Packnode’s Post

Is water in your skincare really a bad thing? Is “waterless” skincare really better? One of the biggest skincare trends these days is “waterless” skincare. The main explanation for this trend is that even in expensive skincare products, water is the first ingredient on the list. The top five ingredients on a skincare ingredient label make up about 80% of the product, so what that means is most of the cleansers, serums, lotions, and creams on the market are mostly water. This is true regardless of whether the product is sold online, in drug stores, department stores, beauty specialty stores, big box stores, or health food stores. It’s also true of “professional” products that can only be purchased from spas, salons, or doctors’ offices. It does not matter if the product is conventional, GMO, non-GMO, organic, green, blue, holistic, cruelty-free, vegan, what have you. In the majority of cases, if the product is a clear liquid (like a toner), an emulsion of any kind (lotion or cream), “hydrating” serum, or a clear gel–then it most likely contains some form of water. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/dFcAYa3

Let's talk about Guar Gum vs. Synthetic Gums in Skincare. Guar Gum is a natural polysaccharide, making it a popular choice for eco-conscious formulations. It is commonly found in moisturizers, shampoos, and conditioners. Benefits: Natural Origin: Derived from guar beans. It provides excellent thickening, gelling, and moisturizing properties. Preferred for natural and organic formulations. Charges and Compatibility: Guar Gum is generally neutral, making it compatible with a wide range of other ingredients. This neutral charge helps maintain the stability of formulations and minimizes the risk of unwanted reactions. Sustainability: Biodegradable and derived from renewable resources. Generally considered eco-friendly. Cost Comparison: Generally less expensive than some synthetic gums but can vary based on purity and sourcing. Synthetic Gums: The Man-Made Contenders, widely used across a variety of skincare products, including serums, gels, and sunscreens, due to their versatile properties and performance consistency. Benefits: Synthetic gums like Carbomers, Xanthan Gum and Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) offer high performance in terms of thickening and stabilizing across various pH levels. Customizable for specific formulation needs. Consistency: Synthetic gums often provide more predictable and consistent performance compared to natural gums. Charges and Compatibility: Synthetic gums can be anionic (like Carbomers) or non-ionic (like Xanthan Gum). Anionic gums can interact with positively charged ingredients, potentially leading to compatibility issues. Sustainability: May have a larger environmental footprint due to chemical processing. Some are designed to be more sustainable. Cost Comparison: Can be more expensive due to advanced manufacturing processes and customization. Both Guar Gum and synthetic gums offer valuable benefits for skincare formulations. Guar Gum provides a natural, eco-friendly option with good moisturizing properties and minimal charge issues. On the other hand, synthetic gums offer high performance and innovative, though they may present compatibility challenges depending on their charge characteristics. The choice between these ingredients will depend on market positioning, consumer preferences, and formulation goals. As the skincare industry continues to innovate, understanding these differences can help in crafting products that meet both efficacy and ethical standards. Feel free to share your experiences or insights on using Guar Gum versus synthetic gums in skincare. Let’s keep the conversation going! #Skincare #CosmeticsFormulation #GuarGum #SyntheticGums #NaturalIngredients #InnovationInBeauty #FormulationScience

“Natural skincare is ALWAYS better than regular skincare.” Definitely...NOT.... While natural skincare products are often perceived as safer or gentler than synthetic ones, there are several reasons why this assumption isn't always accurate: Allergic Reactions Natural ingredients can still cause allergic reactions or sensitivities. For instance, essential oils and plant extracts may trigger irritation for some individuals, especially those with sensitive skin. Lack of Regulation The term "natural" is not strictly regulated, meaning that products can be marketed as natural even if they contain synthetic additives. This can lead to misunderstandings about what is actually in the product. Potentially Harmful Ingredients Some natural ingredients, like certain essential oils, can be harmful in high concentrations or if not diluted properly. For example, tea tree oil can cause irritation if used undiluted Preservation Issues Natural products may lack preservatives, making them more prone to contamination and spoilage. This can lead to the growth of bacteria or mold, posing a risk to its users. Efficacy Variability The effectiveness of natural ingredients can vary significantly based on sourcing, processing, and formulation. This inconsistency can affect the product's safety and performance. Misleading Marketing The appeal of natural products can lead to marketing hype that oversells their benefits while downplaying potential risks, which can mislead consumers about safety. Environmental and Ethical Concerns Not all natural ingredients are sustainably sourced, and some may have adverse environmental impacts, leading to ethical concerns about their use.

