The beauty and personal care industry is undergoing a transformative shift toward sustainability and innovation. From eco-friendly ingredients to biodegradable alternatives, companies are introducing groundbreaking solutions to meet the growing demand for cleaner, high-performance products. This article explores the latest advancements for skin care, hair care and cosmetic formulations, highlighting how brands address consumer preferences for environmentally conscious and effective solutions.
Log in to view the full article
The beauty and personal care industry is undergoing a transformative shift toward sustainability and innovation. From eco-friendly ingredients to biodegradable alternatives, companies are introducing groundbreaking solutions to meet the growing demand for cleaner, high-performance products. This article explores the latest advancements for skin care, hair care and cosmetic formulations, highlighting how brands address consumer preferences for environmentally conscious and effective solutions.
Eco-Friendly Solutions for the Skin
Cellugy x Bioli Debut Bio-based EcoFlexy Rheology Modifier in Commercial Skin Care Cream
Danish biotech company Cellugy has teamed up with skin care startup Bioli to launch a commercial line of bio-based products. This collaboration focuses on replacing traditional ingredients with an eco-friendly alternative derived from bio-fabricated cellulose.
The Moisturizing and Protecting Day Cream reportedly marks the first product to feature Cellugy's EcoFlexy, a newly developed high-performing and biodegradable rheology modifier. Derived from high-purity crystalline cellulose, the ingredient is produced through Cellugy's fermentation process.
Cellugy adds that while other natural rheology modifiers like xanthan gum are available, they often come with limitations, such as undesirable textures and lower efficacy compared to their petrochemical counterparts. Bioli’s decision to incorporate EcoFlexy is reportedly based on the ingredient's ability to provide a superior user experience and high-quality texture without compromising performance.
What's more, the cream:
- Uses 100% biodegradable ingredients and packaging
- Includes a bioactive enzyme technology for antioxidant protection
- Is specifically formulated for all skin types, including sensitive skin, per the company
Moving forward, Cellugy aims to scale-up the production of EcoFlexy and is said to be in discussions for distribution deals across eleven key cosmetics markets in the EU and the U.S., targeting a full commercial launch in early 2025.
"This product launch is just the beginning, with additional products in the pipeline set to further enhance sustainability in the skin care market," the company stated.
According to the companies, the partnership aims to address the growing concern over fossil-based petrochemicals. This means finding sustainable alternatives that do not compromise quality or customer experience.
Isabel Alvarez-Martos, Ph.D., CEO and co-founder of Cellugy, noted, "... [Cellugy and Bioli] share a common vision for a more sustainable future in skin care. In EcoFlexy, we’ve developed a solution that’s now ready to be adopted by manufacturers looking for the high performance of petrochemical rheology modifiers with the sustainability benefits of bio-based options.”
BASF Presents Sustainable CAPB Derived from Rainforest Alliance-certified Coconut Oil
Dehyton PK45 GA/RA is a readily biodegradable amphoteric surfactant designed for excellent foaming properties in shampoos, shower and bath preparations, and skin cleansers.Image by milanmarkovic78 at Adobe Stock
Dehyton PK45 GA/RA is a fatty acid amide derivative with a betaine structure (high active). The readily biodegradable amphoteric surfactant reportedly enables excellent foaming properties in:
- shampoos,
- shower and bath preparations and
- skin cleansers.
In addition, it boasts an 84% Natural Origin Index in accordance with ISO 16128.
Dehyton PK45 GA/RA is based on sustainably sourced coconut oil certified by Rainforest Alliance. According to BASF, the Rainforest Alliance certification aims to improve the livelihoods of farmers, protect forests and act against climate change.
“As society and future generations are expected to live longer, consumers feel an urge to actively impact their footprint and preserve the earth as the foundation for long and healthy living,” said Boris Gaspar, Ph.D., head of market development for BASF Personal Care EMEA.
“We support our customers by providing biodegradable alternatives to traditional ingredients, taking into account the consumer desire for responsible beauty routines.”
