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Innovating Color Cosmetics - The Future of Beauty in 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:

• Florence Roghé, Founder of Collateral Projects

• Benjamin Droguet, CEO of Sparxell

• 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.

Innovating Personal Care - The Future of Beauty in 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:

• Mallory Huron, Director of Beauty & Wellness at Future Snoops

• Jo Chidley, Founder of Beauty Kitchen and Reposit

• 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

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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.

Innovating Sun Care – The Future of Beauty in 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:

• Jennifer O’Hara, Technical Marketing Manager at INOLEX

• Sarah Dudley, CEO of The Sunscreen Company

• Sandra Brown, Director of Regulatory Affairs at Brown & Associates Consulting

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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.

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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

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Listen and Learn

This episode offers a comprehensive look at the state of suncare today—and where it’s headed next. Tune in for:

• Ingredient innovation that enhances performance and feel

• How to navigate evolving regulatory frameworks

• Sustainability strategies that actually work

• Insights into Gen Z behavior and SPF education

🎧 Listen now and stay ahead of the next wave in sun protection.

 

Innovating Skincare – The Future of Beauty in 2025

Redefining Skincare Innovation

In this episode of the Global Cosmetics News Podcast, host Siobhan Murphy explores the latest breakthroughs, challenges, and consumer trends shaping the future of skincare innovation. With insights from top industry experts, we uncover why skincare innovation is slowing down despite growing consumer demand and how biotechnology, sustainability, and advanced testing methods are transforming formulations.

Expert Panel:

🎙 Harald van der Hoeven – Director of Product Design & Development, CLR Berlin

🎙 Dr. Carol Treasure – Founder & CEO, XCellR8

🎙 Dr. Tiina Meder – CEO & Founder, Meder Beauty

Key Highlights

📈 Consumer Shifts: The Rise of Skin Health & Longevity

• The demand for barrier-focused skincare and longevity-enhancing formulations continues to grow.
• Consumers seek science-backed, values-driven brands with transparency in ingredients and ethics.
• The influence of Asian beauty trends is reshaping global skincare innovation.

🔬 The Science of Skincare: Biotechnology & AI in Formulations

• Biotechnology innovations, such as precision fermentation and bio-mimicry, are driving next-gen skincare solutions.
• AI-powered tools are helping brands offer personalized skincare and diagnostics for improved efficacy.
• New testing methodologies are ensuring safer, more effective products without animal testing.

🌿 Sustainability in Skincare: Progress or Setback?

• Greenwashing vs. Real Sustainability – The challenge of eco-friendly packaging, carbon footprints, and ethical sourcing.
• The shift towards locally sourced ingredients to reduce environmental impact.
• The rise of concentrated formulations that reduce overconsumption and waste.

⚖️ Navigating Regulations & Ethical Beauty

• Are outdated cosmetic regulations hindering innovation? Experts argue for more agility in safety assessments.
• The debate on active ingredients and their physiological effects—how should regulations evolve?
• Why "Not Tested on Animals" doesn’t mean "Not Tested at All"—ensuring ethical yet scientifically sound testing.

🎯 Market Trends: The Future of Skincare Innovation

• Peptides, probiotics, and microbiome-friendly ingredients are gaining traction.
• Longevity skincare is emerging as a major anti-aging category.
• Skincare devices & wearables, such as LED masks and AI-powered skin analysis, are set to revolutionize the industry.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now!

Innovating Hair Care - The Future of Beauty in 2025

Discover 2025’s top hair care trends, from AI-powered personalization to sustainable innovations. Learn from industry experts shaping the future of hair care.

Panelists

• Mallory Huron – Director of Beauty & Wellness, Fashion Snoops
• Kameese Davis – CEO/Founder, Nylah Naturals
• Emma Heathcote-James – Founder, The Little Soap Company
• Jennifer O'Hara – Technical Marketing Manager, Inolex

Key Themes in Hair Care Innovation

Consumer Trends

Consumers embrace hair care rituals, personalized routines, and multifunctional products tailored to scalp and hair health.

