Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most common questions we get. If you have a question that isn't covered below, it may be answered in our brochure; click here to request one! You may also contact us at skincare@prestoninc.net or by phone toll-free at 800.766.0375, x2; one of our representatives would be happy to assist you!
MINIMUMS
What is the minimum order?
The minimum opening order is just $250.00; minimum orders after account is opened are $250.00.
What is the minimum number of pieces per sku?
Minimums are as follows:
- 6 pieces per sku for retail products
- 12 pieces per sku for travel sizes
- 24 pieces per sku for sample foils
- 1 piece per sku for professional or gallon sizes
MANUFACTURING/TESTING
What kind of product testing to you do?
Our testing can be broken down in several parts. First, we source our raw ingredient from very ethical, well-respected labs. We have access to all their (non-animal) in vitro and in vivo testing on the ingredients--for sensitivity, effectiveness, and so on. Once we create the formulas we do in vivo testing on our team of volunteers--who have a variety of skin types, ethnicities, geographic locations, ages, etc. We gather that data and adjust formulation as needed to come up with a product that meets our goals. That process can take over a year, depending on the results of the tests. Or it can take as little as a few months for simple products (like our bath bon bons, for example). Once that's done, we begin microbiological testing of the product, ensuring its stability under temperature extremes, ability to effectively handle introduced pathogens, etc. That process is usually about two months. After that, we do periodic tests of our control batches to ensure that over time product is remaining stable.
Do you test on animals?
We test our products on human volunteers, not other animals. In addition, we use vegetable-derived replacements for ingredients that are traditionally animal-based.
QUALITY
I've heard that private label products don't have the same quality as branded lines.
This is a long-standing myth in our industry. As with branded lines, certainly there is a wide range of quality in private label lines and you need to evaluate suppliers to find the ones that meet your requirements. Some are less finely formulated, others are of extremely high quality and efficacy. What many people don't realize is that some of the high-performance branded lines we perceive as being of better quality are in fact manufactured by private label companies–companies that offer you similar quality and sophisticated state-of-the-art formulas while helping you build your brand. You do get what you pay for; in the case of branded products, often what you're paying for is a costly advertising and marketing campaign, extra packaging, "free" shipping, "free" bags, "free" samples and "free" marketing materials.
How are your products formulated to deliver active ingredients?
The products generally are absorbed into the dermis because they are small molecules in solution. You will notice that when the skin is dry, or just freshly cleansed, that it absorbs creams very quickly. The emulsion nature of creams and lotions allow for very good absorption, right out of the base. The oil phase carries oil-soluble actives, and the water phase carries water-soluble actives. We have actives that are protected by something like Vitamin E, or are mixed into the oil phase by homogenisation, which manufactures super-small micellar structures, giving a tight oil-in-water emulsion. This is more stable than the normal mixing process. The actives are sealed in the inner phase, allowing them to remain stable for a long time.
ORDERING
The Preston Line has so many products, and they seem to overlap in terms of their function. Why is this?
Private label lines differ from branded lines in that we are catering to a very broad market. Our products are used to create day spa lines, medical spa lines, lines geared toward yoga devotees, anti-aging lines, teen lines, men's lines, products specifically for pregnant mothers, gift lines, resort spa lines...and the list goes on! That being the case, offering a wide variety of choices enables us to fulfill our clients' various needs. For every skin type or need there may be several great choices, and your sales representative will be happy to help you choose the right mix for you.
Do you offer sample or travel sizes?
Yes, we offer both. Our samples come in foil blister packs, and each piece carries your logo. Our travel sizes range from 1/4 ounce to 1 ounce, and again, each piece is labeled with your logo.
How do I choose what products to start with?
Your Preston Private Label Account Representative will be glad to help you with this. We will ask you questions about your business and your clientele, then make recommendations.
What is the average size of a starting line?
This is variable. Some of our clients are starting out and have tight budgets, others are well-established and carry a good portion of the line. When you’re launching your brand, having a basic regimen for each skin type–cleanser, toner, moisturizer, serum and exfoliant–is advised. This will allow customers access to your brand, and start to build loyalty. As sales grow and higher margins provide more buying power, you can add on.
TIMELINES
I’m opening my doors in three weeks and want to have my products in the shelf. Is that possible?
While we will make every effort to get product to you as quickly as possible, we require your sign-off on label mockups before we will go to print. The process of getting your logo, sending you mockups, allowing for adjustments and then fulfilling your order typically takes a minimum of one month, and can take longer depending on the design. What’s most important is creating an accurate, beautiful look for your brand.
