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in-conversation with … a business podcast brought to you by the team that publish Global Cosmetics News, is a panel discussion about interesting things with interesting people all whom just happen to have a connection with the cosmetics industry.
Episodes
Thursday Jan 01, 2026
Thursday Jan 01, 2026
In-Conversation With – Global Cosmetics News Podcast
Navigating the Year Ahead for the Global Cosmetics Sector
In this flagship episode of In Conversation With, Global Cosmetics News host Siobhan Murphy is joined by leading B2B journalist Julia Wray to map out the business-critical forces that will define cosmetics innovation, regulation, sourcing, and consumer demand in 2026.
Whether you’re formulating, manufacturing, marketing, or retailing cosmetic products, this conversation delivers expert insight into the converging macro shifts—economic, technological, regulatory, and consumer-led—that will shape your next strategic move.
“Cosmetics in 2026 won’t be defined by isolated trends, but by how well businesses adapt to their convergence.” — Siobhan Murphy
Sector Signals to Watch
Consumer Demands Evolve
- Preventative and multifunctional products are now mainstream, with rising expectations around skin health, longevity, and sensorial experience.
- Consumers are prioritizing routine relevance over product novelty — favoring simplicity, emotional well-being, and long-term efficacy.
- The rise of South Asian and K-Beauty crossover brands is setting new benchmarks in format innovation and visual appeal, particularly in color cosmetics.
Longevity & Nutricosmetics
- Interest in future-proofing skin and hair health has catalyzed growth in nutricosmetics, biotech-derived actives, and hybrid formats that merge functionality with indulgence.
- Younger consumers are embracing early-intervention strategies, including prejuvenation and skin barrier-focused solutions.
Innovation Through Technology
AI at Scale
- AI is becoming central to cosmetic R&D, marketing, content creation, and retail personalization.
- 2026 will see the commercial scaling of AI-led commerce (e.g. ChatGPT-powered shopping), enhanced ingredient discovery, and smart visual merchandising.
“AI must be explained, not just used. Transparency builds trust in cosmetic innovation.” — Julia Wray
Clinical-Grade Devices
- Expect growth in cosmetic tools co-developed with formulations, such as nano-resurfacing devices, wearable trackers, and metabolic monitoring tools for skin and scalp.
- Demand for sensorial, playful packaging and emotive technology will shape cosmetic device design and user experience.
Regulatory and Supply Chain Landscape
Environmental Compliance Tightens
- New EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), EPR laws, and fragrance allergen disclosure rules will require cosmetics brands to revamp product development and labeling.
- Brands must prepare for proof-based sustainability, not greenwashing — including lifecycle accountability and material traceability.
Trade, Tariffs & Risk Strategy
- 15%+ import tariffs on key cosmetic markets (France, Korea) and aluminum packaging materials are reshaping sourcing and pricing strategies.
- Smart players are adopting regionally optimized manufacturing, supply chain agility, and alternative compliance tactics to mitigate costs.
Strategic Movements & M&A Outlook
- Major acquisitions (e.g. Kenvue by Kimberly-Clark, Rhode by ELF, Coty’s review of its consumer business) point to strategic repositioning in cosmetics portfolios.
- Fragrance is emerging as a growth driver, with big players investing in upstream manufacturing and celebrity-backed brands seeing strong M&A interest.
Key Takeaways for 2026
- Longevity Moves Center Stage
Cosmetic brands will lead with evidence-backed, age-agnostic innovation, spanning skincare, body care, and wellness. - South Asian Color Cosmetics Surge
Expect a wave of youth-led, globally appealing brands redefining inclusive product design and marketing. - AI Goes Operational
From R&D to retail, AI integration is no longer a concept — it’s a business requirement. But its ethical use and transparency will separate leaders from laggards.
Listen to the Full Episode
Gain strategic foresight into how the cosmetics sector will evolve across regulation, technology, sustainability, and consumer expectation.
Tuesday Dec 09, 2025
Tuesday Dec 09, 2025
How science, policy, and consumer shifts shaped a transformative year in cosmetics
Welcome to our Year-in-Review podcast episode where we explore the seismic changes that reshaped the global beauty and personal care industry throughout 2025. In a landscape defined by rapid technological advancement, policy reform, and evolving consumer values, our expert guests—
How science, policy, and consumer shifts shaped a transformative year in cosmetics
Welcome to our Year-in-Review podcast episode where we explore the seismic changes that reshaped the global beauty and personal care industry throughout 2025. In a landscape defined by rapid technological advancement, policy reform, and evolving consumer values, our expert guests—Amarjit Sahota, Founder of Ecovia Intelligence, and Maggie Spicer, Founder of Source Beauty—join host Siobhan Murphy to unpack the critical forces that are setting the stage for 2026.