Technology Innovations

AI-powered hair analysis, heat tools that prevent damage, and biotech-driven formulations lead the way in 2025 hair care trends.

Sustainability Focus

Waterless, concentrated, and solid hair care formats gain traction as brands work toward eco-friendly shampoo and conditioner packaging and ethical sourcing.

Regulatory Challenges

New ingredient restrictions and evolving packaging regulations push brands to innovate responsibly while ensuring gentle hair care formulations.

What You’ll Learn

• How TikTok beauty trends and Gen Z are redefining personalized hair care.
• The role of AI in beauty industry and scalp health solutions.
• Why sustainability in packaging and formulation is crucial for future success.
• The impact of evolving regulations on silicone-free hair care products.

Cosmetics Industry Trends for 2025

Explore the latest cosmetics industry trends for 2025 in this episode of the Global Cosmetics News Podcast with Siobhan Murphy. Joined by industry expert Arnita Wofford, this insightful discussion unpacks the major consumer, technology, environmental, and financial trends shaping the future of beauty.

Key Themes

• Consumer Trends: Self-expression, natural formulations, and local sourcing are at the forefront, with a rise in plant-based and sustainable products.
• Technology Innovations: AI-powered personalization, accessible diagnostics, and the growth of tech-infused men's beauty products are redefining the industry.
• Environmental Challenges: Despite increasing consumer demand, progress toward sustainability faces economic and regulatory hurdles.
• Financial Dynamics: Global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical challenges, like tariffs, may push companies toward sustainable practices.

What You’ll Learn

• How self-expression and cultural influences are reshaping consumer behavior.
• The impact of AI and blockchain on beauty innovation and personalization.
• Why inclusivity and dermatology diversity remain essential for brand evolution.
• Strategies to address the carbon footprint and environmental accountability in cosmetics.

2024 in Review

What to Expect in This Episode

 

From groundbreaking advancements in technology to the rising demand for sustainability and inclusivity, 2024 proved to be a pivotal year for the beauty sector. This episode dives deep into the defining moments and asks the big questions:

 

• Who were the winners and losers of 2024?
• How did brands navigate evolving consumer demands?
• What’s next for the industry?
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Meet the Panel of Experts

 

• Arnita Wofford, Chief Marketing Officer at Sweetch
• Amarjit Sahota, Founder of Ecovia Intelligence
• Armaan Mehta, Co-Founder Odore

 

Together, they explore topics such as the cost-of-living crisis, greenwashing, AI-driven innovation, sustainability regulations, and the power of community-driven marketing.

 

 

Highlights from the Discussion

 

Consumer Challenges in 2024

 

The panel explored the biggest hurdles brands faced in engaging with today’s informed and demanding consumers:

 

• Transparency and Trust: Consumers now demand full transparency about ingredients, supply chains, and sustainability efforts.
• Cost-of-Living Crisis: Financial pressures forced shoppers to scrutinize every purchase, driving demand for multifunctional, high-value products.
• Overconsumption and Greenwashing: Confusing claims around "sustainability" left consumers questioning what green truly means.

 

Technical Challenges and Innovations

The cosmetics industry walked a fine line between innovation and practicality:

 

• Ingredient Innovation: Arnita highlighted the ongoing challenge of balancing natural ingredients with performance and environmental impact.
• AI and Biotechnology: Amarjit pointed to AI’s growing role in customization, formulation, and consumer research, alongside breakthroughs in sustainable ingredient production through biotechnology.
• Content at Scale: Armaan noted the increasing reliance on content creators and user-generated content, pushing brands to find scalable solutions to engage consumers authentically.
•  

Environmental and Regulatory Challenges

 

As sustainability took center stage, the panel shared insights into the environmental and regulatory pressures shaping the future:

 

• Packaging Challenges: Single-use plastics remain a significant obstacle, with innovations like refillables, bioplastics, and circular design gaining traction.
• EU Regulations: Amarjit discussed Europe’s new sustainability standards, including the EU Green Claims Directive, which requires scientific evidence for all environmental claims.
• Responsible Consumption: Arnita emphasized the need for education and better messaging to address overconsumption trends driven by "performance beauty."

