Chinese study links facial lipid shifts to early skin ageing in women
A new lipidomics study of 151 healthy Chinese women has reported clear, age-linked shifts in facial stratum corneum lipids between ages of 19 and 33 years.
Formulation & science
Hot-melt extrusion boosts ferulic acid delivery for skin brightening and repair – study
A South Korean study has presented an eco-friendly way to supercharge ferulic acid in two traditional herbs, Cnidium officinale (CO) and Angelica gigas (AG), using hot-melt extrusion.
Across the CD-Verse: October 2025
This month’s installment of CosmeticsDesigns’ global roundup examines shifting regulatory landscapes, financial news, and breakdowns of industry analysis reporting.
Kao identifies biological mechanism behind skin sensitivity, potential way to ease discomfort
Kao Corporation has uncovered a biological reason for sensitive skin often experiencing stinging or burning sensations despite appearing normal, as well as a potential way to ease these symptoms.
Skin science: Latest stories on cosmetics science and formulation
Dive into our latest stories on formulation and science, featuring research on extracts of peony root, ethanolic plum leaf and honeysuckle flower, efficacy of a new-gen Winona cream, and more.
2D titanium dioxide promises non-white cast, safer UV protection for next-gen sunscreens: Hi!Papa
A two-dimensional (2D) form of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) has the potential to keep skin looking natural while blocking ultraviolet light as effectively as existing mineral filters, according to a Chinese study.
US study connects nasturtium extract to skin-aging improvements
New research highlights the potential of nasturtium extract in reducing skin aging by enhancing cytoglobin levels to combat oxidative stress, improving collagen and elastin synthesis, and boosting immune cell activity.
5 recent breakthroughs in cosmetic science
As researchers explore new biological pathways, ingredient mechanisms, and delivery systems, the gap between cosmetic science and clinical performance continues to narrow.
Grape cell culture viniferin shows in vitro wound healing and barrier support: study
Researchers in South Korea have reported that ε-viniferin — a compound formed when two resveratrol units join — and an ε-viniferin-enriched extract from grape flower cell cultures can help human skin cells repair themselves.
Top 10s: For Beloved One, EVERSOFT, 3CE and other most-read stories from Sep
We highlight the top 10 stories of Sep 2025, including brands like For Beloved One, EVERSOFT and 3CE, trend and investment news, latest research findings, and more.
NMN for hair? Mitsubishi Corporation Life Sciences on “first of its kind” findings
Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) has gained traction as an anti-aging ingredient, but a 12-week study funded by Mitsubishi Corporation Life Sciences - said to be “first of its kind” human clinical trial - showed that it could improve hair health too.
Across the CD-Verse: September 2025
This month’s roundup of CosmeticsDesign’s global coverage includes an in-depth look at scientific developments, sustainable innovation, and notable brand launches.
‘You can’t retrofit skin care’: Why this indie brand is betting on high-pressure processing biotech
Food-grade technology and in-house R&D are helping HPPY Skin rethink antioxidant formulation, founder Hannah Penn told CosmeticsDesign.
Biotech targets men’s skin with exosome-based skin delivery system
Developed in-house by US-based men’s skin care brand Caldera + Lab, the system is designed for deeper penetration for targeted efficacy.
Peony root extract a novel approach to brightening, anti-ageing skin care: Japan study
New research from Japan has identified peony root extract as a multifunctional cosmetic ingredient that can inhibit the interaction between advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their receptor (RAGE), and reduce AGE formation and alleviate skin...
Prunus cerasifera extract found to be stable, safe antioxidant in creams: Thai study
A new study in Thailand has named a specific ethanolic plum leaf extract as a potentially stable, safe antioxidant for use in topical creams to soothe skin irritation.
Honeysuckle flower nanoemulsions show antioxidant, anti-ageing properties: Thai study
Honeysuckle flower (Lonicera japonica Thunb.) extract, formulated into low-energy nanoemulsions with polyglycerol fatty acid esters, offers a sustainable and effective platform for skin health applications, according to new research from Thailand.
Japan study highlights cosmetic and therapeutic potential of multifunctional PEG lipid
A multifunctional ingredient, polyethylene glycol (PEG) 23 glyceryl distearate (GDS-23), has been shown to enhance skin barrier function, moisture retention, and antioxidant activity, according to a new study by researchers at Showa Medical University.
New-gen Winona cream shown to reduce neurovascular hyper-reactivity in sensitive skin
A novel moisturising cream has demonstrated superior efficacy in alleviating pruritus, erythema, and neurovascular hyper-reactivity in people with sensitive skin, according to a new study in China.
Neurocosmetics: A ‘paradigm shift’ for dermatology and cosmetic science
A new clinical study has investigated the potential of neurocosmetics, concluding that it “signals a paradigm shift within dermatology and cosmetic science,” which also brings many complexities for future NPD.
Formula containing CICA exosomes shown to deliver multidimensional anti-ageing effects
A study in South Korea found that the two-week application of a formula containing CICA-derived exosomes produced significant improvements in pore characteristics, hydration, dermal density, and wrinkle depth.
Skin science: Latest stories on cosmetics science and formulation
We dive into our latest stories on formulation and science, featuring the anti-ageing potential of magenta plant and mangosteen peel extracts, application of peptides in cosmetics, Mitsubishi-backed study on a “fairy chemical”, and effects of caffeine...
Across the CD-Verse: July 2025
This roundup highlights the global regulatory actions, innovative ingredient launches, and compelling trend analyses dominating the beauty and personal care industry news cycle.
Thai researchers develop nano-emulsions with magenta plant extract for anti-ageing
Researchers in Thailand have made a breakthrough in developing a plant-based skin care ingredient that shows strong potential in anti-ageing formulations.
