Top Cosmetic Trends of 2023

Cosmetic trend of 2023 #1: Sustainability.

In recent years we have seen the continued popularity of using ‘sustainability’ as a brand’s marketing message. In 2023 however, it became more than just a desire for a brand to have a sustainability message – it has become (almost) essential. In fact, making sustainability claims has become such a common theme amongst brands, it is now another regulatory hotspot because of misleading and deceptive practices. While some cosmetic brands are guilty of green washing without even knowing it, others have more cleverly incorporated clear sustainability claims and provide evidence-based percentage (%) information to their consumers.

Having a product with naturally derived ingredients does not, as some cosmetic brands and consumers think, instantly make a cosmetic formula sustainable. Many naturally derived ingredients actually have a significant carbon footprint as part of their processing; while truly sustainable practices include upcycled ingredients, fermentation, waterless products and smart choices in innovative and sustainable packaging.

Minimalist formulations have been used as a way to reduce the carbon footprint of multiple ingredient sourcing; while cold processing has increased in popularity as a way to reduce the carbon footprint of manufacturing. Sourcing local ingredients and supporting remote communities have also been embraced by some brands as a way of showing an eco-conscience.

 

Cosmetic trend of 2023 #2: Cosmetic actives for mental health.

Although cosmetic products can’t make claims about mental health and wellbeing, the link between looking great and feeling great has been known for centuries. Our modern era has introduced another challenge: social media.

It only takes a quick google search to find multiple studies citing negative impacts of social media on mental health. Two key issues include negative self-image (based on appearance) and impacts on sleep (blue screen time particularly late at night).

Cosmetic and personal care products can assist with both of these key issues: 2023 heralded more ‘selfie-ready’ makeup solutions than ever before; while newly launched active ingredients have clinical data to show their beneficial impacts on skin repair during sleep as well as olfactory influences. We’ve even seen cosmetic actives launched with a yoga-like benefit to the skin! Search UL Prospector or speak with your favourite active suppliers for their ‘mental health’ wellbeing actives; just remember to be careful with what advertising claims you make to your consumer about these amazing solutions.

 

Cosmetic trend of 2023 #3: Ancient extracts and oils revisited.

Consumers have always loved the use of naturally derived ingredients in personal care, and 2023 saw this surge. Notably, the use and promotion of ancient extracts and oils has increased as cosmetic science has isolated new activities, or highlighted skin and hair beneficial nutrients, in these exotic ingredients. For some of the most interesting ingredients, look to regions of remote Asia, the Amazon, and traditionally used extracts of Australia. Speak with your supplier about their exotic and traditional plant offerings, especially those newly launched or highlighted during 2023.
 

Cosmetic trend of 2023 #4: Scalp and hair products

We saw the popularity of cosmetic products for the hair and scalp start in 2022, but it really took off in 2023. The link between maintaining good scalp health, and even applying actives directly to the scalp for outstanding results on the hair, has been amplified with cosmetic ingredient and product launches such as serums for anti-grey, anti-hair loss, anti-dandruff, split end repair and even lash lengthening and strengthening.

We also saw a big increase in hair care products specific to certain hair types and issues, such as sleek styling sticks, co-wash for curly hair, curly hair cremes and intensive hair repair masks.

Cosmetic trend of 2023 #5: Advanced cosmetic science for enhanced beauty results.

In 2022, the trending cosmetic actives were proteins and peptides; in 2023 we saw a resurgence of interest in stem cells. Late 2023, we saw another science-based cosmetic solution really take off: the fight against cell senescence. Cells will age over time – but certain actives, especially those newly launched at in-cosmetics in 2023, have clinically proven benefits to delay and even halt skin cell senescence. The results help freeze or delay the appearance of ageing, and consumers couldn’t be more pleased! Investigate the innovation zone of in-cosmetics events to become aware of the latest launches tackling cell senescence and create consumer winning active cosmetics with strong science to support their future benefits.

 

Cosmetic trend of 2023 #6: Skin microbiome.

No discussion on 2023 trends would be complete without mentioning the continued increase of launches, and consumer interest, in the skin microbiome. 2023 saw the launch of more innovative and diverse products and cosmetic ingredients with a microbiome message. As expected, there is an increase in anti-acne actives in this sector; but there has also been some very interesting launches to support scalp health, other aspects of skin health, combat body odour, oral care and mouth odour, and even launches specific to feminine hygiene.

Cosmetic trends of 2023: Notable mentions.

2023 could be suggested as the year of inclusivity: gender, ethnicity and society. It has also been a year where cosmetic brands have focussed closely on the product types wanted most by specific generations, along with the marketing messages and media with the most appeal and relevance to each group. The need for individualised customisation has therefore decreased, while the call for gender neutral products has increased, particularly in the Gen-Y demographic.

Remember also to incorporate our tips and tricks to create a viral skincare trend – especially relevant since we live in the social media savvy world of today!
 

Cosmetic trends: get ready for 2024…

Astute brands are able to get to market fast and first with the latest trends by using fast formulation secrets. If you have not already created (and robustly tested) your fast formulation bases, there’s no time like the present to get your fast formulation development under way.

Remember to ensure a strong sustainability message with your cosmetic formulas by incorporating sustainable formulation techniques. They are an essential aspect to not only formulate, but also support with appropriate evidence, as part of your future brand campaign.
 

Happy formulating!