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While the cosmetics industry, its trends, and its beauty standards have long been dominated by major global brands, recent years have seen the rise of a new force in the beauty world: independent cosmetics brands. These daring companies have conquered the hearts of consumers by offering unique, authentic and environmentally friendly products. In this article, we will explore the emergence of these independent cosmetic brands, the reasons for their growing success, and the challenges they face.

Before we dive deeper into this topic, let’s clarify what an independent cosmetics brand really is. In simple terms, an independent cosmetics brand is a business that operates on its own, without being affiliated with a large corporation or conglomerate. These brands often operate on a small scale, focusing on quality rather than quantity. Unlike traditional big brands, independent brands are often the fruit of the passion and vision of their founders.

Today’s natural cosmetics enthusiasts are increasingly aware of the ingredients present in the cosmetic products they use. They are looking for natural alternatives without harmful ingredients for their skin and the environment. Independent cosmetic brands have been able to meet this demand by offering cleaner formulations that respect nature and care about the health of their customers.

Large brands can seem impersonal and standardized, as consumers increasingly seek personalized and authentic experiences. Independent cosmetic brands have the advantage of being able to interact directly with their customers, establishing closer ties and creating a unique experience.

Social networks have radically transformed the way cosmetic brands promote themselves and reach their audience. As a result, independent brands that have seized this opportunity have been able to capitalize on this boom. By using digital platforms to tell their story, they share their ethos and create a loyal community of supporters.

Due to their smaller size, independent brands can spend more time and effort researching and developing higher quality products. Their commitment to innovation and creativity often results in unique formulations and high performing products.

Independent cosmetic brands are often pioneers when it comes to sustainability and ethics. They care about the environmental impact of their production, favoring eco-responsible packaging and nature-friendly manufacturing practices.

The benefit of being a small-scale business is the ability to build closer relationships with customers. Independent brands place a high value on customer satisfaction, offering personalized and attentive customer service.

Independent cosmetics brands have to compete with industry giants who have huge marketing budgets and global recognition. Nonetheless, their unique differentiation and commitment to ethics sets them apart.

Small-scale production can sometimes be a challenge for independent brands, as it can lead to higher costs. Likewise, distribution can be more complex, but strategic partnerships and online sales channels can help overcome these obstacles.

Establishing a significant presence in the market requires constant efforts to increase brand awareness and gain consumer trust. Well-thought-out marketing campaigns and transparent communication can be crucial to their success. Discover our article on Digital Marketing in the world of cosmetics.

At Prodigia, our formulas are composed of at least 95% natural ingredients and are developed in accordance with Cosmos standards.

Need advice? Contact Prodigia!

“Skin minimalism” or simple and effective beauty!

14 August 2023

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In a cosmetic world saturated with trends, “Skin Minimalism” stands out for its simple and natural approach to skin care. By focusing on the essential steps and eliminating superfluous steps, this approach allows you to take care of your skin effectively while simplifying your daily routine. In this article, we’ll explore the principles of Skin Minimalism, its benefits for skin health, compare it to other trends, and find out how to adopt this approach in our daily lives:

1. Understanding Skin Minimalism:

Skin minimalism can be defined as an approach to skincare that focuses on the essentials and eliminates unnecessary steps. This philosophy encourages getting rid of useless or less effective products, and opting for a simple and effective routine.

The Skin Health Benefits of Skin Minimalism: By reducing the number of products applied to the skin, this approach minimizes the risk of irritation and allergies. By focusing on essential care, the skin can regain its natural balance and radiance.

Comparison to Other Skincare Trends: Skin minimalism stands apart from the trend of multi-step skincare routines that can sometimes overload the skin with too many products. By focusing on a few key steps, this technique promotes a gentler, skin-friendly approach.

2. The Key Steps of Skin Minimalism:

Identifying the Essential Steps of a Minimalist Skincare Routine: A minimalist skincare routine generally consists of three essential steps: cleansing, moisturizing and sun protection. These three steps make it possible to take care of the skin on a daily basis without overloading it with unnecessary products.

Tips for choosing simple and effective products adapted to each skin type: When you opt for skin minimalism, it is important to choose quality products, adapted to your skin type. While prioritizing simplicity and effectiveness, look for products with natural ingredients and avoid formulations containing potentially irritating substances. It is important to pay attention to the texture and compositions of the selected products, as well as the degree of sun protection.

