cosmetic ingredients | in-cosmetics Connect

Coming up

in-cosmetics — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 07:56:00 +0000

LAUNCHES, TRENDS AND MORE

If you are keen to learn about the latest ingredient launches, formulation expertise or trends in personal care, check out our range of live events as well as live and on-demand webinars. Enjoy these face-to-face or in the comfort of your home, lab or office!

NEXT LIVE EVENTS COMING UP

With events taking place around the world in 2024, take this opportunity to meet the personal care ingredient community face-to-face…

Dates:

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WEBINARS ON-DEMAND

From the microbiome to cannabinoids, J-beauty ingredients or the joy of plumping, check out our wide range of on-demand webinars going back several years.

View previous webinar sessions and tune in on-demand

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in-cosmetics Asia 2024 smashes attendance record as Asia rises

in-cosmetics group press office, Storm Communications — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 09:05:56 +0000

-Organisers reveal details of biggest event in show’s history-

21 NOVEMBER, BANGKOK: in-cosmetics Asia 2024, the leading event in Asia Pacific for personal care ingredients, drew nearly 20,000 visitors (including revisits) when it took place in Bangkok from 5-7 November 2024, making it the biggest event in the show’s history.

Boasting 13,103 unique attendees (11% up on 2023), the event also recorded a new high of 43% international visitors. In total, 5,591 attendees travelled from beyond Thailand, marking a 19% increase compared to 2023.

Overall, the event at BITEC featured 637 exhibitors, including major multinational ingredient suppliers like Ashland, BASF, Clariant, and Croda. Dynamic and niche suppliers from 36 countries – including Australia, Brazil, Egypt, and the United States – showcased their innovative ingredients, targeting the expanding opportunities in the Asian market.

Looking to the future

This year’s exhibition was a true celebration of innovation, with many companies using it as a launchpad for their latest product developments. Eurofragrance showcased Scentphony, a sensory collaboration blending fragrance and music, while Kaffe Bueno introduced KLEANSTANT®, a bio-based anionic surfactant upcycled from coffee by-products, used in shampoos, body washes and cleansers. LipoTrue also introduced two new ingredients: Deepstrine, a marine ferment aimed at nurturing and repairing stretch marks and Lightmony, a botanical blend designed for a radiant glow.

For the first time ever, the Innovation Zone, sponsored by Mibelle Biochemistry, reached a significant milestone with 100 brand new ingredients launched within the last eight months. Entries were automatically entered to the Innovation Zone Best Ingredient Awards. Givaudan secured Gold in the Actives category for Neuroglow, an ingredient which mimics the beneficial properties of sunlight. In the Functional category, Lucas Meyer Cosmetics by Clariant took home Gold with Pickmulse, the first quinoa starch-based ingredient allowing easy formulation of Pickering emulsions.

Learning from the best

The event united R&D experts from across the region, including representatives from P&G, L’Oréal, Shiseido, Estée Lauder, Unilever and Amorepacific who came together to network with industry peers, hear about upcoming trends, and meet with current and potential business partners. Future industry trends were a key focus of the educational programme, with themes such as technology, science-backed beauty, AI, and anti-ageing solutions, as well as K-Beauty, C-Beauty and T-Beauty.

One of the most popular sessions was led by KinShen Chan, Principal Beauty and Personal Care Analyst at Mintel, looking at ‘2025 global beauty and personal care trends.’ Chan highlighted expected growth in the Southeast Asian cosmetics industry, pinpointing three significant trends: consumers will “work smarter, not harder,” leveraging knowledge, tools, and technology for personalised, high-impact solutions; they will prioritise eco-ethical practices, connecting sustainability with high-performance beauty; and adopt ‘slow beauty,’ focusing on prevention over repair and embracing simplicity.

This year marked the debut of in-cosmetics Asia’s first Cosmetic Conference, held in association with the International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Scientists (IFSCC) and sponsored by dsm-firmenich. Featuring experts from IFSCC, L’Oréal, Shiseido and Shieling Laboratories, the conference focused on key topics like AI, skincare, and haircare, with a keynote from Perry Romanowski, Chair of Education at the IFSCC.

