Intelligence agency Mintel has highlighted blue algae, pumpkin and Bakuchiol as the year’s biggest breakout ingredients in their Global New Products Database. Here’s a quick overview of each one to get you more familiar with these buzzworthy beauty ingredients.
Blue algae
Blue algae, an edible ingredient, is packed with B vitamins, amino acids, fatty acids and minerals that make it every skincare junkie’s dream. “It boosts skin moisture by preventing water loss, and is rich in antioxidant vitamins and minerals, which contribute to the elimination of free radicals within the skin,” explains beauty expert and Mintel blog contributor, Jo Lawlor.
More specifically, the amino and fatty acids help lift and tighten skin and the ingredient’s water-based nature provides deep hydration which minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Products that contain this ingredient will likely have one of the following included on the back of the packaging: blue algae, blue-green algae, cyanobacteria and spirulina.
Products containing blue algae: La Prairie Anti-Aging Night Cream, Sukin Super Greens - Nutrient Rich Facial Moisturiser, Prologic Hydrating Spray, Skin Republic Detox Charcoal +10 Superfood Formula Face Sheet Mask
Pumpkin
"Pumpkin enzymes have been long used as a natural and safe exfoliant improving skin texture and cell turnover, but the full potential of this fruit is still untapped," says Lawlor.
Mintel puts its recent popularity down to being vegan and a superfood – both perfect for capturing consumers looking for natural ingredients that will 'feed' their skin.
Also known by its latin name ‘cucurbita', global facial skincare launches containing the ingredient ‘pumpkin’ increased from 20.7% in 2017 to 26.5% in 2018, according to Mintel.
Products containing pumpkin: Essano Superfoods Cinnamon Purifying Gel Cleanser, Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel
Bakuchiol
Bakuchiol is a plant-based natural retinol analogue and is used to boost collagen and elastin production. Unlike retinol however, it is shot-stable and more suitable for sensitive skin.
Says Lawlor of this ingredient: "Already used by some brands, we are confident that Bakuchiol will start trending this year and we will see it in more mainstream skincare launches."
Words: Lauren Meisner