3. The overall benefits of “Skin Minimalism”:

Ecological and economic advantages : Skin minimalism contributes to reducing waste by avoiding the accumulation of useless products. By opting for quality and multi-functional products, you will also save on your skin care product expenses in the long run.

The link between “Skin Minimalism” and Self-Esteem: Skin minimalism encourages acceptance of one’s natural skin and highlights the simplicity of authentic beauty. By focusing on a simple skincare routine and embracing your skin as it is, this approach can boost self-esteem and foster a positive relationship with our appearance.

At Prodigia, our formulas are composed of at least 95% natural ingredients and are developed in accordance with Cosmos standards.

Need advice? Contact Prodigia!

Cosmetic ingredients that might be less natural than you think

4 August 2023

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Natural cosmetics enthusiasts are more and more passionate about products that are gentle on their skin and on the environment. These products contain ingredients of plant, animal or mineral origin. However, it is essential to understand that all supposedly natural ingredients are not always what they seem. In this article, we’ll explore natural cosmetic ingredients in depth, highlight the controversies surrounding them, and guide you to informed choices for a more natural and responsible beauty routine:

1. Understanding natural ingredients in cosmetics:

Natural ingredients provide many perceived benefits in cosmetic products. Their plant or mineral origin can bring specific benefits to the skin, such as hydration, soothing or radiance. Natural cosmetics enthusiasts are attracted to these ingredients because they are perceived to be gentler, more environmentally friendly and healthier for the skin.
However, it is essential to remain vigilant about the transparency of brands and to verify claims of naturalness. Unfortunately, some products may claim to be “natural” while still containing synthetic or chemical ingredients. It is therefore important to read labels carefully, look for certifications and learn about the reputation of the brand to ensure the true naturalness of the products.
Essential oils, plant extracts and vegetable butters are some of the most popular natural ingredients. These ingredients are often used effectively in natural cosmetics, providing their nourishing, antioxidant and regenerating properties to the skin. However, they should be used with caution, adhere to the recommended doses and be alert to any potential allergic reactions.

2. Controversial cosmetic ingredients:

Unfortunately, some commonly perceived natural cosmetic ingredients are not as natural as they appear, and can occasionally pose health and environmental concerns.

Thickening agents such as hydroxyethyl cellulose is a good example. Another great example is behentrimonium methosulfate. It is used as an antistatic agent and, sometimes, as a disinfectant, and is of vegetable origin. It most often comes from rapeseed oil. But it cannot be considered a natural ingredient. The reason is simple: it undergoes some processing transformations that are considered synthetic before being used in cosmetics.

The reasons preventing ingredients from being considered natural is usually due to the manufacturing processes used that are considered synthetic.

Among the often debated ingredients we find parabens, sulfates, silicones and synthetic dyes, among others. Parabens, for example, are widely used preservatives, but their endocrine-disrupting potential raises concerns. Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, are harsh foaming agents that can dry out the skin and hair. Silicones, on the other hand, can give a smooth vanishing feel to the skin and hair, but some variations are known to be endocrine-disrupting as well as bad for the environment. As such, ingredients like cyclopentasiloxane are now forbidden in rinse-off products, due to their negative environmental consequences.

It’s important to be aware of these controversies and make informed choices by learning about the ingredients in the products we use. Knowing and understanding these ingredients allows us to select cosmetic products that match our values and specific needs.

3. Labels and certifications for natural products:

To help consumers distinguish genuinely natural products, various labels and certifications exist. These certifications guarantee that the products meet specific standards in terms of naturalness, origin of ingredients, manufacturing methods and environmental impact.
Here are some of these labels: the COSMOS label, the Ecocert private standard, and other country-specific certifications. Discover Prodigia’s article on Certifications and labels: a guarantee of quality for your brand of natural cosmetics. We explain to you the criteria and standards they require to obtain their certification, which will allow you to more easily identify the products that meet your expectations in terms of naturalness, and to have a better idea of the making of your own natural cosmetics.

