This is not a new philosophy, in fact, over several years several people, from celebrities to dermatologists, have mentioned this as an approach to skincare and makeup to be more in touch with our skin.

As consumers are becoming more aware of climate change, sustainability, and the environment, they are also becoming more aware of what goes on their skin and into their bodies. And here’s an interesting fact that they’ve come to understand: replacing synthetic ingredients with compatible, natural ingredients and using just what is necessary for the hair and skin instead of taking on a whole plethora of products.

Skinimalism

The minimalism movement inspires skinimalism with its focus on a “less is more” approach toward material possessions and has become a lifestyle for many people. 

An inclination toward a “less is more” philosophy in makeup and skincare, commonly known as “skinimalism,” focuses on improving skin health through diligent skincare practices, emphasizing hydration, and choosing lightweight, breathable makeup products.

Individuals are increasingly embracing their natural skin, favoring minimal makeup aesthetics. 

Multifunctional ingredients as a part of skinimalism

This has introduced multifunctional ingredients into products – ingredients that can give multiple benefits when used in a product for skincare, essentially cutting down on non-necessary ingredients.

With skinimalism on the rise, there has also been a demand coming up for multifunctional ingredients. 

Skincare and self-care

In recent years, a lot of light has been shed on mental health and its correlation with physical health. With the growing importance of understanding and practicing good mental health through therapy, meditation, spirituality, and many other forms, has also come about the concept of accepting and celebrating one’s attributes, and caring for them.

Self-care then, in one way, comes out through skincare, haircare, and makeup – tackling concerns like acne and aging – and finding ingredients and ultimately products that work for your body and help take care of your skin, inside out.

Certain concerns are very prevalent today and are top-of-the-mind for consumers, to which they strive to find the right solutions.

Biggest skincare concerns for consumers today

1. Anti-aging: Consumers are increasingly seeking skincare products and treatments that target signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. 
2. Acne and Blemishes: Acne and blemishes remain a common concern for consumers of all ages, with many seeking effective solutions to combat breakouts, reduce inflammation, and minimize the appearance of acne scars. Demand for acne-fighting ingredients and products continues to be strong. 
3. Hyperpigmentation and Uneven Skin Tone: Uneven skin tone, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation are prevalent skincare concerns, particularly among those with sun-damaged skin or skin of color. 
4. Sensitive Skin and Irritation: Sensitivity issues, including redness, irritation, and allergic reactions, are significant concerns for consumers with sensitive or reactive skin. There is a growing demand for gentle, hypoallergenic skincare products formulated with soothing ingredients to calm and protect sensitive skin. 
5. Dryness and Dehydration: Dry skin is a common skincare concern, exacerbated by factors such as harsh weather, indoor heating, and frequent hand washing. Consumers seek hydrating skincare solutions, including moisturizers, serums, and masks, to replenish moisture and restore skin barrier function. 
6. Environmental Damage and Pollution: With increasing awareness of environmental factors such as pollution, UV radiation, and blue light from electronic devices, consumers are looking for skincare products that offer protection against environmental damage and help strengthen the skin’s natural defenses. 
7. Green, natural skincare: There is a growing preference for clean, natural, and non-toxic skincare products, driven by concerns about ingredient safety, environmental sustainability, and personal health. Consumers seek transparency in labeling and formulations free from potentially harmful ingredients such as parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.

Tackling skincare concerns with Innovative Technology

Consumers are interested in skincare innovations that harness advanced technologies such as peptides, stem cells, probiotics, and biotechnology to address specific concerns and deliver visible results. Demand for cutting-edge ingredients and formulations continues to drive product development. 

Now, what if you could tackle skincare concerns with innovative technology that could focus on skinimalism, i.e. multifunctional ingredients for product formulations?

Polymers play a vital role in the personal care industry, contributing to the texture, stability, and performance of items like shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and cosmetics. Their use enables the industry to create innovative products that meet consumer demands for efficacy, aesthetics, and functionality while ensuring stability and shelf life. For e.g. synthetic polymers like polyethylene glycols (PEGs), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and acrylic polymers are commonly used as emulsifying, thickening, and stabilising agents, allowing formulations to maintain consistency. Polymers like silicones are prized for their ability to impart a smooth, silky feel and act as a protective barrier to the skin or hair.

