Looking for a sunscreen contract manufacturer you can actually trust? With so many options, finding one that meets your quality standards and production needs can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

As a cosmetic industry researcher, I’ve spent years analyzing skincare manufacturers, testing formulations, and tracking industry trends. I know firsthand what makes a manufacturer trustworthy.

So, who actually stands out?

I compared 9 manufacturers, and Ridgepole came out on top for its certifications, large-scale capabilities, and consistent product quality.

In this guide we’ll discuss 8 other manufacturers with strong offerings. We will break down each one so you can choose the best fit for your needs.

Let’s get started.

1. Industry Zone Overview

China’s skincare and cosmetics industry is concentrated in four major industrial zones, each specializing in different aspects of production, R&D, and global distribution. Below is a breakdown of key data from these regions.

• Guangzhou: Over 370 OEM factories, the highest concentration in China.
• Shenzhen: A growing hub for skincare and makeup enterprises.
• Shanghai: Home to L’Oréal, Unilever, Estée Lauder, and major brands.
• Zhejiang: Leads China with five large-scale cosmetics industrial parks.
• Jinan: A top producer of hyaluronic acid, led by Freda and Bloomage.
• Chengdu: Specializes in herbal and bio-based skincare production.

2. Quick Comparison Chart

The table below provides a quick comparison of the top nine sunscreen contract manufacturers, giving you an at-a-glance look at their expertise, key products, locations, and certifications before diving into a deeper analysis.

3. Ausmetics Group – Best for High-End Brands

City & Country: Australia & China

Established Date: 1998

Ausmetics Group is a leading OEM/ODM cosmetics manufacturer with multiple production bases in Australia and China. They specialize in high-quality skincare and mom & baby care products, catering to premium brands with advanced formulations and upscale packaging.

Key Products: Their main products include Sunscreen Lotion and Moisturizing Face Sunscreen. Sunscreen Lotion offers broad-spectrum UV protection with a hydrating formula. Moisturizing Face Sunscreen provides lightweight sun protection suitable for daily wear.

Takeaway Note: Ausmetics is ideal for luxury brands needing custom, high-end formulations and premium packaging. However, their focus on upscale product development may not suit budget-conscious brands looking for lower-cost solutions.

4. Guangzhou Xiran Cosmetics Co., Ltd – Best for Innovation

City & Country: Guangzhou, China

Established Date: n/a

Guangzhou Xiran Cosmetics Co., Ltd is a cosmetics contract manufacturer specializing in custom skincare and private-label production. They focus on natural, organic, and innovative formulations, making them a great choice for brands seeking eco-friendly and science-backed sunscreen options.

Key Products: Their main products include Natural SPF Sunscreen and Anti-Aging Sunscreen Cream. Natural SPF Sunscreen uses organic ingredients for chemical-free sun protection. Anti-Aging Sunscreen Cream combines UV defense with skin-firming benefits.

Takeaway Note: Xiran is perfect for brands prioritizing clean beauty and innovative formulations. However, their customized approach and premium ingredients may not be ideal for brands looking for simple, mass-produced sunscreen options.

5. Ridgepole Co., Ltd – Best Overall

City & Country: No.68, Jinghu Avenue, Xinya Street, Huadu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong province, China.

Established Date: 1998

Ridgepole Co., Ltd is a leading cosmetics manufacturer with a strong focus on research, development, and large-scale production. Their ECOCERT-certified formulations and advanced R&D capabilities make them a top choice for brands seeking reliable, high-quality sunscreens.

Key Products: Their main products include Botanical Sunscreen and Hydrating SPF Cream. Botanical Sunscreen is made with plant-based ingredients for gentle UV protection. Hydrating SPF Cream delivers sun defense while moisturizing the skin.

Takeaway Note: Ridgepole is a strong option for businesses looking for a well-established manufacturer with reliable certifications and large-scale production capacity. Their broad expertise in sunscreen formulations makes them a great fit for both emerging and established skincare brands.

6. Pure Source – Best for OTC Sunscreens

City & Country: Miami, Florida, USA

Established Date: 1995

Pure Source is a full-service contract manufacturer specializing in creams, lotions, gels, and sprays. They provide turnkey solutions, guiding brands through formulation, compliance, and production. As an FDA-registered drug establishment and cGMP-certified facility, they are well-equipped to manufacture OTC sunscreens that meet strict regulatory standards.

Key Products: Their main products include Broad-Spectrum SPF Cream and After-Sun Cooling Gel. Broad-Spectrum SPF Cream is designed for daily sun protection with FDA-compliant formulations. After-Sun Cooling Gel helps soothe and hydrate sun-exposed skin with calming ingredients.

Takeaway Note: Pure Source is ideal for brands needing OTC-compliant sunscreens backed by FDA regulations and cGMP-certified production. However, their focus on pharmaceutical-grade compliance and extensive regulatory processes may not suit small businesses looking for simple, non-OTC sunscreen formulations.

7. Global Cosmetics – Best for Large-Scale Private Label Production

City & Country: Hong Kong, China

Established Date: n/a

Global Cosmetics is a leading personal care manufacturer specializing in OEM and ODM beauty products. They serve global retailers, small brands, and enterprises, offering custom formulations and large-scale production. Their R&D-driven approach makes them a go-to choice for brands looking for fast production and diverse private-label options.

Key Products: Their main products include Tinted Sunscreen and Sunblock Spray. Tinted Sunscreen provides SPF protection while offering a lightweight tint for an even complexion. Sunblock Spray delivers broad-spectrum sun defense in a convenient, easy-to-apply mist.

