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Headlines > December 2011

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22-Dec-2011

Special Edition

CosmeticsDesign-Europe.com’s Top 5 stories of 2011

This year was another big one for the cosmetics industry with sun care, nanotechnology, advertising and a whole load of other issues under the spotlight. Here we take a look at some of the big-hitting stories of 2011.

News in brief

Happy Holidays from the Cosmetics Design Europe team!

Cosmetics Design Europe would like to wish our readers a Happy Holiday!

21-Dec-2011

Silab jump on the artichoke bandwagon with its new anti-ageing active

Silab are the latest company to focus on the benefits of the Artichoke plant by launching Menofit, an active specifically for menopausal skin.

Lonza takes the gold for Best Ingredient at in-cosmetics Asia

Switzerland-based specialty chemicals company Lonza won the Best Ingredients gold award at in-cosmetics Asia for its Regenistem red rice ingredient.

Dispatches from Microbiota 2011

Unilever: industry faces a challenge to reduce academia-industry gap when it comes to skin health

One of the big challenges for the cosmetics and personal care industry is to match the science academics are providing and incorporate into industry practices according to consumer goods giant Unilever.

News in brief

Nivea turns to Facebook to offer consumers a personalised gift service

Nivea UK is utilising its social media presence this holiday season, to offer consumers personalised gift wrapping on any gift packs purchased.

20-Dec-2011

L’Oréal targets growth opportunity in Brazil with research and innovation investment

L’Oréal is looking to build on its presence in Brazil having signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the state and city of Rio de Janeiro to build a new Research and Innovation Center.

MWV targets emerging markets and customer relationships to boost personal care

Virginia-based packaging firm MeadWestvaco (MWV) will focus on customer partnerships, new innovation, and targeting emerging markets as part of its profitable growth strategies to boost its personal care business.

PCD unveils combined packaging and dispensing conference programme

The PCD 2012 Congress will open its doors in Paris on February 8th with a conference programme that will combine presentations for both packaging and aerosol dispensing for the first time.

Solev awarded for fragrance pack at packaging Oscars

French cosmetics packaging firm Solev has been awarded a packaging Oscar in two categories for its fragrance pack for Acqua di Gioia Essenza by Armani at the Oscar de L’emballage ceremony.

News in brief

Sudarshan inks deal for Eckart’s natural mica pearlescent business

Germany-based Eckart’s Effect Pigments division of Altana has agreed to sell the natural mica pearlescent business for Cosmetics to Sudarshan Chemical Industries.

Unilever given the all clear to buy out Kalina as its emerging market push continues

Consumer goods giant Unilever could end the year on a high after the Russian Federal Antimonopoly Service granted it permission to acquire Russia’s biggest cosmetics manufacturer, boosting the company’s presence in emerging markets.

19-Dec-2011

P&G vows to never show misleading mascara ad again following Photoshop allegations

Procter and Gamble has vowed not to print adverts for its CoverGirl Nature Luxe Mousse Mascara again after a US advertising watchdog stated it had misleadingly used Photoshop to alter images.

16-Dec-2011

Dispatches from Microbiota 2011

Skin equivalent model could replace need for clinical trials in the future

In development over the last 12 months, UK-based company Evocutis has developed its LabSkin in vitro skin models, to support antimicrobial and skin microbe balancing product claims, which could, in time, replace clinical trials.

Dispatches from Microbiota 2011

Nutrigenetics “was clearly a too-focused approach”, says nutrigenomicist

Studying the inter-relation between nutritional inputs and genetics has expanded quickly from five or 10 human genes to five or ten thousand or more. But is that a useful leap?

Clariant launches Quiospheres for everyday cosmetotextiles

Global textile solutions provider, Clariant has developed Quiospheres microcapsules in a joint partnership with Lipotec, an expert in the micro-encapsulation of luxury cosmetics.

Beiersdorf scientists show creatine benefits in anti-ageing and skin care products

A group of scientists from Beiersdorf Research and Development have completed research that states that the nitrogenous organic acid creatine could represent a beneficial active ingredient for topical use in the prevention and treatment of human skin ageing.