There were further science-based sessions held in the Formulation Lab with 10 action-packed presentations showing attendees how to formulate finished products. These included a packed demonstration by Clariant on encapsulated UV filters that enable lightweight, high-protection, flexible sunscreen formulations UV filter system, as well as Nikko Chemicals running a training session on Skinified serum sunscreen with a combination UV filter system.

The rise of Asian suppliers

The 2024 edition highlighted the growing prominence of Asian suppliers, as European companies increasingly turn to the region for sourcing and local operations, in part due to global political uncertainty and supply chain disruptions.

Several leading companies demonstrated the significant strides being made in ingredient innovation and product development, evidenced by Singapore-based Wilmar securing the Silver Award in the Innovation Zone Best Ingredients – Functional Category, while China’s Bloomage Biotechnology Corp., Ltd. earned Silver at the Spotlight On Formulation Award.

Japan also made a strong impact, with 23 exhibitors showcasing their advanced ingredients; notably, TriBeaute introduced AzePore, a multifunctional moisturising, anti-ageing, and anti-acne agent, while Thailand’s Speciality Natural Products Public Company Ltd. presented a natural extract developed in collaboration with local agricultural networks.

Sarah Gibson, Event Director of in-cosmetics Asia, said: “This year’s event has emerged as an unparalleled hub of international influence, witnessing a 19% increase in attendance from outside Thailand, alongside a significant representation of brands from beyond the Asia-Pacific region. Most importantly, we are thrilled to see the flourishing collaborations and valuable partnerships that have taken root, fostering a profound sense of camaraderie among all attendees. in-cosmetics Asia 2024 stands as a pivotal milestone for both the business sector and the community within our industry.”

in-cosmetics Asia 2025 will take place from 4-6 November at the BITEC, Bangkok, Thailand. For more information or to register interest for the event, visit the website here. For images of the 2024 event, please click here.

ENDS

For further information please contact Olivia Evans or Frankie Banton at the in-cosmetics press office on 020 7240 2444 or in-cosmetics@stormcom.co.uk

About RX

RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.

About RELX

RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX. *Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors.

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The post in-cosmetics Asia 2024 smashes attendance record as Asia rises first appeared on in-cosmetics Connect.

Sensory and aromatic essentials of cosmetic formulas

Belinda Carli, Institute of Personal Care Science — Wed, 01 May 2024 13:13:17 +0000

I often get asked: what is the difference between pharmaceutical formulation and cosmetic formulation? While the use of therapeutic actives and delivery is often cited as the most obvious variation, the other main distinction is that cosmetic formulas must be much more aesthetically pleasing to consumers than their medicinal counterparts.

When creating pharmaceutical formulas, we need to be concerned foremost with ensuring stable and effective delivery of a medicinal compound; how the product feels or smells is of much lesser importance.

When it comes to formulating cosmetics however, while the product must perform as required by a consumer, it must also provide a pleasing sensory experience to fulfill their expectations and meet often intangible desires.

Let’s look at some formulating tips to ensure your cosmetic formulas deliver on the sensory and aromatic aspects deemed desirable and essential by consumers.

Immediate sensory pleasure can build cosmetic brand loyalty

When a consumer tests a cosmetic product, they will usually apply a small portion to the back of their hand or palm, smell it, then rub it between their fingertips. See additional interesting consumer habits in this video. This can mean the difference between them purchasing a product or choosing to leave it on the shelf.

You can alter the immediate sensory pleasure of a cosmetic product by:

selecting emulsifiers that have a cushioning feeling without excessive rub in time;
choosing lipids with volatility or little play time for oily skin types;
using lipids with a buttery sensory for dry or sensitive skin products;
combining lipids to create a long spreading emolliency required by body products; and/or
adding gums that can alter the spread and feel of lipids on contact.