A sustainable alternative: advanced biopolymers

Biopolymers, then, provide a sustainable, natural alternative to synthetic ingredients in products and exhibit excellent bioactivities. They can be extracted from nature from sources like renewable feedstock or as by-products from waste streams.

The con to using biopolymers has been the lack of performance on par with their synthetic counterparts, and compatibility issues.

Greenitio, with its AI-based platform technology, has not only developed biopolymers that exhibit higher performance and compatibility but has also unlocked ingredients that are multifunctional, providing solutions to skincare concerns like acne and aging, moisturization, and UV protection. 

Tackling acne, aging, UV protection, and other skin concerns with advanced multifunctional biopolymers

Chitosan is a unique and special biopolymer for several reasons, making it a valuable ingredient in various personal care products. Plant-based chitosan is derived typically from fungal sources such as mushrooms. These fungi produce chitosan-like compounds without the need for crustacean shells from animals.

If you’re interested you can learn more about vegan chitosan, which we dove into depth on our blog on vegan chitosan here. 

Plant-based chitosan derivatives are extremely tough to produce but offer multiple benefits for products in the cosmetics and personal care space. Unlocking the potential of vegan chitosan represents a pioneering venture in the realm of sustainable and cruelty-free skincare.

Greenitio, with its platform technology has unlocked these benefits through its products Chitobela and Chitobe.

Chitobela and Chitobe: An overview

Chitobela and Chitobe find applications in skincare, haircare, and sunscreen protection. These versatile ingredients, complemented by their bioactivities and environmental benefits, offer multifunctional properties such as: 

Chitobela

• Use cases: Moisturising, emulsifiers, thickeners 
• Bioactivity: Anti-microbial, anti aging, anti-acne 
• Applications: Skincare and haircare products 

Chitobela can be used in a variety of personal care products such as creams specialising in anti-aging and anti-acne treatments, lotions, serums, shampoos, and many more.

Chitobe

• Use cases: Film forming and conditioning 
• Bioactivity: Anti-microbial, anti-acne, antioxidant 
• Applications: Skincare, haircare, and sunscreen products 

Chitobe can be used in a variety of beauty products such as sunscreens, hair masks, conditioners, serums, lotions, creams specialising in anti-acne treatments, and many more.

Advancing self-care through multifunctional ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products

Advancing self-care with multifunctional ingredients is a transformative approach in modern skincare, offering consumers innovative solutions that streamline their beauty routines while delivering effective results and meeting consumer demands. Multifunctional ingredients are versatile powerhouses that offer multiple benefits in a single product, allowing consumers to address multiple skincare concerns with simplicity and efficiency. By incorporating these ingredients into skincare formulations, brands can empower consumers to achieve their skincare goals more effectively while maximizing convenience and simplicity in their daily routines. Advancements in ingredient technology are driving innovations for natural products, offering consumers even more options to customize their self-care rituals and achieve healthy, radiant skin.

Are you a brand looking to incorporate high-performance, multifunctional ingredients into your products? We’ve made it easier for you to access the information and resources you need here:

• For more information, please visit Greenitio here
• To schedule a free consultation, please reach out here
• To request a sample, please reach out here
• For more knowledge, please visit our resources page here
• You can learn more about our products here and technology here

Biopolymers in cosmetics and personal care products

In the personal care industry, natural biopolymers sourced from plants, algae, and microorganisms are gaining prominence due to their biodegradability, low environmental impact, and diverse functionality.

Some examples of biopolymers include:

• Hydrocolloids such as xanthan gum and guar gum extracted from plants
• Alginate derived from brown seaweeds, for skincare products. 
• Chitosan, derived from chitin found in crustacean shells, is gaining traction in hair care formulations. Vegan chitosan can be derived from fungal sources.

Several more biopolymers such as cellulose and pectin are being adopted in the industry.

What makes vegan chitosan unique in the beauty industry?

Chitosan is a unique and special biopolymer for several reasons, making it a valuable ingredient in various personal care products. Traditional chitosan is derived from chitin, a natural polysaccharide found in the exoskeletons of crustaceans like shrimp and crabs. 

Plant-based chitosan, which we’ll be talking about in the upcoming sections, is derived typically from fungal sources such as mushrooms. These fungi produce chitosan-like compounds without the need for crustacean shells.

