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How to preserve products in natural cosmetic formulation without synthetic preservatives
Developing natural cosmetics formulation that remain safe and effective over time requires careful selection of natural ingredients, attention to cosmetic chemistry, and a clear understanding of microbiological testing. Whether you're working on skincare products, haircare products, beauty products or natural skincare products, the challenge is similar: avoid synthetic preservatives while ensuring shelf life. Understanding natural preservatives and formulation basics Natural preservatives and plant based antimicrobials such as essential oils, botanical extracts, polyhydroxy acids and alpha-hydroxy acids can help prevent microbial growth. Popular options include rosemary extract, tea tree oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, shea butter and cocoa butter. Using the...
What ingredients are most frequently omitted in hypoallergenic cosmetic formulations?
Consumers with hypersensitive skin or a history of contact dermatitis or allergic rash look for hypoallergenic products to minimize adverse skin reactions. These consumer groups consider patch test results and product label details before buying hypoallergenic cosmetics, makeup, toner, facial cleanser, moisturizer, or natural makeup. Common problematic cosmetic ingredients Manufacturers often avoid certain cosmetic ingredients in dermatologic formulations to reduce allergenicity. These include: - Fragrance molecules and artificial fragrances - Irritating waxes and chemical filters that can disrupt the stratum corneum - Some preservatives like sorbic acid and sodium hydroxide - Coconut oil and peel oil that can act as...
What are the top clean beauty formulation trends for 2025?
Clean beauty continues to focus on natural ingredients such as aloe vera, green tea, rosehip seed oil, chamomile extract, sea buckthorn oil, and bio-based ingredients. Botanical-based actives and biotech ingredients, including copper peptides and bioengineered ingredients, align with sustainable practices, regenerative beauty, and circular economy goals. Cosmetic chemists are also exploring hybrid formulas that combine plant extracts with advanced biotech solutions, addressing consumer concerns about endocrine disrupting properties and artificial colors. Personalized and AI-driven skincare Personalized skincare is evolving with AI-driven personalization and AI-driven skincare tools. Big data and consumer behavior insights influence the use of ingredients like hyaluronic acid,...
How does biotechnology improve skincare formulations?
Biotechnology in cosmetic formulations combines enzyme technology, plant biotechnology, and blue biotechnology to develop lab-grown ingredients and biotech ingredients within a controlled environment. Bio-based cosmetic ingredients like hyaluronic acid, produced through microbial fermentation, and growth factors such as epidermal growth factor are now widely used for advanced skincare benefits. Biotech innovation also supports intelligent cellular stimulation to address senescent cells and improve skin cell function. Plant-based ingredients and botanical extracts Through plant-extracted cosmetic ingredients and plant stem cells—such as Tisochyrisis lutea, Crithmum maritimum, Undaria pinnatifida, and barley plants—biotechnology enables the creation of plant cell culture systems and lab-grown botanicals. These...
What are examples of sustainable cosmetic formulation ingredients
In the cosmetics industry and personal care industry, sustainable cosmetic formulation requires careful attention to ingredient sourcing, environmental footprint, and sustainable practices. This involves selecting eco-friendly ingredients, biodegradable ingredients, natural ingredients, and bio-based ingredients that meet sustainability criteria such as ISO 16128 compliance, carbon neutral ingredients, and recyclable packaging materials. Key categories of sustainable raw materials Here are common categories of sustainable cosmetic ingredients used in skincare products and cosmetic products: - Botanical ingredients and sustainable botanical ingredients from natural origin (e.g., fruit stone powders, flaxseed crops, olive skin by-products) - Active ingredients like ellagic acid, caffeic acid, phenolic acids,...
What ingredients should I look for in an anti‑aging serum for dry skin
When seeking an anti-aging serum for dry skin, it’s important to address both hydration and specific concerns like fine lines and dark spots. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid serum, vitamin C serum (especially ascorbic acid), and retinol serum are key for boosting moisture, supporting collagen production, and evening out skin tone. Hydrators and barrier repair Look for powerful humectants and reparative ingredients: vitamin B5, vitamin E, and green tea extract help soothe and strengthen the skin barrier. Ceramides and nourishing oils also help maintain hydration, especially in formulations labeled as hydrating serum or facial serums. Targeting texture and discoloration To...
Are certain vitamin C derivatives better for acne-prone or oily skin?
Vitamin c, also known as ascorbic acid or l‑ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that promotes collagen production and skin brightening. However, pure ascorbic acid can be unstable, irritating, and sensitive to pH levels. That’s why many cosmetic formulations use vitamin c derivatives and derivatives of vitamin c to improve stability, transdermal penetration, and reduce skin irritation. Common vitamin c derivatives and their benefits Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate – water‑soluble, gentle, supports collagen synthesis and helps with oil‑control Sodium ascorbyl phosphate – antimicrobial and anti‑inflammatory, good for acne‑prone skin Ethyl ascorbic acid (3‑o ethyl ascorbic acid) – stable, penetrates skin effectively,...
Should retinol night creams have preservatives and antioxidants?
A good retinol night cream, especially those containing vitamin A derivatives like retinyl palmitate, retinoic acid, or encapsulated retinal, should also include antioxidants such as vitamin C to stabilize the formula, support collagen production, and protect against skin damage. Antioxidants help maintain skin's cellular turnover while preserving skin texture, tone, and elasticity. Balancing act for sensitive skin and hormonal acne When formulating for sensitive skin or hormonal acne, ingredients like chamomile extract, aloe vera, licorice root, willow bark extracts, turmeric root, salicylic acid, azelaic acid, and acmella oleracea extract can help soothe, reduce excess oil, refine pore size, and protect...
How do you formulate a ceramide moisturizing serum?
Formulating a ceramide moisturizing serum begins with addressing common skin concerns such as sensitive skin, oily skin, signs of aging, red cheeks, and uneven skin tone. These issues often indicate a compromised skin barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and buildup of dead skin cells. Focusing on barrier support is essential for achieving healthier skin function and appearance. Key ingredients for hydration and repair Effective formulation relies on clinically effective ingredients. Ceramide NP, ceramide AP, and ceramide EOP—known collectively as essential ceramides—are critical for rebuilding the skin barrier. Hyaluronic acid provides deep moisture, while vitamin B5 calms and softens the skin....