Key Themes That Defined Beauty in 2025
Sustainability Becomes Non-Negotiable
Environmental concerns such as carbon footprint, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss remained top of mind for both consumers and regulators. With inflation and the cost-of-living crisis squeezing purchasing power, brands had to deliver affordable sustainability—value-aligned offerings that meet performance expectations without greenwashing.
Scope 3 emissions reporting became the new norm, driven by ingredient suppliers offering life cycle analysis data. Meanwhile, refillables, bioplastics, and waterless formats solidified their place in packaging innovation pipelines.
Biotech and AI Go Mainstream
From precision fermentation to plant cell technology, biotech reached commercial scale—powering novel actives and alternatives to ingredients like palm and coconut oil.
Artificial Intelligence reshaped:
- Formulation development via platforms like Covalo and PotionAI
- Personalized beauty through generative tools like Perfect Corp’s SkinGPT
- Supply chain transparency, enhancing risk management and resilience
Regulation Tightens – and Fragments
This year marked a shift from voluntary sustainability to regulatory obligation.
In the EU:
- Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)
- Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation
- EU Deforestation Regulation
While the Green Claims Directive was delayed, its intention signaled a hardening stance on greenwashing and eco-label proliferation.
In the US:
State-led frameworks drove enforcement in the absence of federal policy:
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) took full effect in multiple states, demanding granular packaging data
- Patchwork legislation around clean beauty, ingredient transparency, and marketing claims created compliance headaches but also revealed opportunities for operational efficiency and brand trust-building
Supply Chain Resilience: A Strategic Imperative
Tech-enabled upstream visibility helped brands of all sizes identify risks related to:
- Geopolitical instability
- Climate-vulnerable sourcing regions
- Packaging costs and tariffs
Maggie Spicer emphasized that this visibility is now as much about business survival as it is about compliance.
What’s Next in 2026?
Consolidation Over Acceleration
With a year of disruption behind, 2026 is shaping up as a year of consolidation, where beauty companies will:
- Refine packaging design with recyclability and compostability front of mind
- Move beyond carbon to embrace nature-based solutions and biodiversity storytelling
- Double down on trust-building, as consumers demand clearer proof of purpose and performance
A Divided Path Ahead
Europe is doubling down on green regulation, while the US sees a regulatory pullback under current political leadership. The result? A growing divergence in sustainability standards and reporting norms—placing a premium on agility and localized compliance.
About the Series
In-Conversation With ... is the flagship podcast from Global Cosmetics News, exploring how innovation, regulation, culture, and sustainability are reshaping beauty and personal care.
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
Rethinking Beauty for the Overlooked Powerhouse Consumer
In this episode of In Conversation With, Global Cosmetics News turns its attention to Generation X—a demographic commanding 25% of beauty category spend, representing a staggering US$1.5 trillion globally. While most brands pursue Gen Z, Gen X remains critically under-addressed—despite their high expectations, spending power, and growing interest in science-backed, purpose-driven beauty.
This Month's Expert Panel:
- Florence Roghe – Founder & Director, Collateral Projects
- Debbie Thomas – Founder, D.Thomas Clinic & Skincare Brand Cellis, Advanced Skin Expert
- Wizz Selvey – Founder, WIZZ&CO; Co-Founder, Wellness Brand Valerie
Key Takeaways for B2B Leaders
1. Gen X Wants Science, Simplicity & Longevity
Florence Roghe explains that Gen X consumers are educated, brand-aware, and focused on visible results. They seek high-efficacy products backed by transparent claims—not trendy marketing. There’s increasing demand for hybrid beauty solutions that integrate skincare, wellbeing, and hormonal health.
“They don’t want youth-targeted formulas—they want products made for them.”
– Florence Roghe
2. A New Era of Skin Longevity
Debbie Thomas, a leading advanced skin therapist, advocates a “skin health first” model. Her approach blends proven dermatological technologies with new-age metabolic innovations, like mitochondrial support and barrier signaling, all aimed at long-term results over quick fixes.
