Formulation & science

Ritual CEO on what will define beauty-from-within in 2026

Ritual CEO on what will define beauty-from-within in 2026

By Cassandra Stern

As brands enter a “prove-it” era shaped by clinical validation, ingredient transparency and evolving consumer expectations, Ritual’s founder outlines the standards she believes will separate leaders from laggards in 2026.

Are SIRT1, SIRT3 and SIRT6 the skin’s anti-aging trinity?

Are SIRT1, SIRT3 and SIRT6 the skin’s anti-aging trinity?

By Cassandra Stern

Sirtuins are a type of enzyme that regulate crucial cellular functions like DNA repair, metabolism and aging, and new research from Estée Lauder Companies demonstrates just how important they can be for skin longevity.

New sunscreen brand targets low SPF use among young men

New sunscreen brand targets low SPF use among young men

By Cassandra Stern

Skinmetal, a new mineral sunscreen brand created by Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson, targets young men with innovative, masculine skincare products to address low SPF use and promote long-term skin health.

Key takeaways from the PCPC Science Symposium & Expo 2025

Key takeaways from the PCPC Science Symposium & Expo 2025

By Cassandra Stern

The conference highlighted the importance of innovation, sustainability, and strategic partnerships in the cosmetics industry, emphasizing advancements in AI, microbiological safety, Eco-NAMs, and collaboration to enhance product safety, quality, and...

KBDB report finds 71% of beauty ingredients safer

KBDB report finds 71% of beauty ingredients safer

By Cassandra Stern

Key findings from this year’s analysis include that 71% are verified safer (up from 65%), but despite this progress, the report’s authors noted that “gaps remain where innovation is needed across product categories, applications, and chemical functions.”

Across the CD-Verse: October 2025

Across the CD-Verse: October 2025

By Cassandra Stern

This month’s installment of CosmeticsDesigns’ global roundup examines shifting regulatory landscapes, financial news, and breakdowns of industry analysis reporting.

5 recent breakthroughs in cosmetic science

5 recent breakthroughs in cosmetic science

By Cassandra Stern

As researchers explore new biological pathways, ingredient mechanisms, and delivery systems, the gap between cosmetic science and clinical performance continues to narrow.

US skin care turns to osmolytes for hydration edge

US skin care turns to osmolytes for hydration edge

By Cassandra Stern

Osmolytes, a class of small molecules that help cells regulate water balance under stress, are emerging as functional ingredients in next-generation hydration formulas, with IFF and Chemist Confessions among the companies advancing their use in the US...

Across the CD-Verse: September 2025

Across the CD-Verse: September 2025

By Cassandra Stern

This month’s roundup of CosmeticsDesign’s global coverage includes an in-depth look at scientific developments, sustainable innovation, and notable brand launches.

Q&A: The gut-skin-brain axis and the future of microbiome beauty

Q&A: The gut-skin-brain axis and the future of microbiome beauty

By Kirsty Doolan

The gut-skin-brain axis is scientifically proven to influence skin health, mental well-being and overall beauty. Stress and inflammation are major factors impacting the skin-gut-brain axis, with new research highlighting how interconnected they are.