You may also find it useful to add cooling ingredients (such as menthol) or warming ingredients (such as zeolite) in certain cosmetic formulation types for an extra wow factor on application. See more tips on how to formulate for rapid results with this blog. Testing the immediate sensory experience of a product with a target consumer group can be an important aspect to see how well your cosmetic formula appeals to them from the very first introduction.

Lasting sensory appeal can support the activity of the cosmetic formula

The lasting sensory of a product needs to support the performance aspects of the cosmetic formula. In formulation terms, examples include:

formulas for dry, mature and sensitive skin types need a lingering emolliency on the skin, long after it has been applied;
cosmetics for hair care should have little to no residue shortly after being applied – volatile lipids can be a great way to achieve this result;
make up products need to spread well during application but then must not run into fine lines or move throughout the day;
formulas for oily skin types should remain relatively weightless from application – but usually benefit from the addition of humectants for non-greasy hydration.

Think about the needs of your target consumer: the lasting sensory profile of a cosmetic formula should support these needs to ensure the best results of the product over a prolonged period.

The aroma must appeal to the target market

The aroma of your cosmetic formula can be used to entice a consumer to test its sensory, and can reinforce the message you are trying to convey about the product. The smell of a cosmetic product has such a powerful impact, it can instantly appeal or deter a consumer from purchase! For example, if you are formulating for a:

sensitive skin market: fragrances and essential oils are often avoided.
budget market: cheap fragrances with simple aromas are usually the best choice.
natural market: essential oils or natural fragrances created from essential oil isolates are generally required.
luxury market: the aromatic profile must be highly specialized to your ideal consumer, whether it be from essential oils or fragrance materials.

When creating cosmetic formulas with essential oils, remember their input is generally too low to be of therapeutic benefit, and their inclusion must not be marketed based on their traditional medicinal uses. Some essential oils can support the performance of active ingredients by balancing the sebum levels of the skin or hair, although their use must be carefully considered if the aromatic profile is not appealing to your target market, despite their benefits.

Aromas can also be used to define a product range, impart an uplifting or relaxing mood, cover undesirable body odours or boost attraction. Learn how to choose aromas to suit your target market, including the use of essential oils, and incorporate them safely into your formulas.

Why sensory and aromatic principles are essential in cosmetic formulas

Consumers have a lot of choice when it comes to personal care. The immediate and long-term sensory aspects of a cosmetic formula, and especially its aroma, can be a make-or-break point when consumers are considering whether to purchase new cosmetic products. Consumers can’t often know just how well a product will work when they are first introduced to it at the shelf – but they can sense whether they like how a product smells and feels almost immediately. Use the tips in this article to ensure the sensory experience suits their preferences and boosts the positive experience of using your brands cosmetic products.

Remember to test the suitability of the sensory and aromatic profiles of your intended product before launching on members of your target market to ensure it hits the right note.

Happy formulating!

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Reinventing masculinity: Men’s grooming in APAC

in-cosmetics group press office, Storm Communications — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:55:32 +0000

In the heart of the bustling APAC region, a quiet revolution is taking place. Men, once known for their stoic approach to personal care, are embracing a new era of self-expression and grooming. Traditional masculinity is evolving, and it’s become evident in the realm of men’s grooming and cosmetics.

Today, younger men across the region are exploring a new world of self-care comprising skincare, haircare, shaving care, and cosmetics as a result of social media, social movements, self-empowerment, and more.

Historically, the Asian male grooming market has been relatively small with personal care companies understandably focusing their efforts on the more lucrative female segment.

But as the industry has been forced to broaden its offering to suit today’s more modern male audience, the market value has rocketed; in 2022, the sector was estimated to be worth USD $36.93 billion and is now projected to reach USD $56.6 billion towards the end of this decade[1].

This year’s in-cosmetics Asia show in Bangkok, Thailand honed in on the transformation of manhood and masculinity via grooming and self-care.