“We’re shifting from aggressive anti-aging to strategic longevity. Delivery systems are key.”
– Debbie Thomas
3. Perimenopause-Driven Innovation
Wizz Selvey shares how Valerie, her wellness brand, is bridging the education gap for women entering perimenopause. Gen X wants practical, science-informed solutions—especially when it comes to supplementation, hormonal balance, and daily self-care routines.
“Innovation must be empathetic, evidence-led, and easy to use—not overwhelming.”
– Wizz Selvey
Tech Meets Real Life: From AI to Wearables
The panel agrees that AI, at-home diagnostics, and smart wearables can empower Gen X, but must be intuitive and human-centered. Technology must simplify—not complicate—already demanding lifestyles.
“It needs to bring real value—not gimmicks.”
– Florence Roghe
Sustainable Innovation with Transparency
Across the panel, there’s consensus that Gen X demands authentic sustainability—beyond buzzwords. Whether it’s refillable packaging, local sourcing, or smarter delivery formats, eco-claims must be substantiated and accessible.
- Debbie redesigned her skincare range with larger, multi-benefit formats to reduce consumption.
- Wizz formulated Valerie’s supplements with liposomal delivery to replace multiple pills with one shot—offering better efficacy and less waste.
Regulatory Reality Check
With evolving global regulations, particularly in retinol usage and claim substantiation, Gen X-focused brands are under pressure to balance compliance with performance.
“Regulation should be seen as reassurance, not resistance.”
– Florence Roghe
Emerging Opportunity: Color Cosmetics for Mature Skin
One underserved area? Make-up innovation for aging skin. Florence calls for more brands to address mature skin with creamy textures, flexible pigments, and barrier support—not just coverage.
Listen Now
Discover how Gen X is redefining the beauty narrative—demanding smarter innovation, longer-term solutions, and real representation in product design, brand voice, and marketing.
Wednesday Oct 01, 2025
Wednesday Oct 01, 2025
Innovating for Millennials – The Future of Beauty in 2025
How brands are redefining beauty to meet the expectations of an informed, evolving millennial audience.
A Podcast for Beauty Industry Leaders
As the beauty industry continues to chase Gen Z, has it forgotten the powerhouse that is the millennial consumer? Once the dominant voice in beauty culture—driving YouTube reviews, nostalgic collaborations, and the rise of indie brands—millennials are now in their late 20s to early 40s. They're parents, professionals, and wellness-driven shoppers with mature values, discerning tastes, and spending power.
In this episode of In Conversation With, Siobhan Murphy is joined by two leading voices in beauty strategy and formulation:
- Mallory Huron, Director of Beauty & Wellness at Future Snoops
- Alec Batis, Co-Founder and Cosmetic Chemist at Sweet Chemistry
Together, they examine the real-time shifts in millennial consumer behavior and how beauty brands can recalibrate to meet them in 2025 and beyond.
Key Takeaways for Industry Decision-Makers
1. Healthy Aging and “Mature Innovation”
Millennials are rewriting the aging narrative. No longer obsessed with anti-aging, this cohort embraces “healthy aging”—seeking skincare that evolves with them. Brands must now design products that balance functional efficacy with emotional relatability.
“It’s all about aging alongside the consumer,” says Mallory Huron. “We’re seeing demand for effective, inclusive products that reflect lived experiences—not unattainable ideals.”
2. Transparency is the New Luxury
Forget smoke and mirrors. Today’s millennial wants science-backed, transparent formulations. Alec Batis recounts his days inside corporate R&D, where marketing claims often took precedence over efficacy—and how today's consumer now sees behind the curtain.
“They want what they thought they were getting in the first place,” says Batis. “Formulas that actually deliver, without the fairy dusting.”
3. The Role of Biotech and Device Culture
Millennials—especially early adopters—embrace the intersection of biotech and beauty gadgets. From personalized skincare to lab-grown actives, innovation isn’t just skin deep—it’s data-rich, clean-tech infused, and sustainability-driven.
Redefining Sustainability: What Millennials Expect Now
The millennial conversation around sustainability has matured from “natural = better” to evidence-based environmental responsibility. Mallory Huron explains how the definition of “clean” has shifted—rejecting greenwashing in favor of biotech innovation, ethical sourcing, and verified lifecycle claims.
Batis adds:
“The beauty industry once defined sustainability around packaging—glass over plastic. But it's more complex than that. Carbon impact, ingredient upcycling, and transparency all matter.”