Grant Industries Debuts Granpowder CSC Biodegradable, High-Performance Microplastics Replacement
Grant Industries presents Granpowder CSC, a next-generation cosmetic ingredient designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable, microplastic-free alternatives in personal care. Made from food-grade cornstarch and calcium silicate, this biodegradable powder is engineered with proprietary surface-coating technology to deliver both environmental benefits and exceptional product performance.
With a silky texture and superior slip, Granpowder CSC reportedly enhances the sensory experience of skin care and color cosmetics.
It offers anti-caking properties, effective oil absorption comparable to polymethylsilsesquioxane and delivers light-diffusing, soft-focus effects for a flawless finish.
Described as versatile and easy to formulate, Granpowder CSC is applicable to a wide range of personal care applications, including skin care, sun care, hair care and makeup. It also can be incorporated into o/w, w/o and anhydrous systems, dispersing easily in oil, water or post-emulsion phases.
Beyond performance, Granpowder CSC is designed to support clean and conscious formulation goals. It is:
- biodegradable (OECD 306),
- non-GMO,
- vegan,
- palm-free,
- COSMOS approved,
- ISO 16128 certified and
- boasts a natural origin index of 1.00.
According to the company, its production results in low carbon emissions and aligns with regulatory standards such as ECHA compliance.
Granpowder CSC therefore presents a modern solution for formulators seeking to eliminate microplastics, reportedly without sacrificing quality — delivering on both sustainability and performance in one innovative ingredient.
Nouryon Introduces Three Innovations to Elevate Sustainable Hair Styling, Skin/Hair Care
Nouryon has launched three innovative ingredients designed to enhance the performance and sustainability of personal care products across skin care, hair care and aerosol applications. Each solution reflects a growing industry shift toward renewable, biodegradable materials that meet high formulation standards without compromising environmental goals.
Structure Silk: Structure Silk is a starch-derived rheology modifier that functions as a texturizer and film-former, suitable for skin care and hair styling emulsions.
Sourced from non-GMO potatoes, it offers:
- cold water solubility,
- broad pH tolerance and
- compatibility across various formulation types.
According to the company, in emulsions, it imparts high gloss and a luxurious, cushioned feel while in styling products, it enhances stiffness and improves resistance to high humidity. Its sustainability profile includes a high natural origin index (0.92), non-food competing feedstock and ready biodegradability.
Armocare Aqua 12: Armocare Aqua 12 is a non-quaternary hair conditioning agent designed to deliver strong conditioning performance while improving environmental safety. According to the company, it provides superior wet combing results compared with traditional benchmarks like BTAC, and is compatible with a wide range of hair care systems.
With a renewable carbon index above 0.9, it is:
- readily biodegradable,
- non-irritating to the eyes and
- safer for aquatic life.
It thus meets global regulatory standards and is designed according to the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry.
Demeon ReNu 100: Demeon ReNu 100 is a bio-based dimethyl ether propellant derived from renewable methanol.
Certified under the ISCC Plus system, this propellant is:
- clear,
- odorless,
- water-miscible and
- chemically stable.
According to the company, it offers controlled and consistent product delivery while significantly reducing the carbon footprint of aerosol products. Its 100% renewable carbon content reportedly is an ideal alternative for brands looking to develop cleaner, more sustainable spray systems.
Seppic Presents Natural Geltrap Technology: Evolving Emulsions
Seppic introduced a natural version of its Geltrap technology, a cold-processed gel-in-oil (g/o) emulsion system reportedly known for high water content, rich sensorial textures and versatility across cosmetic applications.
The updated version replaces synthetic emulsifiers and rheology modifiers with natural alternatives, including:
- Solagum GM, a thickening agent derived from Amorphophallus muelleri tubers, that offers moisturizing benefits and a soft, cushiony feel; and
- Fluidanov 20X, a glycolipid co-emulsifier of natural origin that reportedly stabilizes the low-oil phase while enhancing texture.
This natural Geltrap maintains the benefits of the original system, including water resistance, long-lasting fragrance in perfumed products, and improved ease of combing in hair care, the company reports.
