There are two alternative routes that you could go prior to selling anything. Both are not simple. Depending on your state you could: 1) Engage the prospective client to be tested for any allergic reaction to your product you make yourself. You can do a simple test on the wrist of the client over a period of several days to see if there is an allergic reaction. Then upon completion of the transaction have the client sign a waiver freeing you from liability stating that you had tested the product on the client and there was no adverse reaction. 2) Have a liability waiver prepared by an attorney as part of your sales contract. (Sort of the short part of #1 above) It depends on the state you're in and their rules and regulations, and also possibly how you sell your product---for example, I live close to the borders of 3 states. If I were to take my product out of my home state and sell in another, its no longer intra-state commerce, but interstate commerce. In terms of the insurance you should buy, standard business liability insurance tailored to your business needs should suffice, but you may be able to find cheap basic liability insurance by doing some research with organizations made up of home-based cosmetic makers/sellers, as well as any on-line information you can find. For example, Petsitters have a national organization thru which you can purchase liability insurance.

Go to Indie Beauty online at www.indiebeauty.com & they have a great inexpensive insurance for their members who make home cosmetics. By joining Indie you'll have a wealth of other resources for your business & support from the whole network of members who are doing exactly what you are doing. You'll love it! I joined last year & it's the best thing that's ever happened to my home business.

I agree with the other two answers. You might also want to consider forming an LLC as well.

You need general liability insurance and product liability insurance. I would also recommend a commercial umbrella policy. I would suggest the business be set up as a corporation if it isn't already done so to protect your personal assets. You may want to check with an attorney in your state to be on the safe side. I suggest you obtain coverage from an insurance broker in your area. We write this type of insurance in NC, SC & VA. teresa@providencemga.com