Regulation and Risk in Product Innovation
As regulatory landscapes shift, both speakers point out how millennials are influencing legislation on ingredient safety, youth-targeted marketing, and broader consumer protection. They're not just consumers; they’re activists, educators, and policy drivers.
What’s Next? A Future of Purposeful Beauty
Millennial beauty isn’t just about products—it’s about purpose, cultural relevance, and identity. Whether it’s nostalgic advent calendars or biotech-powered actives, the opportunity for brands lies in crafting experiences that feel real, resonant, and responsibly made.
Why This Matters for B2B Stakeholders
If you're a brand leader, product developer, R&D strategist, or investor—this conversation offers a blueprint for how to future-proof your business for a millennial-driven 2025:
- Build innovation pipelines around healthy aging, not anti-aging
- Adopt full-spectrum transparency in formulation and marketing
- Invest in ethical biotech and next-gen sustainability
- Understand that consumer trust now equals brand equity
Wednesday Sep 24, 2025
Wednesday Sep 24, 2025
Redefining Beauty for a Digital-First Generation
In this episode of In Conversation With, Global Cosmetics News explores the dynamic preferences and evolving expectations of Gen Z adults—a digitally native, values-driven generation poised to reshape the future of the beauty industry.
Hosted by Siobhan Murphy, the episode features insights from:
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Georgia Stafford, Senior Research Analyst, Beauty, Personal Care, Health & Wellbeing at Mintel
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Trishna Daswaney, Director at Kohl Kreatives
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Disha Daswaney, Chief Operating Officer at Kohl Kreatives
Key Themes & Insights
1. Preventative Aging & Skin Longevity
Gen Z is redefining "anti-aging" through a preventative lens. Georgia Stafford explains how brands like Glow Recipe and Neutrogena are embracing “slow aging,” focusing on long-term skin health rather than immediate results. This shift also promotes lower-concentration actives, hydration, and patience—counterbalancing Gen Z’s historical preference for intense, fast-acting ingredients.
2. Community & Customization
At Kohl Kreatives, Trishna and Disha Daswaney are building private channels and WhatsApp communities to offer Gen Z personalized interactions and direct involvement in product creation. This audience craves peer-to-peer validation, creator-led education, and brands that feel like friends—not authorities.
3. Tech That Empowers
From AI-enhanced tools to gaming and metaverse activations, Gen Z’s embrace of technology opens new avenues for beauty brands. Brands are investing in multi-function skincare devices, menstrual-cycle-based product routines, and digital-first experiences on platforms like Roblox.
4. Sustainability & Human Ethics
Sustainability matters—but human ethics and brand purpose come first. Gen Z wants products that work, but will choose companies aligned with their values. Georgia notes that 57% of Gen Z prioritize human ethics over environmental ethics. Transparency, biotech innovation, and community empowerment are key.
5. Regulations, Retinol & Science
With EU retinol regulations tightening, Gen Z is driving demand for proven retinol alternatives. Georgia emphasizes the need for diverse testing and science-led storytelling, while brands like Róen and Tiaq are setting the bar for transparent efficacy.
6. Playful Expression & Fragrance Futures
From charm accessories to signature scent bundles for people, pets, and pillows, the panel closes with a celebration of creativity. Trishna highlights the rise of “looksmaxxing” and male beauty, while Disha nods to smart SPF stickers and quick-to-use “Quickie Stickies.”
Listen Now:
How is Gen Z reshaping the beauty space? What does personalization really look like? What’s next for product innovation?
This episode delivers practical insights, data-led foresight, and creative inspiration to guide brands into 2025 and beyond.
Sunday Aug 03, 2025
Sunday Aug 03, 2025
Shaping Safe, Engaging, and Responsible Beauty for the Next Generation
In this episode of In Conversation With, host Siobhan Murphy explores one of the fastest-growing and most influential categories in beauty and personal care: the teen market. Valued at US$25 billion today and projected to reach US$33 billion by 2028, this segment is being reshaped by social media trends, rising disposable incomes, and the power of Gen Alpha and Gen Z.
But with growing influence comes new responsibility. How can brands engage young consumers without compromising safety, transparency, or trust?
