As regulatory pressure on personal care products intensifies and consumer demand for sustainable beauty options grows, brands must deliver exceptional performance alongside verifiable sustainability attributes — such as ingredient biodegradability.
Performance Meets Regulatory Readiness
Leveraging more than a century of expertise in cellulosic technology, Eastman developed Esmeri CC1N10, an innovative, biodegradable1 micropowder that meets the challenge head on. It complies with the robust European Commission’s regulation on synthetic polymer microparticles while delivering the high-performance optical and sensory benefits desired by formulators and consumers.
Designed to elevate texture, color payoff and finish, Esmeri CC1N10 represents the next generation of biodegradable ingredients specifically developed for color cosmetics.
Esmeri CC1N10 is readily biodegradable in freshwater according to OECD 301B guidelines, non-nano2 and engineered to perform across a variety of color cosmetic applications. Produced from 63% sustainably sourced wood pulp,3 its naturally derived microstructure delivers superior, long-lasting optical effects, enhanced sensory appeal, and improved application evenness — qualities that empower brands to achieve both their performance and sustainability goals.
“We focused on two critical factors,” said Marty Boykin, Director of Care Solutions & SFE Technology Division at Eastman. “First, ensuring the proprietary cellulose ester composition consistently breaks down readily in freshwater environments. Second, making sure that the micropowder delivers the optical and sensory properties consumers and formulators expect from color cosmetic ingredients.”
The unique properties of Esmeri CC1N10 enhance performance by optimally scattering light and filling fine lines to create a smooth, even effect across multiple applications:
- Lipsticks: Improved color intensity for a long-lasting, smoother application and greater evenness of coverage.
- Liquid foundations: A desirable soft-focus, mattifying effect that diminishes imperfections for a smooth, even finish.
- Pressed powders: Optimal compaction and pick-up that deliver a beautiful, photo-finished appearance.
To see Esmeri CC1N10 in action and explore its sensorial and sustainability attributes, watch the video here.
1 Biodegradable per Commission regulation (EU) 2023/2055 relating to synthetic polymer microparticles
2 Non-nano per Commission recommendation (2022/C 229/01)
3 Wood pulp sourced from forests certified by the PEFC™ and FSC®.
The Rising Pressure on Beauty Brands
As the EU moves to eliminate intentionally added microplastics in cosmetics, beauty brands are reimagining formulations and investing in R&D to identify high‑performing, innovative alternatives.
Eastman’s own consumer insights research underscores the urgency of this shift. In a study of nearly 4,000 women across six countries, 90% of the participants in the U.S. and 89% of participants in Europe said they would try a new brand that they have never used before if it offered products containing biodegradable microbeads. Respondents also cited issues such as product application, appearance and long wear as key performance challenges they experienced with their current products. Consumers want beauty products that are safe to use and are ready for biodegradable solutions that do not compromise the quality or sensorial experience they love.
Shaping the Future of Color Cosmetics
With new regulations taking hold and consumer expectations evolving, the ability to provide formulators with agile solutions to develop high-performing formulations will define the next generation of sustainable beauty innovations. To support brands and formulators on that journey, Eastman provides ingredient innovations, technical guidance, formulation insights and transparent, verifiable performance data to meet environmental and performance expectations.
Esmeri CC1N10 embodies Eastman’s commitment to uniting performance and sustainability. By combining biodegradability, safety and sensorial refinement, it empowers brands to deliver high-impact, color cosmetics that reflect where the beauty industry — and its consumers — are headed next.
To learn more about Esmeri CC1N10 and explore formulation concepts, visit the Esmeri campaign page here.
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