The skincare industry is glowing—literally! With self-care on the rise, selling skincare products online is more profitable than ever. From go-to hydrating serums to SPF-packed sunscreens, demand keeps skyrocketing.
For solopreneurs, the opportunities are endless. You don’t need a massive budget—just the right products, smart sourcing, and solid marketing.
This guide covers the ultimate skincare products to sell, how to source them, and how to build a standout beauty empire.
Whether you're interested in luxury creams or affordable essentials, there’s a go-to market for every price range. Customers constantly search for high-quality formulas that deliver visible results, from a subtle glow to deep moisturization.
If you're interested in turning your passion for beauty into a thriving business, now is the perfect time to start—at the right price, with the right strategy.
Let’s dive in!
Why selling skincare products online is profitable
Skincare is a billion-dollar industry. In 2025, the global skincare market is expected to hit $196.7 billion, with steady growth ahead. The US leads the way, estimated to generate over $26 billion in revenue.
Niche targeting makes this business even more profitable. Customers seek specialized products for acne-prone skin, anti-aging, or hydration, allowing brands to cater to specific needs and stand out.
Best of all, skincare isn’t a one-time purchase. Loyal customers restock their favorite products regularly, creating consistent sales and long-term brand growth.
Sourcing skincare products for your online business
Launching a successful skincare brand starts with sourcing the right products. Whether you're crafting your own formulas, buying in bulk, or partnering with private-label suppliers, your sourcing strategy shapes the foundation of your business. Let’s explore the options.
Creating your own skincare products
- How it works: You'll need basic formulations, equipment, and FDA-compliant labels for safety. And, most importantly, skills in chemistry to make your products.
- Benefits: Crafting your own products allows full control over ingredients and branding.
- Best for: Entrepreneurs with a passion for product innovation or targeting niche needs (e.g., all-natural or organic skincare).
Buying skincare products in bulk
- How it works: Purchase ready-made products in large quantities at a lower cost per unit.
- Benefits: Quick turnaround and lower manufacturing hassle.
- Challenges: You’ll need storage space and a clear sales plan to move inventory.
- Best for: Brands that prioritize affordability and scalability.
Using private-label suppliers
- How it works: Companies like Supliful offer private-label skincare, allowing you to customize and brand ready-made skincare products. You just need to sign up and create your skincare store on Shopify, and then once you've picked the products and created labels on Supliful, you can sell those on your store!
- Benefits: It’s fast, requires minimal upfront investment, and offers flexible product options like serums, body lotions, and cleansers.
- Best for: Solopreneurs looking for an easy-to-launch, scalable business model with a unique brand identity.
To build a successful skincare brand, choosing the right sourcing method is key—whether you create your own formulas, buy in bulk, or use private-label suppliers like Supliful. Once you’ve secured your products, the next step is knowing which skincare items sell best online.
Top skincare products to sell online
The key to a successful skincare business is offering products people actually want—and skincare lovers are always on the hunt for their next holy grail. From hydrating moisturizers to targeted serums, this section covers the ultimate skincare products to sell online, plus trending ingredients and marketing tips.
Moisturizers
Moisturizers are a skincare staple—everyone needs one, making them a top-selling category. They help lock in hydration, protect the skin’s moisture barrier, and cater to all skin types.
💡 In the spotlight: Watermelon Hydration Moisturizer. A refreshing, lightweight formula packed with skin-loving hydration. As part of the Supliful product catalog, you can brand it and sell it without buying stock. So, $0 investment in inventory.
Popular options include rich night creams, gentle daily moisturizers, and lightweight hydrating formulas for oily or sensitive skin.
Profit potential
Moisturizers typically retail for $20–$50, with premium creams priced even higher. Bulk manufacturing costs range from $10–$15 per unit, allowing for a markup of 3x–5x. With smart marketing and sales strategies, you can sell at premium prices and maximize profits.
Serums
Serums are highly concentrated, results-driven products that address specific skin concerns, making them customer favorites. Best-selling serums often contain powerhouse ingredients like:
- Vitamin C. Brightens skin and fights dark spots.
- Hyaluronic acid. Deeply hydrates and plumps the skin.
- Lactic acid. Gently exfoliates for a smoother texture.
💡 In the spotlight: Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Unlike other hyaluronic acid serums on the market, this product is packed with multiple types of hyaluronic acid, each targeting a different layer of the skin. For those interested in vitaminized skincare: Vitamin C Serum for that radiant, even-toned glow.
Profit potential
Serums retail anywhere from $25–$80, with luxury retailers pricing their items above $100. Bulk costs for high-quality serums range from $5–$15 per unit, meaning markups of 4x–8x. Since serums are highly sought-after, they make for high-margin products.
Cleansers and exfoliators
A good skincare routine starts with cleansing. Gel, foam, and cream-based cleansers cater to different skin types, while exfoliators help slough off dead skin for a fresh, smooth look.
💡 In the spotlight: Gentle Cleansing Gel. An oil-free gel that removes impurities while infusing skin with the moisture-rich benefits of watermelon and apple extracts.
