How to Find Distributors for Your Cosmetics Brand

1. Start with B2B Marketplaces (Yes, they still work)

For most cosmetics brand owners, platforms like Alibaba and Global Sources are gold mines—if you know how to use them.

💬 Tip: Don’t just list your product. Position yourself as a brand partner, not just a supplier. Highlight things like:

• Low minimum order quantity (MOQ) for private label

• Custom packaging options

• Fast lead times

These features make your brand attractive to serious distributors.

2. Go Where Distributors Hang Out: Trade Shows

Yes, it takes effort (and money) to attend beauty expos, but nothing beats face-to-face trust-building. Some top events you should consider:

• Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna (Italy)

• Beautyworld Middle East (Dubai)

• China Beauty Expo (Shanghai)

Even if you don’t exhibit, just walking the floor and networking can get you far. Bring samples, a well-designed catalog, and your elevator pitch.

3. Slide Into Their DMs—Seriously

Today’s distributors are on Instagram, LinkedIn, and even TikTok. If you’re not using these platforms for outreach, you’re missing low-hanging fruit.

Here’s how to do it without sounding spammy:

• Search for hashtags like #beautydistributor or #makeupwholesale

• Send short, clear messages like:

  “Hi! I’m the founder of a China-based private label cosmetics brand. We offer low MOQ + custom packaging. Are you open to exploring new products for your market?”

🎯 Bonus: Keep your Instagram and LinkedIn profiles clean, visual, and professional. Distributors will check.

4. Use Local Experts—Trade Agents Can Be Your Shortcut

If you’re targeting regions like the EU, Middle East, or South America, local trade consultants or export agents can:

• Introduce you to vetted distributors

• Help with import requirements

• Avoid costly compliance mistakes

Look for agents who specialize in cosmetics—not just general trade. It saves time and avoids mismatched leads.

5. Make Yourself Distributor-Friendly

Think from the distributor’s point of view. They want brands that are:

• Easy to work with

• Transparent on pricing

• Reliable with delivery

• Willing to offer marketing support

For example, at Aurora Global Brands, we help our partners with:

• Private label product lines (like lipsticks, lashes, brushes, etc.)

• Custom formulations

• Flexible packaging solutions

This kind of support makes it easier for distributors to say “yes.”