The Panel:
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Mallory Huron – Director of Beauty & Wellness, Future Snoops
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Reena Hammer – Co-Founder, Indu
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Dr. Carol Treasure – Founder & CEO, XCellR8
Key Insights
1. Understanding the Teen Consumer
Mallory Huron highlights that teen beauty is evolving as fast as its consumers mature—from tweens discovering self-care to teens inspired by luxury and social media influencers.
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Teens are drawn to gamified, playful, and social-first beauty experiences.
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Brands must balance age-appropriate formulas with trend-driven marketing to avoid harmful practices like retinoid misuse.
2. Building With Teens, Not Just for Them
Reena Hammer of Indu emphasizes the power of co-creation.
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Teens sit on the brand’s product development committees, testing textures, scents, and formats.
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Their direct input ensures products solve real teen concerns rather than adult-imagined problems.
3. Science and Safety First
Dr. Carol Treasure of XCellR8 underscores the need for dermatologist-informed testing.
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Teenage skin is delicate and changing, requiring gentle, barrier-safe formulations.
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Transparency around cruelty-free and vegan testing builds trust with socially aware Gen Alpha and Gen Z.
Technology & Social Media: Influence and Innovation
From TikTok trends to AI-powered recommendations
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Teens are experimenting with beauty devices, facial tools, and gamified skincare—heavily inspired by K-Beauty.
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Future opportunities include AI-driven, age-appropriate product recommendations and safe digital ecosystems that protect young consumers from harmful messaging.
Sustainability That Resonates
Today’s teens care deeply about sustainability, but accessibility and convenience drive actual purchases.
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Refillable packaging, recyclable materials, and simple 3R principles (reduce, reuse, recycle) resonate.
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Brands must combine eco-conscious design with fun, easy-to-use formats to turn sustainable intent into action.
Regulation, Responsibility & Brand Ethics
With the Sephora kids phenomenon in full swing, regulators and brands face a critical challenge:
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Governments and some regions (like Sweden and California) are restricting anti-aging actives for minors.
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Brands must act in good faith—prioritizing safe routines, clear communication, and parent education—before regulation catches up.
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Collective responsibility across parents, brands, and social media is essential to protect young consumers.
Inspiring Innovations
"We’re seeing SPF and acne care made fun, colorful, and stigma-free—creating healthy habits early." – Mallory Huron
"Teenagers are our most creative collaborators. Listening to them sparks true innovation." – Reena Hammer
"Gentle, transparent, and scientifically-backed products are the key to long-term trust." – Dr. Carol Treasure
Monday Jul 21, 2025
Monday Jul 21, 2025
In this episode of In Conversation With, host Siobhan Murphy explores the rapid evolution of one of beauty and personal care’s most sensitive and high-growth categories: pregnancy and baby care. As global sales are projected to reach US$254 billion in 2025 and soar to US$419 billion by 2032, consumer demand is reshaping how brands formulate, market, and innovate.
Joining Siobhan to unpack the trends driving the future of this category are:
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Shiyan Zering, Senior Research Analyst at Mintel
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Sara Stokes, CEO & Founder at Skin to Skin
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Emma Heathcote-James, Founder of Little Soap Company
Key Insights
1. Elevated Expectations in a Split Market
As Shiyan Zering notes, parents today are split between affordability concerns and a willingness to invest in premium, dermatologically tested solutions. There’s a growing appetite for gentle, multifunctional products that cater to diverse skin tones, sensitive skin conditions, and time-pressed routines—creating new opportunities for both mass and luxury brands.
2. Science-Led Skincare for Motherhood
Sara Stokes of Skin to Skin emphasizes the importance of efficacy, safety, and inclusivity across all stages of motherhood—from trying to conceive to postpartum. With a focus on dermatologist-approved, pregnancy-safe formulations, her brand reflects how rising consumer knowledge is demanding both education and trust in maternal skincare.
3. Soaps for Every Stage
Emma Heathcote-James shares how Little Soap Company is expanding its award-winning Eco Warrior range to address underserved needs in the baby care space. With new dermatologist- and pediatrician-approved bars for newborns and children, the brand champions multifunctional, plastic-free formats and customer-led innovation.
Technology Meets Tradition
From smart thermometers to skincare quizzes
Mintel’s data reveals growing interest in tech-enabled tracking and digital aids—but cautions against overwhelming parents with too much data. Brands like Skin to Skin and Little Soap Company instead lean into real-world feedback and consumer insights, using technology primarily to listen, learn, and adapt.