Unlocking the Power of Snail Secretion Filtrate (Mucin) for Skincare In the world of skincare, innovation often comes from the most unexpected places. One such breakthrough ingredient is Snail Secretion Filtrate, commonly known as mucin. This remarkable substance is transforming skincare routines globally, thanks to its unique properties and benefits. What is Snail Secretion Filtrate? Snail Secretion Filtrate, or mucin, is a complex blend of proteins, glycolic acids, and elastin naturally produced by snails. It’s the same slime that snails use to glide smoothly over various surfaces and protect themselves from environmental hazards. How is it Made? Contrary to common misconceptions, obtaining snail mucin is a cruelty-free process. The snails are placed in a controlled environment where they are free to move and secrete naturally. The mucin is then collected, purified, and filtered to ensure it is safe and beneficial for human use. Ethical producers ensure that no harm comes to the snails during this process, making it a sustainable practice. Benefits for Skin Snail mucin is celebrated for its myriad of skincare benefits: Hydration: Mucin is rich in hyaluronic acid, which helps the skin retain moisture, leading to a plump and hydrated complexion. Anti-Aging: The proteins and glycolic acid in mucin promote the production of collagen and elastin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Healing: Snail mucin has regenerative properties that aid in healing scars, acne, and hyperpigmentation, making the skin look clearer and more even-toned. Protection: It creates a protective barrier on the skin, shielding it from environmental damage and preventing moisture loss. Is it Vegan? While snail mucin is a natural and sustainable ingredient, it is not considered vegan because it is derived from animals. However, it is important to note that ethical harvesting practices ensure the well-being of the snails. In conclusion, snail secretion filtrate is a powerhouse ingredient in modern skincare, offering hydration, anti-aging benefits, healing properties, and protection. As we continue to seek out effective and ethical skincare solutions, snail mucin stands out as a testament to the innovative and sustainable practices shaping the beauty industry.

Discover benefits of waterless skincare formulations for sustainable beauty brands. Learn how the innovatiion promote eco-friendly practices.

PHYSIOLOGY & NATURE: A Balanced Approach to Sustainable Cosmetics In previous reflections, I have often emphasized a concept that, over time, has become more solid: physiology has surpassed mere naturalness. In recent years, the growing interest in the Green Deal has led many companies to focus their innovation and development efforts on sustainable products, starting with their composition, moving through their eco-compatibility (beyond biodegradability), and evaluating their CO2 emissions through careful life cycle analysis. However, we cannot ignore the proliferation of often confusing or imprecise claims on these issues, leading to phenomena like “greenwashing” or assertions lacking objectivity. The matter is delicate, and while future regulations may bring clarity and promote healthy competition, there is a risk that consumers may begin to see everything as “natural” or “biodegradable.” This could undermine the credibility of companies that, with genuine commitment, are pursuing real environmental sustainability goals. As mentioned, more than naturalness is required if not supported by two fundamental elements: performance and scientific validity. These are reflected in the final results, expressed through a “physiology” that stimulates the skin to revitalize itself and maintain its balance. In the skincare sector, attention must shift from hyper-technological or manipulated molecules to natural-origin complexes, scientifically validated, that can promote the essential metabolic processes for skin regeneration. Only in this way is it possible to achieve a naturally healthy appearance through physiology that acts deeply. For example, promoting the synthesis of laminin, integrins, and proteoglycans with effective, scientifically proven natural ingredients is much more significant than simply labeling something as “natural.” We know that skin firmness depends on preserving structural proteins and stimulating fibroblasts to keep the dermis healthy. This is where research must begin, to provide a solid foundation for the promises of truly natural and high-performing products. The goal is clear: to offer the consumer tangible and visible results. To achieve this, we must align with our intrinsic nature, the one tied to our body’s metabolic and enzymatic processes. Formulations must therefore stimulate the body to function as it naturally would if intrinsic and extrinsic factors did not inevitably lead to a slowdown of the physiological processes underlying skin health. So, yes to sustainability and attention to environmental impact, but these efforts must be accompanied by real efficacy. True naturalness in cosmetics is achieved through physiology, avoiding any form of “greenwashing,” to promote products that truly work, respecting both our skin and the planet.

Is fermented skincare the secret to healthier, glowing skin? 🌿 Fermented botanicals are changing the game in beauty, offering advanced solutions for hydration, microbiome balance, and sustainable skincare. In our latest KUNGUL blog, we break down the science and share how these natural powerhouses can transform your routine. Ready to discover the future of skincare? 👇Read more here!

EcoFusion Top 50ml is now available on the market with The Hand Cream by Etat Pur . We are proud to collaborate with Etat Pur, an innovative and eco conscious skincare brand who has selected Albéa’s EcoFusion Top.   With eco design in mind, Etat Pur has decided to reinvent all of the Pure Skincare packaging to make them recyclable and reduce the amount of plastic used. By choosing EcoFusion Top, Etat Pur reduces by 54% the amount of plastic used versus the previous 50ml tube. Teams of packaging experts at Albéa are thrilled to support this committed and ambitious renovation of the Pure Skincare range and to make the new design a reality, on pack and in store, for an impactful result on shelves.   No overpromise but a careful selection of very few ingredients, and above all ingredients inspired by the skin's natural components. Etat Pur is the first skincare brand which decided to separate daily skincare products from targeted active ingredients, to answer every specific need of healthy skins. Consumers are now able to benefit from an ultra-personalized skincare routine, they can choose whether or not to use active ingredients, depending on their skin concerns. The new Pure Skincare range by Etat Pur is made of moisturizing and cleansing daily products, formulated with biomimetic ingredients, in other words ingredients that are similar or close to the components of the skin to preserve its natural balance and ecosystem including its microbiome.  Etat Pur is a NAOS (Bioderma - Institut Esthederm - Etat Pur) brand. Ecobiology is at the heart of NAOS approach to better preserve the skin ecosystem and to strengthen its natural mechanisms. We Love Our Customers https://lnkd.in/enAW8gzJ 🩵

Less means more...Important step in of carbon footprint reduction is to reduce amount of the plastic. Eco Fusion is the best example. It's small step for any of you to move to this solution from classic heavy weight caps, but a big step for Mother Earth. #proundtobeapart