15-Dec-2011

L’Oréal, Henkel and Yves Rocher all recognised for sustainable palm oil commitment

Finished goods manufacturers L’Oréal, Henkel and Yves Rocher have all top scored in the latest WWF Palm Oil Buyers Scorecard, which measures the performance of 132 major retailers and consumer goods manufacturers against 4 areas which show whether these companies are acting responsibly.

Stable Vitamin C Provides Potency to Collagen Boosting Products

New discoveries of natural potent sources of Vitamin C are making their way into collagen boosting, lightening skin care products. These effective ingredients are raising the bar for clinical claims of lightening and collagen synthesis.

Surface properties of shampoo affected by the way surfactant systems are handled

Scientists based in France studying the surface tension of surfactant mixtures have found that the dramatic increase in tension that affects the production of cosmetic formulations such as shampoo is caused by the comprehensive aggregation of active ingredients.

News in brief

KahlWax announces two key executive appointments

Germany-based wax ingredients specialist has announced two new key executive appointments at its Trittau, near Hamburg headquarters.

Dispatches from Microbiota 2011

Genomics fires Microbiota 2011 to new heights

Mapping the microbiome and the increasing sophistication of gene sequencing and analysis have in just a few years completely changed the research landscape for microbiota, and looks set to answer many to-date unresolved ‘mechanism of action’ questions.

14-Dec-2011

Dispatches from Microbiota 2011

Researchers close in on the ‘black box’ of bacterial vaginosis

Dr Jacques Ravel, one the world’s leading vaginal microbia researchers, says revelations about differing ‘community types’ of vaginal bacteria could drastically improve treatments for the common condition, vaginosis.

UK multinational retailers score low in organic monitor report

In a Natural Cosmetics Brand Assessment report recently carried out by Organic Monitor, a chartered chemist analysed the ingredient composition of cosmetic products of over 50 brands that make natural and / or organic claims, finding that “many brands do not live up to its marketing claims”.

P&G discovers shampoo formulation to help consumers with dyed hair avoid bad hair days

A team of researchers at consumer goods giant Procter and Gamble have discovered that creating a liquid crystal colloidal structure in a shampoo formulation can significantly enhance the deposition of silicone conditioning actives onto oxidatively damaged color-treated hair.

Scientists find samphire cell biomass may have skin repair and anti-aging benefits

Scientists have discovered that samphire cell biomass extracted from the Crithmum maritimum wild plant found throughout Europe and North Africa may be helpful in skin repair and anti-aging products.

Latest colour cosmetics launches draw on trend for bright and bold packaging

Recently launched mascara packs by HCP and lip gloss applicators by Albéa draw on the trend for big and bright colour cosmetics packaging which attract more consumers.

The gloves are off: GSK complaints lead to UK ad ban for Colgate

A selection of TV, print and online adverts for Colgate Palmolive’s Sensitive Pro-Relief toothpastes have been banned in the UK following complaints, notably from rival oral care firm GlaxoSmithKline.

13-Dec-2011

Nutricosmetic product launched in Asia in response to consumer demand

UK-based Works with Water Nutraceuticals is launching its nutricosmetics product to the Asian market in December 2011 in response to consumer demand.

Dispatches from Microbiota 2011

Big future forecast for pre- and probiotics

The Boston-based Human Microbiome Project is three years into a five-year project that is throwing up revelations about how human microorganisms behave – and its leader predicts a big future for pre- and probiotics.

Lubrizol acquires specialty chemicals firm Active Organics

Ohio-based Lubrizol has acquired specialty chemicals firm Active Organics in a move that expands its operations in the botanical extracts and natural performance ingredients market.

Boom in Indian cosmetics market driven by changing socio-economic climate – research

The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) says that rapidly changing socio-economic conditions there could see the market for cosmetics double by 2014.

News in brief

SILAB is elected winner of all winners in cosmetic category

SILAB, the international supplier of natural active ingredients to the cosmetics industry, has been named the winner of all winners in the cosmetics category by the Institut National de la Propriété Industrielle (INPI).