Sustainability in Focus
Beyond greenwashing
Consumers are no longer willing to choose between sustainability and performance. Today’s products must prove they work—clinically and environmentally. Innovations like biotech-derived actives, upcycled ingredients, refillable pouches, and plastic-free packaging are becoming the new standard.
Sara Stokes highlights Skin to Skin’s use of Icelandic algae and cranberry waste extracts as examples of ethical sourcing through biotechnology. Meanwhile, Little Soap Company’s mission is to eliminate plastic from the bathroom altogether, backed by its B Corp certification and data-led commitment to real change—not greenwashing.
Regulation & Reformulation
Stricter safety standards for babies and pregnant women are reshaping how brands develop and test products.
Skin to Skin is pioneering a new level of safety certification for pregnancy care, pushing for changes in outdated toxicology standards that don't yet account for the unique needs of this demographic.
As Emma notes, navigating these evolving regulatory demands is a significant burden for small businesses—but one that’s critical for building consumer trust.
Standout Innovations
"We're seeing hybrid baby care products that combine maximum performance with minimalist formats. Less waste, more function—that's the future." – Emma Heathcote-James
"Pregnancy-safe skincare should be standard, not a side note." – Sara Stokes
"The next wave of baby care will be clinically-backed, sensorial, and inclusive." – Shiyan Zering
Saturday Jun 07, 2025
Saturday Jun 07, 2025
Color with Purpose
In this episode of the Global Cosmetics News Podcast, host Siobhan Murphy explores how color cosmetics are evolving in 2025—from mood-boosting pigments to tech-enabled personalization and performance-meets-sustainability formulations.
With the global color cosmetics market set to hit US$79 billion in 2025 and forecast to grow to US$148 billion by 2030, the industry is experiencing a renaissance. But in a market driven by self-expression and aesthetics, how can brands continue to stand out?
Siobhan is joined by a panel of leading innovators:
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Florence Roghé, Founder of Collateral Projects
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Benjamin Droguet, CEO of Sparxell
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Marcus Tamminen, Managing Director at Arbelle
Key Highlights
Emotional Beauty & Hybrid Formulas
Florence explores the growing consumer demand for emotionally resonant products—from mood-enhancing shades to hormone-smart hybrids that work with mature skin, not against it.
Nature-Inspired Innovation
Benjamin shares how bio-based pigment technology, inspired by nature, is enabling brands to create high-performance, sustainable color with fewer synthetic chemicals—eliminating the need for traditional mica, mineral oxides, and microplastics.
Personalization Through Tech
Marcus discusses how AI and diagnostic tools are transforming try-ons and shade matching into truly personal, authentic beauty experiences. Today’s consumers want makeup that fits their lifestyle and individuality—not filtered ideals.
The Rise of Active Beauty
From sweat-proof, long-wear formulas to breathable, skincare-infused makeup, active beauty is becoming a priority. Florence notes the opportunity in creating products that meet the needs of modern, mobile consumers.
Sustainability as a Must-Have
Sustainable formulation and circular packaging aren’t just trends—they're expectations. All three guests emphasized the importance of building sustainability into the product lifecycle from the start, not as an afterthought.
Regulatory Readiness
From SPF hybrids to AI transparency, brands must prepare for increasing scrutiny. Whether it's the EU AI Act or bans on microplastics, regulatory shifts are reshaping how brands innovate and communicate in color cosmetics.
Standout Quotes
“Makeup isn’t about masking—it’s about celebrating your skin’s evolution.” – Florence Roghé
“We don’t have to choose between sustainability and performance anymore.” – Benjamin Droguet
“Consumers aren’t looking for filters. They’re looking for products that help them feel seen.” – Marcus Tamminen
Listen Now
Dive into how color cosmetics are being redefined through emotional connection, biotechnology, inclusive technology, and responsible innovation.
Monday May 05, 2025
Monday May 05, 2025
Redefining Everyday Essentials
In this episode of the Global Cosmetics News Podcast, host Siobhan Murphy explores the fast-changing personal care landscape—from deodorants and body washes to toothpaste and beyond. With consumers demanding more from the products they use daily, the industry is seeing massive shifts driven by ingredient scrutiny, sustainability, and technology.