4. Make informed choices when it comes to natural cosmetics:

To make informed choices, you must read labels and ingredient lists carefully. The list of ingredients is often presented in detail, with the most common ingredients first. Take the time to understand technical terms and research ingredients that seem questionable or controversial.
It is also important to research and learn more about the ingredients used in cosmetic products. Finally, we advise you to find truly natural alternatives. With a little research, you are able to discover and adopt ethical brands that favor natural and sustainable ingredients over certified organic products. Making informed choices will allow you to take care of your skin while respecting your health and the environment.
At Prodigia, our formulas are composed of at least 95% natural ingredients and are developed in accordance with Cosmos standards.
Need advice? Contact Prodigia!

Controlling the absorption of cosmetics by the skin: What processes? What factors influence it? And what security and legal prospects?

29 July 2023

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Cosmetic products are an integral part of our daily lives, but few consumers are aware of the mechanisms that allow the skin to absorb them. In this article, we will explain these mechanisms and we will shed light on the factors influencing the absorption of cosmetics by the skin, and finally we will explore some safe and legal perspectives:

1. Understanding the absorption of cosmetics by the skin:

The skin: a protective barrier and an organ of absorption: More than a simple envelope, the skin is an organ in its own right. Its mass and surface area are the largest in the body. It protects other organs from infection, injury and harmful sun rays. It is therefore a real interface with the outside world.

What are the barriers of the skin? The skin consists of three main layers: the epidermis, the dermis and the hypodermis. The outermost layer of the skin, called the epidermis, forms a protective barrier against external influences. The outer layer of the epidermis, called the horny layer or stratum corneum, is made up of dead cells contained in epidermal lipids and is covered by the hydrolipidic film which includes the acid mantle. It is the epidermal lipids that are responsible for binding moisture and creating a skin permeability barrier, thus preventing bacteria and viruses from penetrating to the surface of the skin. Thus, the epidermis simultaneously plays the role of water, physical, chemical and antimicrobial barrier.

The absorption of cosmetics at the level of the stratum corneum: The stratum corneum or the stratum corneum, is the outermost cell layer of the epidermis, the most superficial tissue of the skin.

According to the 500 Dalton rule, the molecular weight of a compound must be less than 500 Dalton to allow skin absorption at the level of the stratum corneum. Larger molecules cannot pass through the corneal layer.

The different skin absorption routes of cosmetics:

Initially, the active ingredient must absolutely bind to the stratum corneum by dissolving in its surface hydrolipidic film. Then it crosses this barrier in two possible ways: absorption either by the stratum corneum or by the cutaneous appendages. In the majority of cases, these two passageways are used simultaneously

The passage through the stratum corneum: The stratum corneum is a multi-layered area made up of dead cells. The passage through the stratum corneum can be carried out by the trans-cellular and intercellular route.

The transcellular route: The active ingredients contained in beauty products pass from cell to cell provided that they are small in size OR that they are hydrophilic, i.e. they have an affinity for the water present in the well hydrated stratum corneum leading to make them soluble.

The intracellular pathway: Between cells, the pathway most often used. The lipophilic active ingredients (which retain fatty substances) circulate in the inter-lipid cement which ensures the cohesion of the cells of the horny layer, then in the interstitial liquid which fills the spaces between the cells of the deeper layers of the skin.

The passage through the cutaneous annexes: The pathway through the cutaneous annexes corresponds to passage through the pilosebaceous follicles (trans-follicular pathway), and much more rarely through the ducts of the eccrine sweat glands which secrete sweat. Although this pathway is in the minority, it presents a non-negligible possibility of storage and dissemination. The trans-follicular pathway allows molecules to penetrate to the reticular dermis.

2. Factors influencing the absorption of cosmetics by the skin:

Knowing how a beauty product is absorbed by the skin can largely prevent irritant reactions. Here are six factors that influence the absorption of active ingredients by the skin:

In people over 60, hydrophilic active ingredients penetrate less because their skin is dehydrated.

The site of application: The absorption of cosmetics by the skin is not the same in all parts of the body. For the same compound applied to two different anatomical sites, the penetration will be different. The thinner the stratum corneum (eyelids), the greater the penetration. On the contrary, the thicker it is (palms of the hands and soles of the feet), the less the penetration is important.

The condition of the skin: The thicker and oilier it is, the less permeable it is. Thoroughly cleanse your skin and exfoliate to facilitate the penetration of cosmetic products. Irritated skin will be more permeable. The state of hydration of the skin is essential, the more it is hydrated the more it is permeable.

