When sourcing sunscreen as a private-label or contract-manufactured product, a well-defined Quality Agreement is one of the most critical tools to prevent costly recalls, regulatory violations, and brand reputation damage. This outline helps brand owners and sourcing teams structure a compliant, auditable agreement with their manufacturing partner.
Why a Quality Agreement Matters in Sunscreen Manufacturing
Sunscreens are regulated as OTC (in the U.S.) or cosmetic products (in many other regions), meaning formulation integrity, SPF testing, and documentation are subject to inspection. A comprehensive Quality Agreement sets expectations for how both the brand (Marketing Authorization Holder) and the manufacturer will maintain compliance.
Essential Clauses to Include
1. Product Specifications & Standards
- Define measurable specifications: SPF value, UVA/UVB ratio, pH, viscosity, and microbial limits.
- Reference regulatory standards: FDA Monograph, ISO 24444, ISO 24443, or local equivalent.
- Evidence required: Certificate of Analysis (CoA), stability report, validated test methods.
2. Raw Material and Packaging Controls
- List approved suppliers for UV filters, emollients, emulsifiers, and packaging materials.
- Require traceable batch records for every component used.
- Evidence: Ingredient specs, supplier GMP certificates, packaging compatibility reports.
3. Testing Responsibilities
- Clarify who pays for and conducts key tests: SPF, broad spectrum, preservative efficacy, stability, micro, and compatibility.
- Mandate use of accredited third-party labs for SPF validation.
- Evidence: Official lab reports, method validation references, retained sample logs.
4. Change Control
- Specify how any formula, labeling, or packaging change must be requested, documented, and approved.
- Set a minimum 30-day notification period for formula or raw material substitutions.
- Evidence: Change request forms, lot control updates, authorization signatures.
5. Production and Release Requirements
- Include in-process controls (viscosity, pH, appearance) and release criteria for finished goods.
- Define acceptable batch yield tolerances (e.g., ±2–3%).
- Evidence: Batch manufacturing records (BMRs), deviation reports, CoA release form.
6. Documentation and Record Retention
- Agree on record retention period—usually at least 3 years or one year past product expiry, whichever is longer.
- Require electronic or hard copy access for audits or recalls.
- Evidence: Retention SOPs, audit trail logs, backup policy summary.
7. Audits, Complaints & Recalls
- Grant the brand audit rights with reasonable notice (e.g., 2 weeks).
- Define complaint handling timelines and recall decision process.
- Evidence: CAPA records, complaint investigation forms, recall response plan.
8. Intellectual Property & Confidentiality
- Clarify ownership of formula, packaging artwork, and claims testing data.
- Include mutual non-disclosure and IP protection clauses.
9. Terms of Delivery, Liability & Termination
- Specify delivery timelines, defect liability, and handling of delayed shipments.
- Describe causes for termination (e.g., serious GMP breach).
Sample Quality Agreement Structure
| Section |
Owner |
Evidence |
| Specifications & Testing |
Manufacturer / Lab |
COA, Stability Data |
| Packaging Compatibility |
Supplier / QA |
Compatibility Report |
| Change Control |
Both Parties |
Change Form Log |
| Complaint Handling |
Brand QA |
Investigation Record |
| Audit & Recall |
Both Parties |
CAPA & Recall Log |
Before Signing: Practical Tips
- Attach the agreed specification sheet and PIF (Product Information File) as annexes.
- Confirm responsibilities for regulatory submissions (e.g., FDA listing or EU notification).
- Ensure pricing, quantity, and delivery terms are handled under the commercial contract—not mixed into the Quality Agreement.
Quick FAQ
1. Is a Quality Agreement legally binding?
Yes, although it supplements, not replaces, the main commercial manufacturing contract. It defines compliance and quality responsibilities rather than price or delivery terms.
2. What’s the difference between a Quality Agreement and an MSA?
The Master Service Agreement (MSA) covers commercial terms; the Quality Agreement sets expectations for product integrity, GMP, and testing duties.
3. Do I need separate agreements for different product types?
If the testing or regulatory classification differs (e.g., OTC vs. cosmetic), each should have its own annex or dedicated agreement.
4. Who owns test data and formulations?
It depends on the contract. Brands should ensure IP ownership clauses grant them access to full test reports and formula composition necessary for registration or recall traceability.
5. How often should the agreement be reviewed?
Annually, or when there are significant regulatory updates, ingredient changes, or facility relocations.
Next Step
Protect your sunscreen launch by securing compliance from day one. Include your target market, SPF levels, packaging direction, and expected launch date when you submit your inquiry.
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Hi, I'm Alex Zong, hope you like this blog post.
With more than 20 years of experience in OEM/ODM/Private Label Cosmetics, I'd love to share valuable knowledge related to cosmetics & skincare products from a top-tier Chinese supplier's perspective.
