Editors' choice: Our favorite articles of 2023

As the year draws to a close, it's the perfect time to revisit and review some of the many articles CosmeticsDesign shared with you. We covered many topics, from sustainability to innovative product launches and intriguing research studies, but a few stood out as the work we liked most.  

Here is the list of our favorite articles of 2023:

Skincare, sensory and sustainability claims are helping to reimagine color cosmetics​

By: Simon Pittman, Freelancer

With a greater emphasis on skincare and sustainability claims, a new report highlights how developments in the digital realm are driving the fast pace of change in the color cosmetics category.

In this article, Simon spoke to Imogen Matthews, Founder of Premium Market Report and Consultant to Innova Market Insights, for her critical takeaways into the report, including how the demand for new skin care claims is helping to shape the product development process, the appeal and allure of sustainability in product formulations, and her favorite strategies to help brands stand out in the digital space.

Why skin cycling can bring an added dimension to bodycare​

By: Simon Pittman, Freelancer

The drive towards more targeted and personalized claims in body care products is opening the door to the fast-growing trend for skin cycling, according to the latest research from market intelligence provider Mintel.

In this article, Simon spoke to Anna Keller, a Global Senior Beauty Analyst at Mintel, who shared some enlightening insights into the relationship between skin cycling and consumer body care regimens and the growing popularity of this beauty trend in 2023.

The molecular benefits of cruelty-free snail slime​

By: Olivia DeSmit, Freelancer

Newly released research suggests snail slime mechanisms of action can impact cells at the molecular level, including cell viability and control of inflammatory events. This interests manufacturers and suppliers seeking to formulate new cosmetic and personal care products.

Olivia reviewed the study published in the scientific journal Molecules​ in this article. She provided an engaging breakdown of the cruelty-free Mueller extraction method, the topical benefits of snail slime, and the researcher's conclusions regarding the extract's impact on new blood vessel formation.

Polymer may strengthen sunscreen SPF and functionality: L'Oreal study​

By: Olivia DeSmit, Freelancer

Scientists at L'Oréal's Research and Development team found a polymer, abbreviated AAHCP, that can improve sunscreen texture and function and increase SPF factors' efficiency.

In this article, Olivia took a deep dive into the research study published in the "International Journal of Cosmetic Science​ and shared her critical insights into the testing methods and results of the newly discovered polymer.

Reddi-Wip sunscreen? First-of-its-kind aerosolized sunscreen launched​

By: Cassandra Stern, Editor

From the makers of Miami-based brand Vacation, Poolside FM went viral this year on TikTok with its launch of Classic Whip Sunscreen.

In this article, I had the pleasure of catching up with Dakota Green, Founding Partner of Vacation Inc., and Kevin Martz, Vice President of Business Development at Clayton Corporation, as they explained the exciting development and launch process behind this unique sunscreen product and how it was designed to meet consumer demand for one-of-a-kind sun protection that genuinely offers "fun in the sun."

Eliminating secondary packaging can improve brand image and reduce costs, said EPOPACK CEO​

By: Cassandra Stern, Editor 

Cosmetics and personal care product companies are always looking to better connect with consumers, and those prioritizing eco-friendly options can benefit from eliminating unnecessary packaging materials.

In this article, I sat down with Amy Pan, CEO of EPOPACK, to discuss the primary and tertiary benefits of removing secondary packaging to promote more sustainable and ethical consumption practices in the beauty space.

Q&A: DIOR launches first International Reverse Aging Scientific Board ​

By: Cassandra Stern, Editor 

Board members include specialists in fundamental and human sciences. They will focus on advancing research into the recently identified 'twelve hallmarks of aging' to accelerate research and understanding of skin health.

In this article, I interviewed Virginie Couturaud, Scientific Communication Director at DIOR, to learn more about the formation of the first-ever International Reverse Aging Scientific Board, its mission and main research goals, and how board members plan to tackle some of the most pressing challenges regarding aging-related skin health issues.

Mintel Director on impactful inclusivity and diversity trends in cosmetics, PBC​         

By: Cassandra Stern, Editor 

Trends like 'category inclusion,' ‘price accessibility,' and 'elimination of ageism in marketing' are gaining traction in the cosmetics and personal care product industries to better meet consumer needs for more diverse and inclusive product offerings.

In this article, I spent some time with Jennifer White Boehm, Director of Personal Care and Household and Wellness at Mintel, to talk about some of the most impactful trends in inclusivity and diversity in the beauty industry, including category inclusion, price accessibility, and the challenges and successes in these spaces.