Exfoliators, such as face exfoliators and body scrubs, help brighten and renew the skin, making them a must-have for skincare enthusiasts.
Profit potential
Cleansers retail for $15–$40, while exfoliators can go for $20–$50. Manufacturing costs are usually between $3–$10 per unit, leaving room for 3x–5x markups. Exfoliating products, especially enzyme-based formulas, tend to sell at higher price points.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step in skincare, and its demand keeps growing. Customers look for lightweight, non-greasy formulas that protect against UV rays without leaving a white cast.
Marketing tip: Highlight your sunscreens’ “non-sticky” and “fast-absorbing” properties to appeal to daily users. A skincare item like that is sure to become someone’s favorite.
Profit potential
Body sunscreen products sell for $15–$50, with high-end mineral sunscreens priced above $60. Bulk purchase costs range from $4–$12 per unit, meaning potential markups of 3x–6x. Since customers repurchase sunscreen often, it creates a steady revenue stream.
Body care products
Skincare doesn’t stop at the face! Body lotions and oils are in high demand, especially those with hydration-boosting ingredients like coconut-rich water and jojoba oil.
💡 In the spotlight: Nourishing Jojoba Face Oil. A luxurious oil for deep moisture and glow. It has a blend of Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil, Squalane, and botanical extracts, delivering deep nourishment and a calming touch for a radiant, revitalized complexion.
Trendy ingredients like coconut water and shea butter can raise product appeal, making body care an excellent addition to any skincare lineup.
Profit potential
Lotions and oils retail for $18–$45, with premium versions priced at $60+. Bulk manufacturing costs range from $4–$12 per unit, meaning markups of 3x–5x. These products are often sold in bundles, increasing the average order value for your business.
Acne treatments
With millions struggling with this skin condition, skincare in this category is always in demand. Over-the-counter creams, serums, and spot treatments help manage breakouts, making them essential for skincare brands. Acne-prone customers always search for effective solutions, creating a loyal, repeat-buying audience.
Profit potential
Acne treatments range from $15–$55, with premium targeted solutions priced even higher. Bulk costs range from $4–$12 per unit, allowing markups of 3x–6x. Since customers use these products consistently, they often buy in multiples, boosting overall sales.
Specialty products
Luxury and niche skincare products are growing in popularity, especially those targeting anti-aging, deep skin moisturization, and skin repair.
💡 In the spotlight: Sleep Plus Collagen Cream. Infused with collagen for skin restoration and enriched with avocado and lavender oils for deep moisturization, this cream enhances elasticity, smooths texture, and leaves skin soft, soothed, and refreshed by morning.
For those wanting to focus on skin brightening and smoothing skincare: 10% Niacinamide Serum.
Niche picks like retinol creams and peptide-infused treatments set brands apart and attract skincare-savvy customers looking for targeted results.
Profit potential
Specialty skincare products retail from $30–$100, with luxury retailers pricing them even higher. Bulk manufacturing costs range from $8–$20 per unit, meaning markups of 4x–7x. Since customers see these as high-value investments, they’re willing to pay a premium price for results.
By offering the right mix of everyday essentials and high-performance treatments, you can create a skincare brand that keeps customers coming back for more!
How to choose the right skincare products for your business
Not all skincare products are the right fit for your business. To succeed in the online marketplace, you need products that align with your brand, have strong market demand, and attract a loyal audience. Here’s how to make smart choices.
Aligning products with your brand’s mission
Your brand should tell a clear story—are you offering clean beauty, luxury skincare, or affordable essentials? A strong brand identity helps attract the right customers and builds trust.
💡 Example: If you want to provide hydrating skincare for dry skin, focus on moisturizers, oils, and rich creams rather than oil-control products.
Importance of sourcing from trusted suppliers
Your business is only as good as your products, so choosing high-quality suppliers is essential. Whether you're buying in bulk or using a private-label supplier like Supliful, ensure they offer safe, tested formulations with clear ingredient transparency.
Pro tip: Partner with suppliers that provide FDA-compliant products and easy branding options.
Checking market demand for your chosen products
Before investing in a product, research its demand. Use online selling sites, trend reports, and competitor analysis to see what’s trending. Look for:
- High search volume for ingredients like vitamin C or hydrating serums.
- Growing sales trends on platforms like Shopify and Amazon.
- Customer reviews highlighting common skincare needs.
Smart strategy: Start with a few proven products, track sales, and expand based on customer demand.
Understanding your audience
Knowing who you’re selling to is just as important as choosing the right skin care products. A targeted approach ensures your offers connect with the right buyers.
Your audience could include:
- Beauty enthusiasts looking for the latest trends.
- Customers with specific concerns (e.g., oily skin or anti-aging).
- Eco-conscious shoppers wanting clean beauty and sustainable packaging.
Pro tip: Tailor your messaging to your audience’s biggest concerns—highlight how your products solve their skin care needs.
Focusing on a niche helps your company stand out in the crowded market. Some high-demand niches include:
- Oily skin solutions: Oil-free moisturizers, mattifying cleansers, and lightweight serums.