 

Key Takeaways: 2024 in Summary

 

Each panelist shared their perspective on what defined 2024 for their corner of the industry:

 

• Arnita Wofford: "2024 was a sprint towards a more positive impact for the future. Despite challenges, biotech and technology continue to fuel innovation."
• Amarjit Sahota: "It was a mixed year. Consumers are more informed but still confused by greenwashing. The future lies with sustainable brands that walk the talk."
• Armaan Mehta: "Community was the key theme in 2024. Brands that fostered authentic connections through user-generated content thrived."

 

Creating Cosmetics : Derma Cosmetics

Episode Overview: What Are Derma Cosmetics?

In recent years, "derma cosmetics" has become a buzzword in the beauty industry, and 2024 has seen this term reach new heights. But what exactly are derma cosmetics, and what sets them apart from traditional skincare?

Derma cosmetics are specially formulated skincare products that utilize advanced active ingredients to target and treat specific skin concerns. These products are designed to bridge the gap between medical skincare and everyday beauty routines, offering consumers targeted solutions for complex skin conditions.

Join host Siobhan Murphy, Publishing Director at Global Cosmetics News, as she explores the world of derma cosmetics with two distinguished industry experts.

 

Meet the Panelists

• Julia Durack
  VP of Research and Product Development at Symbiome
  Representing the pioneering microbiome skincare brand from the United States, Julia Durack brings her expertise in research and product development. Symbiome has been at the forefront of integrating microbiome science into skincare, offering products that promote skin health at a deeper level.

• Dr. Tiina Meder
  CEO and Founder of Meder by Tiina Meder
  From Europe, Dr. Tiina Meder leads Meder by Tiina Meder, a microbiome-friendly skincare brand. With years of experience in the industry, Dr. Meder shares insights into how her brand approaches skincare with a science-backed, microbiome-friendly focus.

Key Topics Discussed

• The Rise of Derma Cosmetics
  What has led to the popularity of derma cosmetics in 2024, and why are more consumers and brands embracing this trend?

• Understanding Advanced Ingredients
  Discover the advanced active ingredients that differentiate derma cosmetics from standard skincare products and how these ingredients are used to address complex skin issues.

• Microbiome in Skincare
  Both Symbiome and Meder by Tiina Meder incorporate microbiome science into their products. Learn why the microbiome is essential for skin health and how it shapes the development of new products.

• Challenges and Opportunities in the Industry
  From misinformation to regulatory challenges, Julia and Dr. Meder discuss the obstacles facing brands today. They also explore the importance of consumer education and the role it plays in the success of derma cosmetics.

Creating Cosmetics: Menopausal Skin

In this episode of In Conversation With, we explore a market the cosmetics industry has largely overlooked—menopausal women. According to a 2020 report by venture capital firm Female Founders Fund, around one billion women are expected to be in menopause by 2025, with business opportunities projected at US$600 billion. So why has the cosmetics industry been slow to tap into this growing market?

Join us as Harold Van der Hoeven, Director of Product Design and Development at CLR Berlin, Wizz Selvey, Co-Founder of Valerie, and Susanna Hancock, Founder and GenXer, discuss the challenges and potential for future product innovations. From ingredients and efficacy to consumer demands, this insightful conversation dives deep into where the real opportunities lie for brands looking to serve this demographic.

Listen in to learn how the industry can better address the needs of menopausal women and capitalize on this enormous opportunity.

Creating Cosmetics: Melanin Skin

Although people of color make up 40% of the U.S. population, brands targeting melanin-rich skin contribute to less than 3% of total beauty industry revenues, according to a McKinsey report. So, where has the beauty industry fallen short?

 

This month, Arnita Wofford, Chief Marketing Officer at Sweetch, and Siobhan Murphy, Publishing Director at Global Cosmetics Media, explore the crucial investment, innovation, and talent the industry must prioritize to serve this growing market effectively.