Industry News Flash #20 - Personal Care - 16 April 2025

⚡️ Personal Care Industry News Flash 🗞️ 

Ingredient Launch:

Vari Dextrin Vitamin E Acetate 15 by Variati Spa is a powerful antioxidant that helps combat cellular aging and protect against free radicals. Topically, it offers moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and soothing benefits—making it ideal for skin and hair care applications. Check it out on Covalo now!

Scientific Breakthrough:

Researchers at Purdue University (Indiana) have developed soy-based compounds that match or even outperform petroleum-based surfactants in surface activity. These plant-based alternatives could offer a more sustainable option for shampoos, conditioners, and antimicrobial washes—without compromising product performance. Further testing is underway, but the early results point to a promising future for greener formulations.

Regulations & Compliance:

On April 1, 2025, the UK's Office for Product Safety & Standards (OPSS) amended the Cosmetic Regulations, updating Annex III restrictions for methyl salicylate. The move highlights growing divergence from EU regulations. Key UK-specific changes are age differentiation and stricter oral care limits. The EU SCCS is also reviewing methyl salicylate use for children aged 0-3, with further EU changes expected soon. Read the full amendment and updated restrictions here.

Company Update:

Unilever has acquired UK-based personal care brand Wild, continuing its shift toward premium, high-growth segments under its Growth Action Plan 2030. Founded in 2020, Wild is a digitally native brand known for its natural, refillable products and plastic-free packaging. With a strong DTC and retail presence, it's the UK's #1 refillable deodorant brand, offering deodorants, lip balms, body washes, and hand washes. The acquisition strengthens Unilever's Personal Care portfolio with a fast-growing, sustainable brand.

Sustainability Update:

BASF reports that 98.1% of its sourced palm kernel oil is now RSPO-certified. Additionally, nearly 97% of its total palm oil exposure (390,591 tonnes) is traceable to the mill level. The company also strengthened its commitment to sustainable sourcing through a partnership with Solidaridad and Fedepalma in Columbia, supporting sustainable practices via the APSColombia protocol and RSPO standards.

Events & Trade shows:

Don't miss a beat! From trade shows to trend talks, the personal care industry is buzzing with events:

• Trace One 2025 User Conference
  📆 15 - 17 April 2025
  📍 EAST Hotel, Miami, Florida
• PLMA 2025
  📆 20 - 21 May 2025
  📍 RAI, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
• Cosmetic Business 2025
  📆 4 - 5 June 2025
  📍 MOC, Munich, Germany

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