Cosmetic Formulation
made entirely in the Azores From formula conception to finished product — we develop unique cosmetics for brands that value science, nature and authenticity. Manufactured in small batches, with full quality control. Services · Development & Production
WHAT WE DO

Scientific partner for your brand

Phytosphera Azorica offers a complete service for cosmetic development — from the initial concept through to the finished, market-ready product. We act as technical and scientific partner to national and international brands seeking authenticity, efficacy and regulatory compliance.

All formulations are developed at our facilities in São Miguel, following the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines of ISO 22716:2007. We use carefully selected ingredients, with a preference for natural, sustainable raw materials that are, wherever possible, of Azorean origin.

Our working model is flexible: we can be involved from the concept and R&D phase right through to the delivery of the finished, packaged product in small batches, adapting to the needs of each project.

Small batches, great rigour

We specialise in small-scale batches — ideal for brands in the development and launch phase, market testing or premium artisan lines. Every batch receives the same level of scientific attention and quality control.

Formula Development (R&D)

Creation of original cosmetic formulations from the brand brief, with performance testing, initial stability assessment and iterative adjustments through to final approval.

Small-Batch Manufacturing

Production of the finished product at our facilities, with quality control at every stage. Capacity for batches tailored to the needs of emerging brands and premium lines.

Existing Formula Consultancy

Review, optimisation and reformulation of existing products — improving texture, ingredient profile, regulatory compliance or raw material substitution.

Packaging & Delivery

Filling, labelling and packaging of the finished product. Coordination with packaging suppliers and delivery of the product ready for distribution.

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

What each service includes

Every project is unique. We work in a personalised manner, with direct and transparent communication at every stage of development.

Formula Development

We create the formulation from scratch, based on the brand brief — product type, target audience, desired ingredients, market positioning and regulatory requirements. Includes:

  • Brief analysis and definition of the technical concept
  • Selection of raw materials and active ingredients
  • Laboratory development and formula iterations
  • Texture, preliminary stability and sensory testing
  • Packaging compatibility assessment
  • Delivery of manufacturing protocol and technical specifications

Consultancy & Reformulation

For brands with existing products that need to improve performance, align with European regulation or update their ingredient profile. Includes:

  • Critical analysis of the existing formula
  • Identification of problematic or obsolete ingredients
  • Proposal of natural or functionally superior alternatives
  • Reformulation and comparative testing
  • Compliance verification with Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009
  • Technical report on changes

Small-Batch Manufacturing

Production of the finished product at our facilities, in accordance with GMP ISO 22716:2007. Ideal for launches, limited editions and artisan brands. Includes:

  • Receipt and quality control of raw materials
  • Production according to validated manufacturing protocol
  • Quality control of intermediate and finished product
  • Batch record and full traceability
  • Filling into primary packaging supplied by the brand
  • Delivery of batch analytical report

Azorean & Natural Ingredients

We value the unique biodiversity of the Azores. We offer formulation development with locally-sourced extracts and active ingredients. Includes:

  • Identification and characterisation of local raw materials
  • Incorporation testing of Azorean plant and marine extracts
  • Efficacy and compatibility testing in formula
  • Preparation of extract technical data sheet
  • Technical ingredient storytelling for brand communication

METHODOLOGY

How we work

A clear, collaborative and results-oriented process — from first contact to finished product.

1

Brief

Initial meeting to understand the project, brand positioning and technical and commercial objectives.

2

Technical Proposal

Ingredient selection, formula concept, cost estimate and development schedule.

3

Development

Laboratory formulation, iterative testing and presentation of samples for brand approval.

4

Validation

Stability testing, packaging compatibility and preparation of the regulatory technical dossier.

5

Manufacturing & Delivery

Batch production, quality control, packaging and delivery of the finished product.

Custom project

Each phase is tailored to the specific needs of the brand. It is possible to begin the process at any stage — for example, if the brand already has an approved formula and requires only the manufacturing and packaging service.

PRODUCT CATEGORIES

What we develop

We cover the main cosmetic categories for personal and body care, with the ability to adapt to specific niches and personalised formulations.

Skin Care

Advanced formulations for the face and eye area.

  • Serums
  • Day and night creams
  • Eye contour products
  • Facial masks
  • Toners
  • Moisturising bases and primers

Hair Care

Products for hair and scalp hygiene and treatment.

  • Shampoos (general use, treatment, gentle)
  • Conditioners and hair masks
  • Hair serums and oils
  • Leave-in treatments
  • Products for sensitive scalp

Body Care

Hydration, nourishment and treatment for the body.

  • Body lotions and creams
  • Body butters and oils
  • Exfoliants (salt, sugar, enzymatic)
  • Multipurpose dry oils
  • Targeted products (hands, feet, décolleté)

Bath Care

Hygiene and well-being at bath time.

  • Soaps (cold process, hot process, glycerine)
  • Bath and shower gels
  • Bath salts and effervescent salts
  • Bath bombs
  • Bath milks and oils

Personal Hygiene

Daily hygiene products formulated with natural ingredients.

  • Facial cleansing gels
  • Micellar and biphasic waters
  • Natural deodorants
  • Natural toothpastes and dental gels
  • Intimate products with appropriate pH

And the Azores?

Exclusive formulations with ingredients from Azorean biodiversity.

  • Seaweed and marine plant extracts
  • Endemic plants
  • Azorean thermal water
  • Volcanic minerals
  • Island honey and propolis

Have a project in mind?

Tell us your idea and we will present you with a preliminary technical proposal.

GET IN TOUCH