
3.Be Transparent with Timelines and Plan
Time is a major factor for B2B skincare clients. Brands may be preparing for seasonal launches or investor pitches, and they’ll appreciate a clear roadmap. A vague “about one month” can cost you the deal—precision equals professionalism.
Break down your timeline:
Sample development: 7–14 working days
Revisions (if needed): 5–10 working days
Mass production: 25–35 days after approval
Shipping: Based on destination and method
Sample timeline response:
“We can prepare samples within 10 business days. Once approved, bulk production typically takes 30 days. We can also help coordinate shipping based on your region.”
Bonus: Include estimated lead times for packaging production if it’s custom-designed.
4. Highlight Your Professionalism in the Details
Small things make a big impression. Show you’re not just a factory—you’re a professional partner who understands the skincare business.
Professional extras you should offer:
Packaging dieline templates
Ingredient breakdowns and documentation (COA, MSDS)
Support for product claims and regulatory compliance
Sensory customization (texture, fragrance, color)
Phrase it like this:
“Our team can provide a label dieline, assist with ingredient lists for INCI compliance, and adjust texture or fragrance based on your brand’s positioning.”
Even if a customer doesn’t ask for these things upfront, offering them shows you’re proactive and experienced.
5.Tell Them What to Do Next—Clearly and Confidently
Instead of closing with a passive “Let me know,” guide the client toward a next step. Make it easy for them to move forward by offering options and being accessible.
Example CTA options:
“Would you like to schedule a call to discuss formulation ideas?”
“I’ll send over a basic quote based on your MOQ. Once confirmed, we can start sampling.”
“Would it help if I shared a few similar case studies?”
Professionalism is not just in how well you respond, but how easy you make the process for the other side.
Conclusion: Be Clear, Confident, and Collaborative
A thoughtful, structured response to a B2B inquiry tells your future client: “You’re in good hands.” It reflects not just your communication style, but the quality of your manufacturing, your experience in the skincare industry, and your long-term value as a partner.
When in doubt, aim to:
Listen before selling
Quote with context
Be specific with timelines
Showcase your value through details
Always invite the next step