Roquette Beauté Launches Corn-based Sustainable Powder Alternative to Synthetics
Roquette Beauté recently unveiled a new starch-derived cosmetic powder aimed at replacing mineral and synthetic alternatives. Developed from non-GMO waxy corn starch, the ingredient is designed for use in a wide range of applications, including makeup, skin care, toiletries, hair care and fragrances.
The new ingredient, Beauté by Roquette ST 305, features a porous structure created through enzymatic hydrolysis. This structure reportedly provides enhanced compaction properties and sensory performance, compared to existing natural powders. It is suitable for both loose and pressed product formats.
The company reports the ingredient delivers high color retention and stability, performing better than native corn starch and comparable to talc and porous silica beads. It also produces a whiter and less yellow appearance than other natural starch-based powders, making it appropriate for color cosmetics.
Tests of the ingredient showed:
- A 96% reduction in shine in foundation formulations,
- Comparable sebum absorption to polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and
- Smoothing of crow’s feet and improved skin texture at high inclusion levels in loose powder formulas.
The powder is readily biodegradable, non-ecotoxic and free from talc and nanoparticles, the company reports. It supports the ongoing shift in the cosmetics industry toward sustainable and cleaner label ingredients.
“We are very proud of the addition of Beauté by Roquette ST 305 to our product range,” sais Bénédicte Courel, general manager of Roquette Beauté. “We believe, it is a real game-changer and responds to the growing need for cleaner label ingredients in the cosmetics market.
"The unique sensory and compaction properties of Beauté by Roquette ST 305, as well as its affinity with various oils and water, provide cosmetic formulators with the flexibility to create high-performance products across a variety of cosmetic applications.”
Momentive Unveils Harmonie NatuVel 100% Biobased Elastomer Gel for Clean Skin, Sun and Color Formulas
Harmonie NatuVel Gel is made entirely from plant-based raw materials. The translucent, patent-pending gel is reportedly designed to offer the performance of traditional silicone elastomers in a bio-based format.Image by 58production at Adobe Stock
Harmonie NatuVel Gel was developed following the Twelve Principles of Green Chemistry and made entirely from plant-based raw materials. The translucent, patent-pending gel is reportedly designed to offer the performance of traditional silicone elastomers in a bio-based format.
The ingredient offers several key benefits for skin care, sun care and color cosmetics, including:
- Delivering soft-focus and mattifying effects with a smooth, luxurious texture,
- Reducing the oily feel of UV filters and other cosmetic ingredients, and
- Supporting pigment dispersion and w/o emulsion stability.
“Our Harmonie ... range is a symbol of Momentive’s commitment to the pursuit of a more sustainable world,” said Jose Luis Conde, vice president and global segment leader for beauty and personal care. “... We aimed for a 100% naturally derived solution that could perform on par with silicone elastomer gels and that is what we are showcasing...”
“...We have listened to our customers' requests for bio-based alternatives for ingredients that are hard to replace, such as the elastomer gels,” added Sabine Turner, leader of global naturals.
Hair and Scalp Care Ingredient Innovations
Rahn AG Debuts Yerbaluxe-Crown Conditioner and Myramaze-Pure for Scalp Restoration
Rahn AG previously described hair cycling for scalp and hair care routines, addressing the diverse and changing needs of the hair growth cycle.
"Hair cycling ... is based on the principle of skinification - where the scalp is treated with the same care as the skin. By incorporating high-quality active ingredients from skin care, the scalp is strengthened, hair follicles are nourished, and overall hair health is improved."
It continues: "At the core of this method is the cycle concept – regularly alternating between different hair care products and intensities to introduce new stimuli. This prevents over-conditioning, reduces dependency on specific cosmetic raw materials and maximizes the efficacy of active components."
According to the company, at the same time, this variation supports hair’s natural growth cycle, allowing both the scalp and hair to regenerate more effectively.
Yerbaluxe-Crown: Aligned with the principles of hair cycling, RAHN AG introduces Yerbaluxe-Crown, a versatile active ingredient designed to tackle common issues such as frizz, damaged hair and tangles.