One-size-fits-all

In the not-so-distant past, there was limited choice in male grooming products, from basic bar soaps to the trusty 3-in-1 wonder that promised to tackle face, hair, and body in one handy bottle, forcing many men to conform to a rigid and rather dull mold.

Today, as society more readily recognises diverse expressions of masculinity, men have access to a much wider product spectrum.

One pioneer in this space is Two Dudes, an award-winning natural skin and body care products supplier from New Zealand. The two founders struggled with the existing product offer for men, finding it “difficult, confusing, and embarrassing”, so they embarked on their own journey to provide natural care to thousands of men across the world.

Lavish routines

The influence of social media and the level of self-consciousness it has generated has no doubt played a role in highlighting skin and hair differences globally.

Amongst Asian consumers, these typically include naturally paler, more hydrated skin which can be more prone to hyperpigmentation, melasma, lentigines, and freckles.

According to Mintel, Asian male consumers are becoming increasingly more aware of their appearance and in this region, skin health can be regarded a symbol of overall health, higher social status and professionalism[2].

Further research from Mordor Intelligence attributes part of the market growth to the high density of young men in the urban clusters of the APAC region, who typically have greater disposable incomes, resulting in the adoption of habits that tackle any personal care concerns and allow access to additional self-care habits including pedicures, facials, aromatherapy, and more[3].

Remote working

While some say the pandemic ‘dampened’ the male grooming and skincare markets[4], others believe the inception of remote working made men in Japan more conscious about their appearance during video calls[5].

In response, Shiseido created an AR filter specifically for men including lip balm, eyebrow pencil, concealer, and BB cream to help men look “sharper” and “more put together” for their video meetings[6].

What was on show at in-cosmetics Asia

Honing in on the transformative changes in the APAC region’s grooming and cosmetics industry, this year’s in-cosmetics Asia event featured a host of exhibitors providing leading innovations to the male grooming market.

BIOGRÜNDL, S.L. showcased its natural facial hair growth retardant, BARBER RETARD, based on the combination of three plant extracts: Arnica montana (Arnica), Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s wort), and Lamium album (White nettle), which complements and enhances the inhibitory action on the division and growth of hair germ cells.

Lipotrue introduced its N_llscent which immediately gets rid of the isovaleric acid smell from feet and armpits. It also showcased its Neøclair Pro, an antioxidant amplifier via NRF2/ARES pathway that offers 360º pollution protection.

Lamberti SpA exhibited its ESAFLOR® PFT, a cationic bio-based derivative of guar gum, specifically developed for clear formulations, offering light conditioning properties, ideal for volumizing and conditioning shampoos while also improving hair brightness.

Sarah Gibson, Event Director for in-cosmetics Asia, commented: “As the industry acknowledges that the transformation of the male grooming and skincare market is not merely a trend, more a cultural revolution, suppliers should look to grasp the opportunity with both hands. Today’s society is far more accepting and encouraging of self-expression and diversity, so we expect the wider personal care market we know today will look very different in the years ahead. We look forward to supporting this change at this year’s show and in the years to come.”

To learn more about the companies who exhibited at the show, visit the website

(1) https://www.blueweaveconsulting.com/report/asia-pacific-mens-grooming-products-market

[2] Asian man-nerisms: New opportunities in male grooming | Mintel

[3] Asia Pacific Men’s Grooming Products Market Size & Share Analysis – Industry Research Report – Growth Trends (mordorintelligence.com)

[4] Male Grooming & Skincare in Asia | GMO Research (gmo-research.com)

[5] How Asia trends are evolving the game of men’s beauty | Croda Personal Care

[6] https://www.timeout.com/tokyo/news/shiseido-releases-ar-makeup-filter-for-men-to-use-during-zoom-meetings-032521

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Feeling inspired to see ingredients and trends in action?

Then why not visit one of the in-cosmetics events around the world?

BROWSE SHOWS

The post Reinventing masculinity: Men’s grooming in APAC first appeared on in-cosmetics Connect.