The size and nature of the molecule that must cross the skin barrier: The smaller the molecule, the more easily it will penetrate. A hydrophilic molecule will tend to take the transcellular route and will only be able to cross if the skin is well hydrated.

The form of administration of cosmetic products: This is the galenic form which corresponds to the final physical appearance of the product as it will be used (lotion, gel, mousse, emulsion, patch, etc.). The skin penetration of an active molecule varies according to the galenic form in which it is presented.

Methods of application: The thickness of the layer of product applied to the skin and the frequency of application have an influence on the penetration of active ingredients. Indeed, the application of a thick layer of cream has an occlusive effect and will therefore improve absorption by the skin, this is the principle of masks. Similarly, applying a product to a larger area of skin promotes penetration.

At Prodigia, our formulas are composed of at least 95% natural ingredients and are developed in accordance with Cosmos standards.

Need advice? Contact Prodigia!

Your guide to mastering allegations and “claims” in your natural cosmetic products

21 July 2023

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In a field as competitive as natural cosmetics, and with increasingly knowledgeable customers, the “claims” or statements displayed on your product labels should attract potential customers while being accurate, non-deceptive, and relevant. What do we mean by “claims”? How can they be decoded and formulated correctly? And what regulations govern them? The answers to all your questions are in this article:

1. What are "claims"?

According to the guidelines for substantiating cosmetic product claims by Cosmetics Europe, the terms “claims” or “product claims” refer to “texts, names, trademarks, images, or other figurative signs” used for the labeling, marketing, and advertising of cosmetic products.

“Claims” play a crucial role in communicating the benefits of cosmetic products. They allow manufacturers to highlight specific features of their products and convince consumers that using these products will bring them positive results. “Claims” are usually formulated in an attractive and persuasive manner to generate interest among consumers and encourage them to make a purchase.

Here are some common examples of “claims” found in the cosmetic industry:

Benefit claims:

Anti-aging: These products are presented as having the ability to reduce signs of aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of skin elasticity.
Hydrating: Hydrating products claim to provide intense and long-lasting hydration to maintain soft, smooth, and supple skin.

Brightening: These products claim to lighten or even out the skin tone, reduce dark spots or imperfections, and give a brighter complexion.

“Free from” claims: They allow for an informed decision for a specific target group or groups of end users. They must be precise, non-deceptive, and relevant. They should not involve an ingredient already prohibited by regulations or an ingredient that is not necessary for the product’s formulation:

Paraben-free: This claim indicates that the product does not contain parabens, which are chemical preservatives often associated with health concerns.
Fragrance-free: Fragrance-free products are formulated without the addition of synthetic fragrances, making them suitable for sensitive or reactive skin.
Allergen-free: These products are designed to minimize the risks of allergic reactions and are formulated without ingredients known to cause skin allergies.

There are others, such as “acetone-free” in nail polish for users wishing to avoid its particular odor, or the claim “free of animal-derived ingredients” in products intended for vegans.

2. How to decode "claims"?

First and foremost, it is crucial to carefully read labels and product descriptions to be able to detect claims and then decode them. It is also important to formulate them correctly when designing product labels and packaging.

Here are some commonly used “claims”:

“Clinically tested”: This generally means that the product has been subjected to laboratory tests or tests on human volunteers, but it does not necessarily guarantee positive results.
“Visible results”: This implies that the results will be visible to the naked eye, but it can vary from person to person.
“Advanced formula”: This term suggests that the product uses an innovative formulation, but it does not provide specific indications of the actual benefits of the product.

How to present “claims” in an authentic and convincing manner? To gain consumer trust, it is essential to present your claims honestly and transparently. Highlight your natural ingredients and their benefits: emphasize the natural ingredients you use and explain how they contribute to the benefits of your products. Use precise descriptions to communicate the effectiveness of these ingredients and rely on scientific evidence such as clinical studies or independent research. This will enhance the credibility of your claims and reassure your customers. Lastly, avoid exaggerated terms such as “miraculous” or “instant results” and instead use realistic and factual terms to describe the benefits of your products.