Unlucky-for-some but not Inter Parfums as it inks 13 year license agreement

Inter Parfums has entered into a 13 year worldwide license agreement with fellow French firm La Maison Repetto for the creation, development and distribution of fragrances under the latter’s ‘Repetto’ brand.

Fragrance apps are a way for the industry to reach out to consumers

According to spokesperson Linda Harman for Givaudan UK, mobile apps are a way for industry professionals to cut out the middle man and reach consumers with product information they require on the go.

12-Dec-2011

Packaging still matters to online shoppers

In the online world, the role of packaging and how it links to conventional retail purchasing is constantly evolving. According to Shikatani Lacroix, packaging continues to play a very important role in the online experience.

Study finds it may take years for stabilized emulsions to reach equilibrium

Researchers from Harvard University have discovered that stabilized emulsions which were assumed to reach equilibrium almost instantly may actually take months or even years for particles in oil-water mixture.

09-Dec-2011

EU researchers develop eco-dyes to be used in cosmetic products

SOPHIED, the Sustainable Bioprocesses for the European Colour Industries, an EU funded research project, has developed eco-friendly dyes made from enzymes that can be used to colour cosmetic products.

Beiersdorf turns its focus to accelerating eCommerce sales

Beiersdorf has engaged UK-based Brandbank as part of a concerted drive to up its digital presence and online sales; one of the company’s top business priorities.

Estée Lauder launches anti-ageing cream specifically targeting European women

Estée Lauder has launched an anti-ageing cream specifically targeting European women as they have different needs to women around the world, according to its own consumer research.

News in brief

Fujifilms enters into the European cosmetics and personal care market

Fujifilm is expanding beyond the Asian market with the launch of its skin care line in Europe, planned for February 2012.

Going green adds to costs but boosts opportunity, report

Many personal care companies are currently facing the dilemma of making further investment in sustainability and becoming greener against a backdrop of rising costs and inflation.

08-Dec-2011

Clinique turn to brown algae in the fight against ageing

Clinique have launched a Repairwear Uplifting Firming Cream that contains a new multi-tasking ingredient with properties that assist the skin in slowing down the ageing process.

L’Oréal pips rivals when it comes to addressing climate change, says report

Cosmetics giant L’Oréal has been recognized as the number one company addressing climate change from the household products sector, according to a new report.

News in brief

BASF's VP is “honoured” to be appointed to RIFM’s Board of Directors

Miguel Peña, the vice president of BASF’s Global Business for Aroma Chemicals which is part of the company’s Nutrition & Health division, has been appointed to the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials Inc (RIFM) board of directors.

Symrise research into oral care flavours shows surprising results

Symrise has presented findings from a study on consumer research showing unusual expectations for oral care flavours, at the ESOMAR Qualitative 2011 conference in Vienna.

Clariant receives GMP accreditation for cosmetic sector

Specialty chemicals firm Clariant has achieved global ISO 22716 Cosmetics Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification for its global management system benefitting its products and customers in the personal care industry.

Cosmetics Compact

Cosmetics Compact: Science news, Ashland, L'Oréal, Nanoparticles, Advertising...

Welcome to the Cosmetics Design Compact, brushing up on the latest industry news – in miniature.

07-Dec-2011

Pack Peek

Pack Peek: a look at some of the latest news and highlights in personal care packaging

This gallery takes a look at some of the news and highlights in personal care packaging, focusing on what is trending, and how cosmetic firms are kitting out their latest products.

Asia Pacific leads the way in skin care packaging trends

According to Dr. Benjamin Punchard, the head of global packaging research at Euromonitor International; “Over the 2005-2020 period the fastest growing countries for skin care packaging were Indonesia, China and India.”

Unilever attempts to see off skin care competition with Vaseline revamp

In a crowded and competitive skin care market, consumer giant Unilever has drawn on new packaging and a new formulation of its Vaseline lotions in order to stand out from the crowd.

Beiersdorf moves ahead with final stage of restructuring and axes 1,000 jobs

Beiersdorf has announced the final stage of its restructuring programme, which will include the loss of around 1,000 jobs in its operations worldwide.