Key features include:
- Multi-hair-type targeting: Designed to work for Type V (coily), Type III (curly), and Type I (straight) hair textures;
- Improved hair conditioning; and
- Enhanced frizz control for more manageable hair.
Applications include conditioning treatments and cleansing and shampoo formulations. 
Yerbaluxe-Crown is designed to tackle common issues such as frizz, damaged hair and tangles.Image by J Maas/peopleimages.com at Adobe Stock
Myramaze-Pure: In addition, scalp health is increasingly recognized as a key factor in overall hair vitality. Addressing this, Rahn AG introduces Myramaze-Pure described as a "groundbreaking" solution proven by clinical and in vitro studies to restore scalp resilience and hydration.
The ingredient:
- Is derived from the Myrothamnus flabellifolia, or "resurrection bush," which utilizes trehalose to repair and strengthen the scalp’s natural barrier.
- Reduces scalp erythema by 33% in rinse-off applications.
- Provides deep hydration and strengthens the scalp barrier.
- Promotes NMF and ceramide production to protect against external irritants and dehydration.
- Activates pathways related to barrier strengthening (e.g., Nrf-2) and inflammation reduction (e.g., STAT3 inhibition).
- And enhances cannabinoid CB1 receptor activity, supporting soothing effects and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Applications include scalp revival tonics, moisturizing and soothing hair care products, and anti-redness and protective scalp treatments.
This ingredient reportedly allows formulators to develop targeted products that alleviate scalp discomfort while reinforcing its health, essential for consumers dealing with dryness and irritation.
Nutricosmetic Innovations
Rahn AG Launches Yerbaluxe-Pearl Nutricosmetic Drink to ‘Biohack’ Skin Health
As is well-known, stress, environmental aggressors and lifestyle challenges often diminish skin vitality, leading to dullness and fatigue. Enter: Yerbaluxe-Pearl, an advanced nutricosmetic active energy drink derived from upcycled mate tea dust. The ingredient reportedly combines sustainable sourcing with performance-driven applications for holistic skin rejuvenation.
Benefits at a glance:
- Enriched with 13× more polyphenols, 2× more caffeine and 8× more rutin than standard mate tea; and
- Designed to oxygenate, hydrate and fortify skin by improving microcirculation and strengthening the skin barrier.
Proven benefits include:
- Boosts microcirculation by 60%,
- Enhances skin oxygenation by 40%,
- Instantly increases skin gloss by 18%,
- Improves skin hydration, firmness and elasticity while reducing wrinkles and redness,
- Tested on both Caucasian and Asian panels for short- and long-term efficacy, and
- Demonstrated improvements in mitochondrial health and ceramide production via in-vitro studies.
Applications include face and body care formulations aimed at skin energizing, anti-aging and hydration.
According to Rahn AG, formulators can cater to the growing demand for multifunctional, sustainable products with Yerbaluxe-Pearl, while achieving a radiant and evenly toned complexion.
Finzelberg Presents Agilirose Beauty Nutricosmetic
Finzelberg, a supplier of botanical extracts for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors, introduced Agilirose Beauty, an ingredient focused on skin health, at Vitafoods Europe 2025, held May 20–22 at Fira Barcelona Gran Via. In addition, the company featured a supplement for cognitive performance, a probiotic for gut health and an ingredient to support behavioral health.
Agilirose Beauty is designed for use in beauty-from-within applications and was developed to complement collagen-based supplements, supporting the firmness, structure and elasticity of skin.
The ingredient is derived from the skin of wild-growing rosehip berries, a plant material historically used for its health-promoting properties, per the company. The berries are sustainably collected, hand-picked and gently dried to preserve their bioactive compounds, including those with anti-inflammatory effects.
As consumer demand grows for ingestible skin care and products that address appearance through internal health, Finzelberg aims to provide brands with a clinically supported botanical option that enhances the effects of existing collagen formulations.