Here are some characteristics that make chitosan special: 

1. Biodegradability: Chitosan is biodegradable and environmentally friendly, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials.
2. Biocompatibility: Chitosan exhibits excellent biocompatibility with human tissues. This property makes it suitable for use in biomedical and personal care applications without causing irritation or adverse reactions on the skin. Vegan chitosan, especially, is suitable for consumers who are vegan or looking to adopt sustainable vegan products in their lifestyles.
3. Positive charge and film-forming capabilities: Vegan chitosan retains the positive charge and film-forming properties inherent to chitosan. This makes it valuable in personal care formulations, contributing to improved adhesion, conditioning, and film-forming capabilities in products like hair conditioners and skincare items.
4. Inherent Antimicrobial Activity: Vegan chitosan possesses inherent antimicrobial properties, a quality attributed to the positively charged amino groups in the chitosan molecule, which can interact with negatively charged microbial cell membranes. It has demonstrated effectiveness against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, making it suitable for extending shelf life.
5. Reduced Allergenic Concerns: An additional advantage of vegan chitosan is its reduced likelihood of causing allergic reactions, making it a preferred choice for individuals with shellfish allergies. This addresses a common concern associated with chitosan derived from crustacean sources.
6. Preservative Properties: In skincare formulations and cosmetic products, vegan chitosan can serve as a natural preservative. By inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi, it helps maintain the integrity of the product over time, reducing the need for synthetic preservatives that may raise concerns among consumers.
7. Improved Hair Condition: In hair care products, chitosan’s positive charge allows it to adhere to the hair surface, leading to enhanced conditioning effects. It can improve the texture and manageability of hair, making it a valuable component in conditioners and styling products. 
8. Applications in Personal Care: Vegan chitosan’s antimicrobial properties are particularly beneficial in personal care products like creams, lotions, and serums. It contributes to product preservation, ensuring that these formulations remain free from microbial contamination and safe for consumer use.
9. Sustainable Sourcing: Vegan chitosan offers a more ethical and sustainable sourcing option compared to animal-derived chitosan. Avoiding crustacean shells reduces the environmental impact associated with the seafood industry and aligns with cruelty-free practices.

The potential of biopolymers

Natural biopolymers have found it difficult to gain wide acceptance in the beauty industry due to their limiting inherent properties. While they are the most natural and sustainable alternative to synthetic polymers, natural biopolymers, in their primary form, cannot match the performance, efficacy, and physical properties that synthetic polymers exhibit.

Greenitio, a company producing high-performance, cost-effective biopolymer derivatives as eco-friendly alternatives to petrochemical ingredients, has been able to unlock the potential of vegan chitosan to bring to consumers at large the benefits of biopolymer derivatives.

Unlocking the potential of vegan chitosan

Unlocking the potential of vegan chitosan represents a pioneering venture in the realm of sustainable and cruelty-free skincare. 

Greenitio, using computer simulations and green chemistry has designed and synthesized vegan chitosan-based biopolymer derivatives that have unlocked its potential, putting it on par with relative synthetic ingredients.

The three facets of Greenitio’s sustainable products

1. Bio-based and biodegradable: Using vegan chitosan derived from mushrooms, Greenitio’s biopolymer derivatives are bio-based, bio-active, and bio-degradable. 
2. Green chemistry and bio-like process: By replacing chemical processes with bio-like processes, Greenitio’s process also uses fewer resources and wastes less energy. Free from toxic chemicals, the products are also non-GMO.
3. Additional multi-functional properties: Greenitio has unlocked the power and potential of vegan chitosan by using its inherent properties and unlocking additional multi-functional properties such as anti-aging and sunscreen-boosting properties. 

Plant-based chitosan derivatives are extremely tough to produce, but offer multiple benefits for brands in the cosmetics and personal care space:

1. Reduced supply chain burden: When just one ingredient can impart several properties to a product, there are fewer ingredients to be used, effectively reducing the complexity of brands’ supply chain
2. Readily biodegradable: The complete biodegradability of biopolymers, especially vegan chitosan, makes products safe from an environmental and health perspective.
3. Enhanced transparency and sustainability: Biopolymers offer a more ethical and sustainable sourcing option, even more so when they are plant-based. Add to that its biodegradability and biocompatibility features to contribute to a circular economy.
4. Unlocking additional properties is the bonus that brands and consumers have been waiting for – this helps products have multiple properties in one, reducing the layers that go on the skin and embracing a “less is more” approach that is favoured by consumers. Anti-aging effects and sunscreen-boosting capabilities in one product mark a promising avenue in the development of next-generation skincare solutions. 
5. Greener production process: Greenitio’s bio-like processes replace chemical synthesis and production processes.