06-Dec-2011

Sonoco to expand its blow-molding plastics business

US packaging firm Sonoco has outlined plans to focus on building its blow-molding plastics business in the coming year as part of its strategic and financial update.

Call me Mr Vain: men’s cosmetic consumption keeps on rising

Latest research has shown cosmetic consumption has steadily risen in male consumers, as the need to look and feel good increases with more manufacturers servicing the growing niche by providing cosmetic products aimed specifically at men.

L’Oreal targets growth in the East Africa with new Kenya subsidiary

L’Oreal says it is targeting growth in the East Africa region with the opening of a new subsidiary in Kenya that will form a hub for the company.

News in brief

New tax gets the go ahead on cosmetic company sales in France

The third time proved lucky for Senator Alain Milon, who has been successful after two failed attempts to pass an amendment to tax the sales of cosmetic companies in France.

Oat Cosmetics launches natural hair care ingredient equivalent to synthetic products

UK-based Oat Cosmetics has launched a natural hair care ingredient for maintaining strength and colour of dyed hair that achieves equivalent results to synthetic products.

Joint venture on innovative biotech screening to develop active ingredients

Germany-based biotechnology companies Brain and Autodisplay Biotech are to co-operate on a programme based on a cellular screen system aimed at developing new cosmetic actives.

Growing vitamin use in cosmetic industry to contribute to global market

The global vitamins market is expected to reach new heights by 2017, driven primarily by the positive outlook in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical end-use markets, according to a new report.

05-Dec-2011

Unilever to shut down production facility in Chicago

Anglo-Dutch personal care giant Unilever has announced the decision to shut down its Chicago-based production facility, stating efficient business practices as the reason.

Color cosmetics and nail care boost prestige make-up sales

The growing trends for color cosmetics and nail care continue to drive the total prestige make-up dollar sales in US department stores as figures eclipsed last year’s for the tenth time in 2011.

02-Dec-2011

News in brief

Sun care in-focus at in-cosmetics 2012

As in-cosmetics gears up for its flagship European show next year, show organisers have announced that ‘Solar Beauty’ will be one of the main themes focusing on skin care and sun damage.

Azelis inks exclusive deal in UK and EU to distribute Calumet hydrocarbon products

Chemicals distributor Azelis has entered an exclusive distribution agreement with Calumet Penreco in the UK and Europe to meet global specialty hydrocarbon demand.

New PayPal-Facebook payment app should not influence beauty brands to monetize social media

As global payment giant PayPal launches an application for the Facebook platform, beauty brands should still concentrate more on managing their representation and engaging consumers than trying to monetize social media platforms, according to a Euromonitor expert.

Newly acquired skin care firm targets global expansion

Sydney-based cosmetics company Jurlique International has signed a share purchase agreement with fellow cosmetics firm POLA Orbis Holdings and will target global expansion, building on the existing strength of the two organisations.

01-Dec-2011

Lobby group settles lawsuits over organic cosmetic labeling

Originally 34 separate lawsuits were filed in June of this year on the back of the California Organic Production Act (COPA), which states that such products should contain a minimum of 70 per cent organic certified ingredients.

Chanel wins US court case to de-list counterfeit sites

In the ongoing battle against the sale of counterfeit goods online, one US judge has made the remarkable decision to rule in favor of fashion house Chanel and ordered Google, Bing, Facebook, Twitter and others to delist domain names relating to sites selling fake goods.

New Zealand looks to follow EU as EPA looks to amend standards

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) in New Zealand has called for submissions on a suite of proposed amendments to the Cosmetic Products Group Standard, following changes made to European Union legislation.

Scientists assess safety of nanoparticles in sunscreen using laser imaging

Scientists in Switzerland and Australia have developed a way to optically test the concentration of zinc oxide at different skin depths using laser imaging in an attempt to answer safety questions over nanoparticles used in sunscreen.

Acquisition helps drive RPC sales, further boosted by personal care

RPC has reported strong financial results for its half-yearly period ending September, a figure that was boosted by the acquisition of Superfos and a strong performance in cosmetics and personal care.

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