Sustainable cosmetic formulations are becoming essential in the cosmetics industry and personal care industry due to growing consumer awareness around environmental sustainability. Companies are now focusing on ingredient transparency, sustainable packaging, and the use of biodegradable raw materials. Sustainable practices in product development not only reduce the environmental footprint but also support the move toward clean beauty and eco-friendly ingredients. This shift is driving changes in both raw material selection and the cosmetic formulation process.
Defining sustainable ingredients in cosmetics
Sustainable ingredients are defined by their minimal impact on the environment throughout sourcing, use, and disposal. This includes biodegradable ingredients, bio-based ingredients, and those derived through green chemistry. According to standards like ISO 16128, sustainable cosmetic formulation involves evaluating ingredient origins, shelf life, and the overall sustainability criteria. Using natural origin and bio-based surfactants over petrochemical-derived ingredients helps reduce harm to ecosystems while supporting the goals of a circular economy.
Examples of natural and upcycled cosmetic ingredients
A wide range of natural ingredients and upcycled ingredients are now utilized in cosmetics products to reduce waste and enhance the functionality of formulations. Some notable examples include:
Coffee grounds – reused in exfoliants, rich in caffeic acid and phenolic acids
Fruit stone powders – biodegradable abrasives for scrubs
Olive skin – a source of ellagic acid and punicic acid
Flaxseed crops – high in antioxidants and used in skincare products
Microbial fermentation – a sustainable method for producing hyaluronic acid and other active ingredients
These natural materials support ingredient stability and enhance the functionality of skincare ingredients, particularly in waterless products and sustainable skincare.
Green chemistry and biotechnology in ingredient sourcing
The use of green chemistry and microbial fermentation platforms has significantly changed how cosmetic ingredients are produced. Instead of relying on palm (kernel) oil or other resource-intensive raw materials, biotech offers a way to create high-quality ingredients with reduced environmental footprint. Fermentation is increasingly used for the development of multifunctional ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ascorbic acid, and other bioactives. This approach also benefits the upcycling industry, contributing to more sustainable personal care ingredients.
Packaging and delivery systems for sustainable products
Sustainable cosmetic formulations go beyond the ingredients themselves. Packaging materials also play a crucial role in reducing the impact of cosmetic products. Biodegradable packaging, recyclable packaging, and bio-based packaging are central to sustainable packaging design. In addition, targeted delivery systems help improve the efficiency of active ingredients and extend shelf life, reducing waste. Waterless formulations further contribute to environmental sustainability by minimizing water use and preserving ingredient integrity.
Standards, transparency, and regulatory considerations
Clear INCI lists and compliance with standards like ISO 16128 help consumers and formulators better understand the raw material origins of a product. Ingredient transparency and sustainable practices are not just ethical considerations; they also respond to growing demands for clean beauty in the beauty industry. Published data increasingly supports the benefits of bio-based ingredients and sustainable botanical ingredients, which are now essential elements in the formulation fundamentals masterclass for new product developers.
Emerging trends and supply chain considerations
The cosmetics industry is seeing increased use of carbon neutral ingredients, botanical ingredients, and other eco-friendly materials that support sustainability criteria. Efficient supply chain practices ensure that ingredient sourcing aligns with the broader goals of the green cosmetics movement. As the sector evolves, attention to delivery systems, ingredient stability, and raw material selection will define the next generation of sustainable cosmetic formulation.
Get started with sustainable cosmetic development
Please contact us to get started with sustainable product development, whether you're exploring biodegradable ingredients, waterless formulations, or natural materials for your skincare products.