Introducing Chitobela and Chitobe

From Greenitio’s efforts to change the world one ingredient at a time, have come two products: chitobela and chitobe.

Chitobela 

Chitobela is a vegan chitosan-derived biopolymer developed for skincare and haircare products. 

Its bioactive properties fight off microbes, aging, and acne, giving skin and hair a rejuvenated look and feel. Its use cases include applications such as moisturising, emulsifiers, and thickeners. 

It also provides enhanced bioactivity with anti-microbial, anti-aging, and anti-acne properties.

Chitobe

Chitobe is a vegan chitosan-derived versatile biopolymer developed for skincare, haircare, and sunscreen product applications. It is complemented by its nourishing effects and film-forming capabilities and ensures comprehensive care with UV protection boosting. 

It has use cases in film forming and conditioning applications and provides enhanced bioactivity with anti-microbial, anti-acne, and antioxidant properties.

With restrictions being placed on the ingredients that can be used in cosmetics and personal care products, ingredients such as chitobela and chitobe offer excellent alternatives, being:

Advancing sustainable beauty with chitobela and chitobe

As the demand for eco-friendly and cruelty-free cosmetics continues to rise, Greenitio has successfully unlocked the potential of vegan chitosan biopolymer derivatives with enhanced multi-functional properties. These derivatives not only offer effective benefits such as moisturization, anti-aging, and acne-fighting properties but also serve as natural preservatives and sunscreen boosters. 

With products like Chitobela and Chitobe, biopolymer derivatives are poised to revolutionize the cosmetics industry, providing consumers with sustainable, ethical, and high-performance alternatives for their skincare needs.

We invite you to learn more about Chitobela and Chitobe HERE and explore how Greenitio is helping change the world – one ingredient at a time.

Are you a brand looking to adopt enhanced yet natural ingredients for your formulations? Please feel free to reach out to Greenitio HERE and request a sample.

As consumers increasingly seek personalized and science-backed solutions, the intersection of technology and nature is poised to revolutionize skincare routines. 

Here are key trends that will shape skincare products and routines in the coming months:

1. Inclusivity and Diversity: 

The significance of inclusivity and diversity is resonating within the skincare industry. A heightened emphasis is being placed on the development of products that cater to a diverse array of skin tones and types. 

Marketing and advertising strategies are transforming, with a commitment to more genuine and varied representation. Consumers, in their pursuit of authenticity and inclusivity, will be drawn to brands that embrace a wide spectrum of beauty standards and foster a sense of belonging. 

The definition of beauty will further broaden to encompass a more diverse range of skin colors, ages, genders, and backgrounds, giving way to personalised skincare. 

2. Personalised skincare: 

Recognising different skin types, allergens, etc. has given way to a future of personalised skincare. In recent years, the rise of indie brands and several product lines focused on specific skin types and ingredients have come up, enhancing inclusive and health-friendly routines. 

The integration of advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning is revolutionising the industry by offering consumers customized skincare recommendations tailored to their unique skin type, concerns, and lifestyle factors. 

The emergence of applications and devices designed to analyze individual skin conditions, track changes over time, and propose personalized product regimens is anticipated. The accessibility of tailored products, meticulously formulated to meet individual needs, is expected to rise, ushering in a truly bespoke skincare experience. 

This shift towards personalization marks a significant departure from generic skincare routines of the past, eliminating the reliance on mass-produced products that may not cater to specific needs. Instead, technology is set to empower consumers, enabling them to make well-informed choices about their skincare and ensuring optimal results.

3. Science-based evidenced ingredients: 

Advancements in scientific research are propelling skincare formulations into a realm of increasing sophistication, unveiling the intricacies of skin biology. There will be a surge of products that will include science-backed ingredients meticulously designed to target specific skin concerns. 

A notable focal point in this evolution is the rise of microbiome-focused skincare. Recognizing the pivotal role played by the skin microbiome—the community of microorganisms residing on the skin—products supporting a balanced and diverse skin microbiome are set to gain widespread popularity. 