Takeaway Note: Global Cosmetics is a great fit for brands needing large-scale private-label sunscreen production with a fast turnaround. However, their high production capacity and global distribution focus may not be ideal for small niche brands needing low MOQs or fully customized formulations.

8. Fragrance Manufacturing Inc. (FMI) – Best for Prestige Sunscreen Brands

City & Country: Texas, USA

Established Date: 1992

Fragrance Manufacturing Inc. (FMI) started as a fragrance contract manufacturer and later expanded into beauty and personal care. They specialize in prestige beauty products, offering custom formulation, packaging, and full-service logistics. Their strong product development team and premium ingredient sourcing make them a top choice for high-end sunscreen brands.

Key Products: Their main products include Luxury SPF Moisturizer and Sunscreen Serum. Luxury SPF Moisturizer combines sun protection with nourishing ingredients for a smooth, hydrated finish. Sunscreen Serum delivers lightweight, fast-absorbing SPF protection with skincare benefits.

Takeaway Note: FMI is a strong choice for prestige beauty brands looking for premium sunscreen formulations and high-end packaging. However, their focus on luxury formulations and advanced product development may not work for budget-friendly brands needing cost-effective sun care solutions.

9. TY Cosmetic – Best for Spa and Salon Brands

City & Country: Guangzhou, China

Established Date: 2009

TY Cosmetic is an OEM/ODM cosmetic manufacturer that specializes in private-label skincare for spas, salons, and e-commerce brands. With 3 production facilities and a dedicated R&D lab, they focus on custom formulations and quality skincare solutions. Their service-oriented approach makes them a strong partner for businesses looking to expand their skincare offerings.

Key Products: Their main products include Whitening Sunscreen Cream and Oil-Free SPF Gel. Whitening Sunscreen Cream protects against UV rays while helping to brighten the skin tone. Oil-Free SPF Gel offers lightweight, non-greasy sun protection, ideal for sensitive and oily skin types.

Takeaway Note: TY Cosmetic is a great option for spas, salons, and private-label skincare brands looking for custom formulations and flexible manufacturing solutions. However, their focus on professional skincare products may not be the best fit for mass-market sunscreen brands requiring large-scale production at lower costs.

10. NF Skin – Best for CBD-Infused Sunscreens

City & Country: Miami, Florida, USA

Established Date: Not publicly listed

NF Skin is a private-label cosmetics manufacturer with expertise in CBD-infused beauty and skincare products. Their focus on hemp-derived ingredients combined with natural herbs and clinically supported actives makes them a leading choice for brands looking to incorporate CBD into their sun care products. With over 20 years of experience, they cater to entrepreneurs, online stores, and MLM companies.

Key Products: Their main products include CBD Sunscreen Lotion and Soothing After-Sun Balm. CBD Sunscreen Lotion combines UV protection with anti-inflammatory benefits from hemp-derived CBD. Soothing After-Sun Balm helps calm irritation and redness caused by sun exposure.

Takeaway Note: NF Skin is ideal for brands wanting to develop CBD-infused sunscreens with skin-repairing benefits. However, since CBD regulations vary by country, they may not be suitable for brands operating in markets with strict CBD restrictions.

11. Blackbird SkinCare – Best for Startups and Indie Brands

City & Country: Guangzhou, China

Established Date: 2002

Blackbird SkinCare is a full-service skincare manufacturer specializing in sourcing, production, packaging, and distribution. They work closely with independent skincare brands, e-commerce retailers, and major corporations, offering flexible production options that help small businesses bring their ideas to market.

Key Products: Their main products include Mineral Sunscreen Cream and Ultra-Light SPF Mist. Mineral Sunscreen Cream provides natural sun protection using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Ultra-Light SPF Mist offers a weightless, easy-to-apply sunscreen solution for all-day wear.

Takeaway Note: Blackbird SkinCare is a great choice for startups and indie skincare brands looking for small-batch production and full-service manufacturing support. However, their focus on independent brands may not be ideal for large companies requiring mass production and extensive distribution networks.

3 Tips to Consider When Choosing a Sunscreen Contract Manufacturer

Finding the right sunscreen contract manufacturer isn’t just about who can make SPF products. It’s about finding a partner with the right expertise, compliance, and production capabilities to support your brand’s long-term success. Below are key factors to consider when selecting a manufacturer.

• UV Filter Formulations: A manufacturer should have extensive experience in developing broad-spectrum formulations that pass stability and SPF efficacy tests. For example, some regions ban certain UV filters due to safety concerns, while others require specific percentages to meet SPF labeling standards. A manufacturer with in-depth knowledge can help navigate these regulations and prevent compliance issues.
• Flexible MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) Options: Some manufacturers require large MOQs that may not suit startups or specialty retailers. Others offer low MOQs but at higher costs. For instance, a wholesale distributor may need 50,000 units per order, while an indie brand might only need 5,000 units. Choose a manufacturer that aligns with your order volume and budget.
• Certifications for Organic, Reef-Safe, and Clean Sunscreens: Many brands market reef-safe, organic, or clean-label sunscreens. Manufacturers must have proper certifications, such as ECOCERT, COSMOS, or NSF/ANSI 305, to support these claims. Without certifications, brands risk false advertising issues.

Conclusion

The natural skincare industry is more competitive than ever. Consumers want clean formulations, brands need reliable suppliers, and regulations keep evolving. Finding a manufacturer that aligns with your goals can make all the difference in product success.

We hope this guide helped you explore the best options. If post-production support has been a struggle for you, Ridgepole is a great solution. Many brands get stuck when manufacturers fail to address concerns after production. Our after-sales team steps in quickly, providing expert technical support and timely solutions to prevent costly delays. Contact us today to learn more.