Joining Siobhan are three leading voices shaping the future of personal care:
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Mallory Huron, Director of Beauty & Wellness at Future Snoops
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Jo Chidley, Founder of Beauty Kitchen and Reposit
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Maggie Spicer, Founder of Source Beauty
Key Highlights
The Skinification of Personal Care
Consumers are treating every inch of skin with the same care they give their face. That means facial-grade actives—think niacinamide and vitamin C—are showing up in body washes, deodorants, and oral care. As Mallory notes, today’s consumer is “uncompromising,” demanding both efficacy and ethical sourcing in every product.
Tech-Driven Transparency and Trust
Trust is becoming the new currency. Jo Chidley explains how small brands can lead by using AI, third-party certifications, and post-purchase insights to prove product claims and reduce waste.
Biotech and Sustainable Ingredients
From microalgae to fermentation-based actives, Mallory and Jo discuss how biotech is unlocking performance, preserving biodiversity, and even connecting food and beauty. Maggie adds that biotech also plays a vital role in packaging innovation, enabling smarter reuse and better recyclability.
Regulatory Shakeups
As consumer expectations rise, regulators are catching up—especially on environmental and ingredient safety claims. Maggie highlights how tighter guidelines around green marketing and tariffs are pushing brands toward better substantiation and supply chain transparency.
Circularity as a Collective Goal
Jo’s Reposit platform is building the infrastructure for reusable, returnable packaging—designed not for one brand but for industry-wide adoption. “No brand can do this alone,” she says. Collaboration and multi-attribute certification (like B Corp or Cradle to Cradle) will become critical tools for driving change.
Standout Quotes
“Consumers aren’t just buying based on claims. They’re buying based on proof.” – Jo Chidley
“The next wave of innovation is about making better daily products that consumers actually want to use.” – Mallory Huron
“Biotech gives us the tools to meet demand without compromising the planet.” – Maggie Spicer
Listen and Learn
Discover how personal care is evolving from basic hygiene to a sophisticated, sustainability-driven space.
🎧 Listen now for fresh insights on ingredient innovation, consumer expectations, regulation, and what’s coming next.
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Discover What’s Next in Sun Protection
In this episode of the Global Cosmetics News Podcast, host Siobhan Murphy explores the rapidly evolving suncare landscape. With global temperatures rising and consumer demand shifting, the category is on track to grow from €20 billion to a projected €177 billion globally. But is the industry ready?
Joining Siobhan to discuss the innovations, challenges, and opportunities in suncare are:
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Jennifer O’Hara, Technical Marketing Manager at INOLEX
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Sarah Dudley, CEO of The Sunscreen Company
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Sandra Brown, Director of Regulatory Affairs at Brown & Associates Consulting
Key Highlights
Skinification Meets Sun Protection Consumers increasingly want SPF that looks, feels, and functions like skincare. Brands are now bridging skincare and suncare, with hybrid products offering lightweight textures, long-term skin benefits, and protection against UV and environmental aggressors.
The Innovation Push While Gen Z and indie brands drive aesthetic-led demand, real breakthroughs are coming from behind the scenes. INOLEX has launched a new dispersing agent to improve the sensory profile of mineral sunscreens. Biotech-powered ingredients like tarula oil are also reshaping how we think about sustainability and efficacy.
Regulatory Flux Sandra Brown highlights the regulatory complexities facing UV filters and green claims. While new in vitro testing methods offer better reproducibility, shifting standards and consumer confusion continue to challenge brands and regulators alike.
Sustainability Gets Serious From feedstock transparency to carbon footprint measurement, sustainability is becoming central to innovation. INOLEX’s farm visits and efforts in biodegradable ingredient design point to the growing demand for more ethical sourcing.
Education: The Next Frontier All panelists agree: better consumer education—especially for Gen Z and Gen Alpha—is critical. Sunscreens must be easy to use and appealing, but users need to understand the value of daily protection beyond aesthetics.
Standout Quotes
“Aesthetics are the sugar that makes the medicine go down—but sunscreen is medicine.” – Sarah Dudley
“We predict the next wave of sustainability will be about measuring carbon footprint and feedstock transparency.” – Jennifer O’Hara
“Consumers aren’t using enough sunscreen. Education, not just claims, is key.” – Sandra Brown
Listen and Learn
This episode offers a comprehensive look at the state of suncare today—and where it’s headed next. Tune in for:
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Ingredient innovation that enhances performance and feel
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How to navigate evolving regulatory frameworks
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Sustainability strategies that actually work
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Insights into Gen Z behavior and SPF education
🎧 Listen now and stay ahead of the next wave in sun protection.