The utilization of peptides in skincare stands as another promising avenue of development. These short chains of amino acids exhibit efficacy in addressing various skin issues, such as diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Key ingredients to be replaced in this area are non-renewable ingredients like synthetic polymers. Synthetic polymers, derived from fossil fuels, are used in cosmetic and personal care products and impart several properties such as functionality, texture, etc. While they are useful, they are harmful to health and the environment. are a natural alternative that can replace synthetic polymers and provide biodegradability and other properties.

However, most biopolymers currently aren’t as effective as synthetic polymers. This is why high-performance, high-quality, readily biodegradable natural polymers, backed by science and technology, are a necessity and an effective bio-alternative. has developed such biopolymers, aided by AI, proprietary technology, and green chemistry, for cosmetics and personal care products.

The intersection of skincare and genomics is also a dynamic area worthy of attention. The prospect of personalized beauty routines based on genetic profiles may well represent the future of skincare.

Ongoing research is also uncovering new biopolymers, their potential benefits, and their effective use to ensure their integration into a diverse array of skincare products. 

4. Sustainability and eco-friendly products: 

Sustainability has emerged as an influential driving factor across diverse industries, driving consumer purchase decisions. The skincare sector is no exception – in the year 2024 and beyond, consumer expectations will center around eco-friendly and sustainable skincare products, prompting an industry-wide shift. 

This transformation includes innovative packaging solutions, such as refillable containers and the adoption of biodegradable materials, along with a growing demand for cruelty-free and vegan formulations. Brands are under escalating pressure to curtail their carbon footprint, reduce waste, and commit to ethically sourcing ingredients. 

In the coming years, sustainability will become an indispensable standard for skincare brands. The concept of sustainability within skincare is nuanced, extending beyond the environmental impact of products to encompass ethical considerations like fair labor practices and responsible ingredient sourcing. A particularly promising trend in this landscape is the adoption of eco-friendly, plant-based, and biodegradable ingredients, such as . 

Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of their lifestyles – from what they’re eating to what they’re putting on their skin. This has ignited an interest in the raw materials, and the ingredients being used in skincare products, contributing to health and well-being as well as environmental well-being.

5. Tech-enabled skincare: 

The integration of technology into skincare routines is becoming increasingly profound, with the use of technologies like AR/VR, AI, and smart devices. E.g. smart mirrors and skin scanners are poised to provide real-time data on skin condition, empowering users to make well-informed decisions regarding their skincare regimen. The adoption of telemedicine and health consultation platforms is extending to dermatology, facilitating remote consultations with skincare professionals. 

Augmented reality (AR) applications will enable consumers to virtually try on skincare products, facilitating informed decisions before purchase. This immersive experience enhances the online shopping journey, alleviating uncertainties associated with buying skincare products without in-person testing. Artificial intelligence (AI) is slated to play a significant role in skincare diagnostics and recommendations, giving rise to personalised diagnostics and routines.

6. Exosomes: 

Exosomes are nanovesicles discharged by stem cells. These minute structures have demonstrated superior penetration into the skin, enhanced absorption capabilities, and a unique ability to shield skincare actives. Once absorbed, they emulate the body’s innate healing mechanisms and exhibit effectiveness in addressing concerns such as pigmentation, rosacea, lines, wrinkles, and the visible signs of scars. Exosomes are notably prevalent in the realm of microneedling, where a specialized treatment is employed to deliver concentrated stem cells deep into the layers of the skin.

7. Skinimalism: 

The minimalism movement is focused on a “less is more” approach toward material possessions and has become a lifestyle for many people. There is also an inclination toward a “less is more” philosophy in makeup and skincare, commonly known as “skinimalism,” which is expected to further ascend in popularity throughout 2024. Individuals are increasingly embracing their natural skin, favoring minimal makeup aesthetics. The focus will revolve around improving skin health through diligent skincare practices, emphasizing hydration, and choosing lightweight, breathable makeup products.

8. Hair care: 

Body care has long been a focus for beauty, and along with skincare, hair care is also becoming a focus for consumers. While there aren’t elaborate routines for hair care, there has been an emergence of products targeting specific conditions and hair types. Traditional practices are also finding a resurgence, such as oiling the hair before a shower, majorly done in India, or the trend of rinsing hair with rice water, done in several parts of Asia. The connection between good, healthy hair and scalp care is also linked to the effects on the condition of the skin. Improper hair care can lead to various skin problems due to the accumulation of dirt, oil, and pollutants, ranging from acne to infections. 