- Hydration-focused skincare: Hyaluronic acid serums, rich moisturizers, and lotions for the body with coconut-enriched water.
- Sensitive skin formulas: Gentle cleansers, fragrance-free creams, and soothing treatments.
Once you’ve chosen the right skincare products for your business, the next step is building an online store that stands out and promoting it effectively to drive sales.
Branding and promoting your skincare business
Your brand isn’t just about your products—it’s the story, emotions, and values that make your business unique. A strong brand identity builds trust, attracts loyal customers, and increases online sales. Here’s how to create a memorable company and promote it effectively.
Building a memorable brand
Your brand must be clear and consistent to succeed in the competitive skin care market. Decide how you want customers to perceive your business and reflect that in every aspect, from packaging to messaging.
Options to position your company:
- Luxury. High-end ingredients, elegant packaging, and a premium price point.
- Affordable. Budget-friendly products that still deliver great hydration and smooth results.
- Eco-friendly. Sustainable, cruelty-free, and natural skin care options.
Creating a company logo and selecting colors
Your logo and color palette should align with your brand identity. Soft, earthy tones suit natural skin care companies, while sleek black and gold signal luxury. Keep it simple, memorable, and easy to recognize.
Use online tools like Canva or hire a designer on Fiverr or Upwork to create a professional logo.
Promoting your skincare products online
A strong promotion strategy is key to driving sales in the competitive online marketplace. Use these proven methods to reach your audience:
- Social media platforms
Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are goldmines for selling skin care. Post before-and-after photos, ingredient highlights, and customer testimonials to build engagement. - Influencer partnerships
Partnering with influencers can introduce your skin care to thousands of potential buyers. Even micro-influencers (with 10K–50K followers) can drive sales through authentic recommendations.
You can also partner with magazines or online news sites. Get a senior editor from a beauty magazine to review your hydrating serum, boosting credibility and visibility.
Using online marketplaces
Selling through online marketplaces can expand your reach and increase sales, but each platform has its pros and cons.
Popular platforms include:
- Amazon. High traffic but competitive. Requires fees and strict seller policies.
- Shopify. Full control over your online store and sales, but requires marketing efforts.
- Etsy. Great for handmade or boutique skin care products but limited for mass production.
Pros of using online marketplaces:
- Immediate access to millions of shoppers.
- Built-in payment processing and logistics support.
Cons of using online marketplaces:
- High competition and potential platform fees.
- Less control over branding compared to your own website.
At the end of the day, decide if you want your products to be among other seller’s skin care items (go for Etsy or Amazon), or if you want your own space (Shopify).
The importance of consistency in skincare use
Educating customers on the importance of consistent use helps boost sales and customer satisfaction. If buyers understand that skincare is a long-term commitment, they’re more likely to repurchase. Here’s how you can reinforce this message:
- Add skin care routines to product descriptions.
- Share educational content on your blog or social media about how moisturizers, serums, and cleansers work best with regular use.
A well-defined brand, strategic marketing, and smart use of internet sales platforms—to sell things online—can help your business thrive. Next, let’s wrap things up with a roadmap for your skincare success!
Your path to skincare online sales
The world of skin care is booming, and for a good reason—people are always searching for the best cream, serum, or treatment to improve their routine.
With high demand and repeat customers, selling certain products online can be a smart way to make money while doing something you love.
By choosing the right cream, sourcing quality ingredients, and using smart marketing strategies, you can successfully sell skincare in the competitive market. Whether you focus on anti-aging solutions or body care, there’s a space for your business to grow.
Now’s the time to take the next step! Start selling, build your online store, and turn your passion into a full-time job in the skincare industry. The future of beauty is online—make your mark today!
FAQ
The most popular skincare products vary based on trends, but vitamin C serums consistently rank as a top seller. Known for brightening skin tone and protecting the skin’s barrier, vitamin C is a must-have in many skincare routines. Other top products include body wash, moisturizers, and sunscreens, as they are daily essentials for all skin types.
A solid skin care routine starts with the following. Cleanser—removes dirt, oil, and makeup to keep skin fresh. Moisturizer—helps maintain moisture and prevent dryness or irritation. And sunscreen—protects the skin’s barrier from harmful UV rays and premature aging. For added benefits, many people also incorporate vitamin C for brightness and vitamin E for extra nourishment.
The best website depends on your business model. Shopify is great for building your own store, while Amazon and Etsy offer high traffic for sellers. If you want to sell skincare through a world-recognized platform, Amazon is a strong choice, but it requires handling sales tax and fulfillment logistics.
The best method is creating a strategy that combines your own website, online selling platforms, and social media. A mix of organic marketing, influencer collaborations, and paid ads helps drive sales while keeping customers engaged. Selling through your own site gives you control, while platforms like Amazon provide instant access to a world of buyers.
Using platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Poshmark, you can start selling with zero upfront costs. Social media can also help—post products on Instagram or TikTok to attract buyers. For skincare, partnering with beauty influencers or offering free samples can treat your audience to a preview before they buy. Don’t forget to showcase how your products remove makeup, nourish the lips, and help improve skincare routines.