How Medpak Created a Self Tanner That Aligns With Credo Beauty Standards
Creating a successful self-tanner involves more than just blending a few ingredients together. It requires precision, innovation, and a deep understanding of consumer needs. Tanning Brand wanted to sell a self-tanner product at Credo Beauty, but the challenge lies in meeting the retailer’s commitment to clean beauty.
As the trusted cosmetic manufacturer, Medpak Solutions addressed and resolved the concern by developing a self-tanning product in line with the Credo Beauty standards. We made sure to deliver a product that will be the next hit among Credo cosmetics.
Disclaimer
Since we can’t disclose any details about the self-tanner brand, we’ll refer to it as “Tanning Brand” for privacy purposes.
We understand the market and our client’s vision.
Before the formulation process even began, we made it a priority to fully understand the Tanning Brand and the retailer’s philosophy. Since Credo Beauty is recognized for its commitment to clean, cruelty-free products, Tanning Brand should meet high standards in terms of product quality:
Free from synthetic chemicals or controversial ingredients.
Should align with promoting effective and environmentally friendly products.
A successful product isn’t just about the right ingredients but also about the experience it provides to consumers.” – Medpak Solutions
The right color, scent, texture, and ease of application were just as critical as the formula’s effectiveness. Since the Tanning Brand wanted a natural, streak-free tan without harmful ingredients, the aim was clear: create a self-tanner that’s clean and effective while offering a premium user experience.
It started with picking the right ingredients.
Choosing the right ingredients is necessary for performance and safety. These components will dictate the product’s effectiveness.
We focused on using skin-nourishing, natural ingredients that produced the best tan while ensuring the skin remained hydrated and healthy-looking. The product’s formula included plant-based hydrators that helped nourish the skin and supported smooth application.
Since Credo Beauty Brands must be cruelty-free and green, we replace harmful ingredients from traditional tanners with natural alternatives.
Natural Ingredient
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) from Sugar Beets or Cane Sugar
Replaces
Synthetic DHA (often petroleum-derived)
Benefits
Reacts with amino acids in the skin to create a natural tan. Look for ECOCERT-certified DHASynthetic DHA (often petroleum-derived)
Natural Ingredient
Erythrulose (Red Raspberry Sugar)
Replaces
Chemical colorants & artificial bronzers
Benefits
Works with DHA for a streak-free, long-lasting tan and prevents orange undertones.
Natural Ingredient
Aloe Vera
Replaces
Artificial skin conditioners & petroleum-based emollients
Benefits
Hydrates, soothes, and prevents skin dryness or irritation.
Natural Ingredient
Coconut Water
Replaces
Silicones & synthetic humectants (like propylene glycol)
Benefits
Deeply hydrates, plumps the skin, and maintains elasticity.
Natural Ingredient
Green Tea Extract
Replaces
Synthetic antioxidants & preservatives (like parabens)
Benefits
Protects against environmental damage and supports an even tan.
Natural Ingredient
Shea Butter & Cocoa Butter
Replaces
Mineral oils & petrolatum-based moisturizers
Benefits
Moisturizes deeply, prevents streaking, and keeps skin soft.
In addition to the basics like DHA, we blended botanical extracts to make the formula kind to the skin. The use of natural oils and emollients created a smooth, non-greasy texture that absorbed quickly for a luxurious feel.
How We Overcome Challenges in Formulation
No Artificial Dyes
The Goal
One of the biggest challenges was creating a product with no artificial dyes while still ensuring the formula would give the right color payoff. Most tanners rely on artificial colors to produce a tan that looks realistic, but this compromises the product’s clean credentials.
Our Solution
Refine the DHA concentration and use a combination of other natural color enhancers for a natural-looking tan without using artificial colors or additives. We achieved a deep, even color that would last without looking unnatural or too dark.
No Strong Odor
The Goal
DHA, the key ingredient, produces an unpleasant scent as it reacts with the skin. We’re determined to develop a formula that minimizes this odor.
Our Solution
We chose ingredients that neutralized the scent and incorporated soothing natural fragrances that helped mask any residual DHA smell to leave the skin with a fresh, clean scent.
Testing and Refining
After developing the formula, it is subjected to a series of rigorous tests. It wasn’t enough to just have a good formula; the product needed to perform consistently across a range of skin tones and conditions. There are in-house and third-party testings to make sure the product was as effective as promised.
What We Did?
Our team worked closely with Credo Beauty throughout the process—making adjustments and refinements based on feedback. Every revision focused on improving application consistency, color uniformity, and product longevity. After several iterations, we arrived at a tanner that met Credo Beauty’s clean standards and performed flawlessly across different skin types.
Thinking of making your own clean beauty product? Get started with the right cosmetic manufacturer.
The Final Product: A Tanner That Skyrockets Sales
The self-tanner that we’ve created for Tanning Brand was a product that consumers searching for “Credo Beauty near me.” It delivered a streak-free, natural-looking tan with no orange undertones, and it did so without relying on harmful ingredients.
The product was formulated with the highest quality ingredients, and it performed well across all skin tones. The scent was mild, and the texture was smooth. It will provide a luxurious application experience. As a result, Tanning Brand increased their Credo Beauty Sale, which they’ve shared with us after almost a year of release.
Total Sales Growth | Units Sold | Observations | |
Pre-Launch | 10% | 4500 | Baseline sales before the self-tanner release |
1-3 months | 15% | 6000 | Strong initial demand as the product becomes available on Credo Beauty |
4-6 months | 20% | 7500 | Positive customer reviews and repeat purchases |
7-9 months | 22% | 8100 | Sustained growth and continued sales from existing and new customers. |
The Science Behind Self-Tanners
Tanning products rely on a key ingredient called DHA (dihydroxyacetone). DHA reacts with amino acids in the skin’s outer layer to create a temporary bronzing effect. However, the challenge is in balancing the formulation to avoid undesirable side effects like an orange hue, streaks, or a strong chemical scent.
Our team of formulators leverage their deep knowledge of cosmetic chemistry to refine the tanning process. The final product had to meet high standards in terms of color consistency, scent, and overall skin feel. We made sure the DHA concentration and the formula’s pH are just right to produce a natural tan while being safe and effective for a wide variety of skin tones.
Innovative Self-Tanner Made Possible by Medpak Solutions
The development of a self-tanner was a perfect example of how Medpak Solutions combines scientific expertise with creative problem-solving. Our partnership with Tanning Brand demonstrates how innovation, precision, and a deep understanding of consumer needs can come together to create effective products with the highest ethical standards. This tanner is not just a product but a testament to the power of collaboration and the potential to bring something new and exciting to the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best form of self-tanner?
The best form of self-tanner depends on personal preference. Mousse, lotion, and spray options all offer great results. Mousses are quick-drying, lotions provide hydration, and sprays give an even, streak-free finish.
Are self-tanners good for skin?
Yes, they are generally safe for the skin. Our formulas contain moisturizing ingredients and antioxidants that hydrate and nourish the skin while providing a sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV exposure.
What age group uses fake tan the most?
According to the study from the Journal of Dermatology Nurses’ Association, Women aged 18–29 tend to use spray tanning (9.1%) and indoor tanning (15.9%) more than women aged 40–49, who use spray tanning (4.4%) and indoor tanning (8.9%) less.
What's the status of self-tanners in the beauty market?
Self-tanners are a growing segment in the beauty market, which is now a safer alternative to sunbathing. With innovations in formulas, consumers now have access to more effective, natural-looking options, making tanning a mainstream choice for achieving a bronzed glow year-round.