Surfactants are essential components in shampoos, playing a crucial role in cleansing by reducing the surface tension of water and allowing it to spread more easily. Common surfactants in shampoos include sodium lauryl sulfate and ammonium lauryl sulfate. While these surfactants effectively remove dirt, oil, and product residues from the hair, they have adverse effects. The potentially harmful effects of surfactants in shampoos include scalp irritation, dryness, and increased sensitivity, especially for those with pre-existing skin conditions. Additionally, certain sulfate-based surfactants have been associated with stripping natural oils from the hair, leading to increased brittleness and reduced moisture retention. 

To mitigate these concerns, many consumers are turning to sulfate-free and milder surfactant formulations in search of gentler alternatives that maintain hair health while minimizing potential side effects. , which are bio-based and biodegradable alternatives to traditional surfactants, are also gaining traction.

9. Self-care and self-love: 

In recent years, there has been a spotlight on mental health problems, especially problems, and perceptions towards one’s body, skin, and hair. Acceptance of diverse skin tones and types, hair types, and body types is leading to more inclusive beauty. 

“Skincare is self-care” is both a trend and a mechanism, furthering the acceptance of one’s physical features and promoting self-love and care.

The way forward

In recent years, more attention has been paid to holistic well-being, from the food we eat to the material of our clothes, to what we’re putting on our skin. This concept of well-being is reflected in the beauty industry as well, with a holistic approach to products – from natural polymer derivatives to evolving hair care and looking at evidence-based ingredients. The key here has been the advancement of research and technology, leading to a fusion of nature and technology for several applications, as well as the concern about sustainability from consumers. Minimalism in beauty and self-care is being reflected in these trends.

In the modern day and world of living, we have many items that allow us convenience and comfort. A lot of these items ranging from plastic products to unseen ingredients in our skincare items contain synthetic polymers, which impart properties like convenience, durability, versatility, and functionality to the products. For a long time, synthetic polymers allowed us to manufacture products that provided us the ability to live better lives and boosted the economy. Now, we’re facing consequences from the other side of the coin.

Synthetic and natural polymers

Polymers are repeating chains of monomer units that bind our material world and are synthetic or natural. Synthetic polymers are man made and fossil fuel based. Examples include nylon, polyethylene, polyester, Teflon, and formulations in everyday products. Natural polymers occur in nature, can be extracted, and are often water-based. Examples of naturally occurring polymers are silk, wool, DNA, cellulose and proteins. 

The backbone of everyday life

Synthetic polymers have been engineered by scientists and engineers and form the backbone of several items in our everyday life, including plastics and microplastics. Micro plastics are tiny pieces of plastics which are intentionally added to products to impart properties like functionality or versatility to the product, for e.g., microbeads which impart exfoliating properties to scrubs. They are used in various industries such as in the personal and home care industry, and also have applications in agriculture and packaging. Another way they can also occur is when larger plastic items break down in the environment.

Synthetic polymers, among their many other properties, are engineered for their durability, which means that products made from these items can persist in the environment for a long time even after we are done using them. Since they are smaller particles of less than 5mm, microplastics can’t be detected by our current water treatment systems in most places, and end up being washed down into our aquatic systems. Their presence doesn’t stop there – they find their way up the food chain to higher level organisms like humans. 

Not only do synthetic polymers pose an environmental problem, but they also pose economical and health problems.

Polymers in cosmetics and personal care industry

Polymers play a vital role in the personal care industry, serving as versatile and multifunctional ingredients in various products, and contributing to the texture, stability, and performance of items like shampoos, conditioners, lotions and cosmetics. Their use enables the industry to create innovative products that meet consumer demands for efficacy, aesthetics and functionality while ensuring stability and shelf life. For e.g. synthetic polymers like polyethylene glycols (PEGs), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and acrylic polymers are commonly used as emulsifying, thickening and stabilising agents, allowing formulations to maintain consistency. Polymers like silicones are prized for their ability to impart a smooth, silky feel and act as a protective barrier to the skin or hair.

