In today's information-driven era, we are witnessing a transformation in consumer behavior indicative of a more informed and discerning consumer base. People are increasingly conscious of what they expose their bodies to and are mindful of the impact of physical, mental, and spiritual stress on their overall well-being. As a result, consumers are veering away from unsubstantiated claims and are demanding scientific and clinical evidence to support the assertions made by brands. Moreover, we are observing a shift in online search patterns, with a decrease in general queries and a surge in specific ingredient and benefit-related searches at the onset of the customer journey.
Purpose-driven cosmetic ingredients represent a holistic approach to beauty, as they are selected not just for their functional benefits—such as moisturizing, anti-aging, or skin protection—but also for their alignment with environmental, ethical, and health-conscious goals and broader values like sustainability, ethical sourcing, and wellness. This shift in focus reflects a growing consumer desire for transparency and responsibility in product formulations.
One major aspect of purpose-driven ingredients is sustainability. Many beauty brands are moving toward using plant-based, biodegradable, or renewable resources from organic farming to minimize their environmental impact as well as lower carbon footprints. For example, dsm-firmenich’s Vitamin E carries the lowest environmental footprint in the industry. Utilizing 100 tons of Quali-E would save 3,200 tons of CO2, a saving equivalent to the entire amount of carbon sequestered by 82,000 tree seedlings grown for 10 years.
Yet another example of sustainable manufacturing practices would be how dsm-firmenich’s D-Panthenol is manufactured at their plant located in Dalry, Scotland, which produces green electricity for its own use and exports to the national grid powering 30,000 homes.
Additionally, companies are turning to upcycled materials—byproducts from other industries—such as rice husk or sugar cane, ensuring that waste is minimized, and resources are utilized to their fullest extent. Dow’s EcoSmooth Rice Husk Cosmetic Powder is an upcycled, naturally derived silica from rice husk, the ingredient of choice for the eco-conscious consumer seeking optical soft focus and sensorial benefits, while helping reduce the environmental impact by supporting a more circular beauty that is good for our skin and for the planet.
Ethical sourcing is another key component. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the origins of the ingredients in their products, particularly in relation to labor practices and community welfare. Fair trade-certified ingredients are often incorporated into products to ensure that farmers and workers are paid fairly and work in safe conditions. This aspect ties into the broader trend of social responsibility, where brands are expected to contribute positively to the communities from which they source their materials. Inolex “conscious science” philosophy encompasses a broad range of principles, from green chemistry and ingredients’ life cycles to responsible procurement that respects both human and environmental impact.