Clinical studies have shown that Agilirose Beauty can:
- strengthen the skin barrier,
- improve hydration and
- enhance protection against environmental stressors.
Finzelberg reports this makes it suitable for use in a range of skin health supplement formulations. 
Agilirose Beauty is derived from the skin of wild-growing rosehip berries, a plant material historically used for its health-promoting properties.Image by Marina at Adobe Stock
"Agilirose Beauty offers formulators an opportunity to pair traditional collagen with a botanical that adds clinically supported benefits, meeting consumer interest in more holistic beauty solutions,” explains Suarez-Rizzo.
The introduction of Agilirose Beauty reportedly marks Finzelberg’s expanded presence in the beauty-from-within space and complements its broader portfolio of plant-based ingredients targeting cognitive, digestive and emotional health.
Multifunctional Solutions
Shin-Etsu Chemical Co. Launches Silicone Tech for Hydrophilic Beauty, Microplastics Replacement
Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. has launched KF-6070W and KF-6080W silicones for hydrophilic functionality in hair, skin and makeup. In addition, KSG-16-SF and KSG-19-PF silicone elastomer gels and X-52-7162, a new modified cellulose powder, are eco-friendly alternatives to microplastics, offering the same benefits such as powderiness, increased viscosity and improved soft focus.
KF-6070W and KF-6080W: These silicones have a high affinity with water. This effect was achieved by replacing some of the methyl groups in the molecular structure of dimethyl silicone oil (INCI: Dimethicone) with hydrophilic functional groups.
Despite the replacement of some methyl groups, both materials retain the desired characteristics of silicone, including high fluidity and smooth, non-sticky feel, according to Shin-Etsu.
KF-6070W is a water-soluble silicone wax with smooth melting and spreading on the skin. It can be applied as a feel enhancer in water-based and o/w hair care, skin care and base makeup products.
KF-6080W, on the other hand, is a silicone emulsifier for o/w formulations with reduced stickiness and a smooth texture. The material is liquid at room temperature, making it suitable for cold processing, per Shin-Etsu.
KF-6070W is a water-soluble silicone wax with a smooth melting and spreading sensation on the skin that can be applied as a feel enhancer in water-based and o/w hair care, skin care and base makeup products.J Maas/peopleimages.com at Adobe Stock
KSG-16-SF (INCI: Dimethicone (and) Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer): has reportedly been optimized to provide maximum soft-focus and line blurring effects to hide wrinkles and small imperfections. It delivers a silky skin feeling, can support thickening, and offers good compatibility with silicones.
KSG-19-PF (INCI: Dimethicone (and) Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer): has been fine-tuned to provide a powdery sensation to skin care and makeup, and provides a matte effect that reduces shine. It also can serve as a thickening agent and has good compatibility with silicones.
Finally, X-52-7162 (INCI: Cellulose (and) Silica (and) Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer): is a modified cellulose powder featuring spherical particles with silicone rubber and silica coating on the surface. It offers reduced friction and hardness, compared with standard cellulose particles, and has a smooth (soft) feel. It provides soft-focus effects and helps to minimize wrinkles, pores and other skin issues for a smooth and natural look.
Sensitive Skin
Seppic Presents Ganocalm: A Natural Solution for Sensitive Skin
Ganocalm is an active ingredient developed to address the needs of sensitive skin, an increasingly common concern among global consumers, the company reports. Sourced from Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi), an adaptogenic mushroom traditionally used in Chinese medicine, Ganocalm approaches sensitive skin from three angles:
- Modulating the activation of sensory receptors (in vitro) and reducing stinging by 15.6× vs. placebo after 5 min of application (in vivo);
- Limiting local inflammation (in vitro) and reducing redness by 2.5× times vs. placebo within the first hour of application (in vivo); and
- Strengthening the skin barrier (in vitro) and increasing skin hydration by 1.3× vs. placebo after one hour (in vivo).
Ganocalm is COSMOS certified and NaTrue approved with 100% naturalness according to the ISO 16128 norm. It is also halal certified and compliant with Chinese regulations (IECSC and IECIC).