Sustainability trends in the cosmetics and personal care industry

Sustainability in cosmetics and personal care products has become a focal point due to their large carbon footprint, emissions, and their relevance to our everyday life. However, there are trends that have emerged driven by consumer demand for environmentally conscious products:

1. Green chemistry and clean formulations: There’s a growing emphasis on clean and green formulations – brands are opting for safer, non-toxic ingredients reducing or eliminating harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates and phthalates in their products. Although green chemistry principles are being employed to develop products with minimal environmental and personal impact at all stages, from sourcing to disposal, mass adoption of such products has not yet been possible.
2. Circular packaging initiatives: Brands are rethinking packaging to minimize waste, involving reducing use of single use plastics, adopting recyclable or biodegradable materials and designing refillable or reusable packaging.
3. Increased transparency and traceability: Consumers are becoming increasingly aware and interested in what goes into the products that they use. Efforts are being made to increase and improve transparency and traceability of products.
4. Reducing carbon footprint: Companies are committing to reducing their carbon footprint by optimizing manufacturing processes, utilising renewable energy solutions, and investing in carbon offset programs. 
5. Water conservation, biodiversity, and ethical sourcing: Efforts are being made to reduce water usage in formulations and production processes, as it has a big impact in the industry. Special focus is also being put on responsibly and ethically sourcing ingredients, investing in fair trade practices, and ensuring sustainable practices.
6. Innovative technologies: Advancements in technology, such as micro encapsulation and biodegradable alternatives, are driving sustainable innovation. Microencapsulation allows for controlled release of active ingredients, reducing waste and enhancing product effectiveness. Bio-based and biodegradable polymers, serving as an alternative to traditional, synthetic ingredients, are gaining traction for their eco-friendliness as well as their skin friendliness in everyday use.
7. Social responsibility and animal welfare: Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of ethical practices, including cruelty free and vegan products. Brand are pledging to be cruelty free, and are using alternative methods of testing  to ensure the safety of their products without harming animals.

Beyond ingredients, to formulations 

Among the several trends we saw in the industry, one in particular has gained traction – the shift towards incorporating natural and organic ingredients in products. However, the problem doesn’t just stop at ingredients but extends to formulations – and here’s where synthetic polymers come into play. Synthetic polymers, used in formulations to maintain consistency and provide stability are relatively cheaper than natural alternatives. Moreover, their interaction with our skin and hair and being washed away into our aquatic systems means they can make their way up the food chain and have serious health and toxic repercussions on humans and other living beings.  According to Business of Fashion, there are some 24,000 formulations in the cosmetics industry that currently have no ready alternatives, green or otherwise.

What effect does it have on business?

Recognizing the present and future threat that microplastics and synthetic polymers pose to life, several countries and organisations are coming up with their own plans and bans to phase out their use. Several laws like the ban on microplastics and synthetic polymers under REACH in the EU and the UN ban on plastics including synthetic polymers are already coming into effect, which will have a huge impact on the cosmetics and personal care industries. An estimated 13 billion USD are estimated to be lost in revenue due to lack of ready formulations.

Natural polymers: an alternative to traditional ingredients

Natural polymers and derivatives are an alternative to synthetic polymers that take us back to nature for inspiration and wisdom. Natural polymers can be extracted from nature from sources like renewable feedstock, or as by-products from waste streams. For e.g. natural polymers like cellulose derivatives and chitosan can be used in skincare and cosmetics items as thickeners, emulsifiers, stabilisers and for their moisturising properties. Other natural polymers like proteins (e.g. soy or whey proteins) can be used in shampoos, conditioners, and hair treatments to strengthen hair stands and improve texture. 

By using biological and sustainable processes to manufacture natural polymers, they become both bio-based and biodegradable. Sustainable manufacturing processes offer numerous benefits such as resource efficiency, waste reduction and recycling, carbon footprint reduction, water conservation and regulatory compliance. Several processes and technology being developed and optimised can be easily integrated into current manufacturing infrastructure, with little to no additional expenditure. These processes also have lower GHG emissions and carbon footprint relative to processes for synthetic polymer manufacturing due to use of renewable raw material sources, lesser energy-intensive processes, biodegradability and positive end-of-life impact, and reduced chemical use.

Advanced natural polymers can accelerate the sustainability transition

By developing advanced natural polymers, such as the products developed by Greenitio, we can help mimic and maintain several of the properties that synthetic polymers provide, in a natural way. This can help propel companies’ adoption of natural polymers, helping them accelerate their transition to sustainable materials. Natural polymers can form the alternative for several specialty chemical formulations in the market.