For smaller retailers and on-line resellers, a better option for brand name cosmetics is usually the liquidator. These liquidators buy overstock from department stores, as well as from auctions, bankruptcies, and similar events. They often carry a wide variety of brand names, with department store brands like Chanel, Elizabeth Arden, MD Skincare, and hundreds of other brands. Availability of specific products is often irregular, as their inventory depends on what they are able to purchase from overstock supplies. Sometimes they will purchase a huge quantity of a product at steep discounts, and pass these discounts to their customer. This is a prime opportunity for fast acting resellers. Minimum order size varies among liquidators, with some requiring fairly large orders, and others single case lots and smaller. As this is overstock, verify the age of the product, to avoid receiving items manufactured years ago.

Drop shippers often sell national brand cosmetics, but usually only in small quantities and at relatively high prices. Watch their inventory closely, and occasionally there is a bargain with plenty of profit potential.

Avoid imitation products. Imitation cosmetics often are of poor quality, and sometimes will not pass local requirements. This can lead to major issues should a customer be allergic and find the product fake. Use reliable wholesalers and stick to brand name products for the pest profit potential and hassle free transactions.