Peptides cosmetics boundaries with pharmaceutical-grade innovation: China study
Peptides, or short chains of amino acids, may have the potential to bridge the gap between pharmaceuticals and skin care, according to researchers in China.
The new AI tech that could disrupt the suncare sector
Beauty tech company Haut.AI has just launched disruptive new AI-based technology in the sunscreen sector. We spoke to the CEO and co-founder to find out more.
Mangosteen peel extract has potential to counteract UVA-induced skin ageing – Thai study
A new study conducted by researchers at Burapha University in Thailand has found that an extract from mangosteen peel may offer significant protection against skin ageing caused by UVA radiation.
Fairy chemical AOH shows promise as safe, effective anti-wrinkle ingredient: Mitsubishi-backed study
A new clinical study has confirmed that 2-aza-8-oxohypoxanthine (AOH) can lessen wrinkles by enhancing skin hydration and strengthening the skin barrier, offering cosmetics manufacturers a novel bioactive with measurable anti-ageing effects.
Across the CD-Verse: June 2025
Innovation, acquisition, and regulation defined the beauty business this month across all regions.
Caffeine and adenosine shampoo reshapes scalp microbiome, lipid profile to fight hair loss
A 12-week clinical trial in China has found that a shampoo containing caffeine and adenosine not only reduces hair shedding but also changes the scalp’s microbiome and lipid composition.
Adaptogen botanical blend shows skin anti-aging effects
A new study reveals that a blend of flowering plants, sea kelp, vitamins and minerals can help with skin anti-aging and inflammation reduction.
Skin science: Latest stories on cosmetics science and formulation
We dive into our latest stories on formulation and science, featuring LG H&H’s ingredient modified from a traditional herbal medicine, Amorepacific’s joint research with Johns Hopkins, hair health benefits of Asian plantain, and more.
Australia’s CUTISÉ capitalises on ‘underuse’ of astaxanthin in anti-ageing skin care
Australian cosmeceutical brand CUTISÉ is capitalising on the under-tapped skin care benefits of astaxanthin, which has shown to be significantly more powerful than widely used antioxidants.
Across the CD-Verse: May 2025
Compliance and consumer trust emerged as key themes in the global beauty market this month, amid growing pressure to clarify claims, tighten sourcing, and prevent the sale of counterfeit goods.
Pilot study suggests topical nano-CBD shows potential for UV-A defense
The researchers’ findings may inform new formulation strategies for proactive skin care and sun care product R&D.
Formula modified from longevity medicine exhibits anti-ageing properties – study
A study funded by LG Household & Health Care (LG H&H) has found an ingredient formulation modified from traditional herbal medicine Gongjin-dan to possess several anti-ageing properties.
Amorepacific backs slow-ageing, immune response efficacy through joint research
Amorepacific has backed the slow-ageing and immune response efficacy of two of its proprietary ingredients through joint research with Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in the US.
5 new findings in skin care science
We take a look at some of the latest scientific research...
Topical DHA and EPA has pro-resolution effects on skin inflammation, says new research
Extensive research shows DHA and EPA have pro-resolution effects on skin inflammation, barrier function and wound healing.
Shampoo containing Asian plantain provides hair health benefits, cuts shedding - RCT
A shampoo containing Asian plantain (Plantago asiatica L.) has been shown to exhibit hair health benefits in adults, according to a new RCT.
Study explores social media’s growing influence on cosmeceutical trends
Researchers combed through nearly two decades of Google search spikes in conjunction with recent TikTok view data to better understand the “growing curiosity in cosmeceuticals, with interest correlating with consumers’ views on social media.”
Peptide progress: New ginseng extracts identified with anti-ageing skin care potential
A combination of pharmacology, machine learning, and experimental validation has revealed key ginseng peptide extracts (GPEs) that have potential as an anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing agent for skin care products.
Grapefruit and rosemary supplement offers UV photoprotection: Study
New research highlights the synergistic power of grapefruit and rosemary extracts in shielding the skin from UV damage and accelerating recovery from sunburn.
Tech Talk Q&A: Why virtual twins are the next big step for cosmetics and personal care manufacturers and suppliers
From reducing animal testing to optimizing ingredient sourcing, virtual twin technology has the potential to unlock faster product innovation and a smarter supply chain for beauty industry stakeholders.
Across the CD-Verse: April 2025
While the US tariff policy shifts dominated global headlines this month, other beauty and personal care industry highlights from CosmeticsDesign global included ingredient innovations, coverage of this month’s in-Cosmetics Global trade show, and more.
Skin science: Latest stories on cosmetics science and formulation
We dive into our latest stories on formulation and science, featuring L’Oréal’s natural solution for acne, and the skin care potential of a marine-derived compound, rice fermentation products, Lebanese grape seed extract, and tree peony callus extract.
Astaxanthin for skin: More than your average antioxidant?
Often referred to as the “king of carotenoids”, astaxanthin is touted as one of the most powerful antioxidants, with 6,000 times the potency of vitamin C and 100 times that of vitamin E.
What’s next for longevity in beauty?
Longevity, defined as extending lifespan while maintaining health and appearance, has emerged as key trend in 2025. This sector is evolving rapidly, with current developments indicating significant potential for future growth and innovation in the beauty...
Exploring the gut-skin axis for skin care innovation
Digestive microbiota is increasingly associated with a host of health issues—including skin diseases—and is even being linked to climate change. We delve into the latest research and innovation in this sector.
PCHi 2025
Trautec eyes strong potential for tFNAs amid China’s medical device boom
Trautec sees significant potential for tetrahedral framework nucleic acids (tFNAs) as China’s medical device market experiences rapid growth.