Industry News Flash #25 - Personal Care - 9 July 2025

⚡️ Personal Care Industry News Flash 🗞️ 

AI in Beauty:

🚀  New segment alert! The beauty industry is entering its AI era, and we’re here to keep you ahead of the game. From smart diagnostics to AI-powered formulation and ingredient discovery, we’ll spotlight the innovations shaping the future. From now on, you’ll be on top of everything AI—thanks to Covalo. 

The UAE and World Economic Forum have introduced the Global Regulatory Innovation Platform (Grip), to help governments keep pace with rapidly evolving tech like AI. Designed to co-create agile regulatory frameworks, Grip will engage global stakeholders—including those in beauty and personal care—where AI is transforming everything from R&D to diagnostics. With outputs like a playbook, readiness index, and testing hub, Grip aims to close the gap between innovation and regulation, supporting responsible growth of AI in cosmetics.

Scientific Breakthrough:

New research by Unilever scientists has uncovered a connection between the skin microbiome and psychological wellbeing. Published in the British Journal of Dermatology, the study reveals that higher levels of Cutibacterium, particularly on the face, scalp, and arms, are associated with lower stress levels and improved mood. Conducted in collaboration with the Microbiome Innovation Centre and the University of Liverpool, the findings highlight the skin-brain axis as a promising target for future skincare innovation. It's a first-of-its-kind discovery that could shape microbiome-based approaches to emotional and mental wellness in beauty.

Regulations & Compliance:

Banana Boat and Hawaiian Tropic owner Edgewell Personal Care is facing court in Australia after the ACCC alleged misleading "reef friendly" claims across its sunscreen products. While the formulas excluded banned ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, they still contained others—such as octocrylene and homosalate—that may harm marine ecosystems. The case serves as a sharp reminder that sustainability claims must be science-backed and fully substantiated. Always stay compliant and up-to-date with evolving regulatory expectations, especially when making environmental claims.

Company Update:

Estée Lauder has opened a new pop-up at South Korea's Incheon Airport, centered on longevity. It offers travelers premium skincare treatments with its Re-Nutriv range, including personalized digital portraits based on visitors' iris patterns. In a further push, the brand is partnering with Korean Air to offer Re-Nutriv treatments to first-class passengers. It's the latest in Estée Lauder's efforts to position itself at the intersection of luxury travel, personalization, and longevity science.

Sustainability Update:

Ashland has broadened its Viatel bioresorbable polymer range, offering biodegradable solutions increasingly used in biomedical and cosmetic applications like dermal fillers. These polymers help smooth skin texture, stimulate collagen, and reduce wrinkles—making them a go-to for regenerative aesthetics. The expansion is part of Ashland's innovation strategy to grow its R&D and manufacturing footprint, with new high-molecular-weight formulations enhancing performance and versatility.

Events & Trade shows:

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

• Biotech by Instinct: Fast-tracking innovation with science-backed confidence
  📅 9 July 2025, 3pm CET / 10am EST
  📍Free online webinar
  🔗 Sign up now
• Cosmoprof Las Vegas
  📅 15-17 July, 2025
  📍 Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las Vegas
  🔗 Learn more
  

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