How long does the label design process take?
This is a highly variable process. If you have a logo ready to go in JPEG, TIFF or EPS format that we can plug into our existing label template using the standard design model, we can be ready to set up and print your labels in as little as a week or two. If you have a more complex label design in mind or don’t have a logo ready to go, the process can take longer. We will always do our best to set appropriate expectations and your account representative will ensure that the process moves forward as quickly as possible.
Once I’ve got an approved label, how long will it generally take for my orders to arrive?
Because we produce our products for a wide variety of brands, we don’t stock pre-labeled product. We ask that you allow 3 weeks from time of order for us to select your products, print and apply labels, and deliver them to you. Our experience has been that orders will frequently arrive sooner, and clients simply re-adjust their ordering strategy to accommodate the lead time. We always strive to provide product as quickly as possible, and you may select faster shipping options to reduce time to your door.
Why are Preston Private Label shipping times longer than other suppliers?
Unlike other private label providers, the product we ship to you is fully custom labeled (with your logo, website information, phone number), not pre-screened packages to which you affix a sticker. We carefully apply all labels for you, saving you time and effort. The printing and labeling process requires some extra time on our end. Our unique printing process allows us to provide you with a fully custom look without the large minimums typically required.
What about rush orders?
Due to the labeling required, we always recommend planning ahead so you’ll have stock on hand. Nevertheless, emergencies happen and if you let us know what you need we will do our best to get it to you right away.
PACKAGING/LABELING
Can I use my own packaging?
Our manufacturing machinery and label templates are all calibrated specifically for our packaging. As such, we only use our standard packaging. However, we have have two distinct packaging options for you to choose from, allowing to you create the product colllection that best fits your marketing concept.
Are there any packaging options?
Yes. In addition to the two different packaging choices, we can enclose either type of packaging in boxes for a small upcharge per piece. Ask your account representative for details.
Is the packaging for Preston Naturals the same as the packaging for Preston Private Label?
Yes. The branded version of Preston Naturals, Yüm Gourmet Skincare, has it's own packaging, but if you choose to private label it you will be choosing from the two Preston packaging options, either Signature or Platinum.
Will you make labels for my other non-Preston products?
We only make labels for Preston products.
What if I want to purchase your products but don't have my label ready yet?
No problem. We can sell to you under the Preston Professional Skincare label until your own design is ready to go. It isn't uncommon for new clients to purchase backbar products with the Preston label, so they can begin learning/using the products prior to roling out their brand.
Can you help me design my label?
We are happy to provide you with the names of several excellent designers who have worked with us on labels and can help you create a beautiful design. Logos and label designs must be complete when we receive them in our layout department.
What colors can I use on my labels?
We use a printing process that will allow us to use a almost any color, with the exception of metallics. We can use photographs or colorful logos. You can specify up to 10 Pantone spot colors if they are used in your existing logo, and we will create the closest match possible.
Does the product ship with labels already applied?
Yes. All you need to do is price them and put them on your shelves.
Can I change the names of the products?
Yes, you can. This is one of the most wonderful things about our labeling process, as it allows you to create names that tie in with your own environment and services.
Can I change the product descriptions on the products?
Yes, you can. This is beneficial when you change the product names as well, creating a completely unique product that your customers can only buy from you!
What kinds of designs work best on your labels?
Labels with good contrast of dark/light colors and a fair amount of white space will have the cleanest, crispest result. Heavy, dark ink coverage or tone on tone designs may not reproduce as well. Overall, simpler is better, and tends to have better shelf appeal. Our graphics requirements document will give you or your designer very detailed information on label design.
FEES
You ship from Canada and I’m in the United States. Do I need to fill out any customs paperwork?
No. We handle all of that for you.
What does the one-time label set-up fee cover?
The fee covers the cost to set up all your labels. If you add products to your line later, they will, in most cases, still be covered by the initial set-up fee. Please see the Label Setup Pricing sheet for details, as prices vary according to label complexity.
MISCELLANEOUS
What kind of training do you provide?
All clients have access to our free regional trainings. Our very detailed product guide, including technical product pages, business support and service protocols, is free to new clients. We always welcome clients to our training center in Santa Fe, NM for a hands-on product review session–great for training a lead employee or manager who can go back and train the rest of the team! Opening orders of $7500 or more may qualify for on-site training.
Do you do custom manufacturing?
No we do not. We prefer to focus our formulating efforts on products that can benefit all our clients.
Can I customize or choose the fragrance for products in your catalog?
The products in our catalog are set formulas.