3. Regulations on "claims" in cosmetics

Regulations on “claims” in the cosmetic industry are essential to protect consumers from misleading or false claims. Here are some important international control organizations and regulations in this field:

Food and Drug Administration (FDA): The FDA is the regulatory body in the United States responsible for overseeing cosmetic products. Although the FDA does not require pre-market approval for cosmetic products, it monitors claims to ensure they are truthful and do not deceive consumers.
European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): EFSA is the regulatory body of the European Union responsible for the safety assessment of food products and food supplements. When cosmetic products contain ingredients that are also used in food, such as vitamins and minerals, EFSA can evaluate claims related to these ingredients.
European Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009: This regulation governs the marketing of cosmetic products in the European Union. It establishes specific requirements for cosmetic claims, including truthfulness, accuracy, evidence, and compliance with good practices.

The regulations impose guidelines and limitations on cosmetic claims to prevent deceptive practices. Here are some of them:

Truthfulness and scientific substantiation: Claims must be truthful and supported by appropriate scientific evidence.
Non-medicalization of cosmetic products: Claims must not claim to cure diseases or treat medical conditions.
Avoidance of deception: Claims must not mislead consumers. They should not exaggerate the effects of products or create unrealistic expectations.

Avoid falling into the trap of “misleading advertising“! This expression refers to “any advertising that, in any way, including its presentation, misleads or is likely to mislead the persons to whom it is addressed or whom it reaches and which, due to its misleading nature, is likely to affect their economic behavior or, for these reasons, harm or is likely to harm a competitor.”

At Prodigia, our formulas are composed of at least 95% natural ingredients and are developed in accordance with Cosmos standards.

Need advice? Contact Prodigia!

Conscious beauty: a sustainable and natural approach

4 July 2023

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The beauty industry is reinventing itself to address consumer concerns that are increasingly revolving around sustainability and environmental consciousness. The concept of Conscious Beauty is emerging, highlighting values such as sustainability, the use of natural and organic ingredients, ethics, and fair trade. What parameters should your brand integrate to operate in conscious beauty? And how important is it to make informed choices for our well-being and that of the planet? Find the answers in this article:

1 - "Conscious Beauty", sustainable and ethical:

What is this ? Conscious beauty goes beyond aesthetic appearance to emphasize products and practices that respect the health of the skin, body, and our environment. This involves prioritizing formulations and processes that are nature-friendly, as well as positioning your brand as one that adopts a holistic approach to sustainability.

The sustainability challenge: The beauty industry has a significant impact on the environment. It is therefore crucial to promote sustainable practices, such as reducing carbon emissions, preserving natural resources, and promoting biodiversity. Conscious brands are committed to minimizing their ecological footprint while offering high-quality products.

Ethics and fair trade: Conscious beauty also encompasses values of ethics and fair trade. Brands committed to this approach ensure fair and safe working conditions for their employees, support local communities, and encourage fair business practices throughout their supply chains.

It is also crucial to avoid false claims and misleading advertisements of “clean” or “green” products. Dishonest practices such as the use of harmful ingredients and animal testing should be avoided.

2 - What conscious aspects should you prioritize when designing your products?

Natural and organic ingredients: Natural and organic beauty products are made from plant-based ingredients, free from harmful chemicals. They offer skincare benefits without compromising our health or the environment. When you opt for products based on natural and organic ingredients, you enable your customers to maintain skin balance while supporting biodiversity-friendly agriculture.

You can source your natural raw materials from Prodigia.

Sustainable packaging: Sustainable packaging plays a crucial role in conscious beauty. By adopting recyclable, biodegradable, and reusable materials, your brand contributes to reducing plastic waste and preserving natural resources. More and more companies are investing in minimal, innovative, and environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

Certifications and labels: Certifications and labels play a key role in conscious beauty, providing consumers with reliable guidance in choosing environmentally friendly and health-conscious products. Examples of certifications include organic labels, cruelty-free certifications, and recyclable packaging.

Discover our article on certifications and labels: a guarantee of quality for your natural cosmetics brand.

3- What is the future for conscious beauty?

The informed consumer holds the power to make conscious choices: Consumers now have a crucial role to play in promoting conscious beauty. By researching brands, certifications, and labels, they can make informed decisions and choose products that align with their values and needs. By supporting conscious brands, they encourage positive change in the industry.

The challenges of adopting sustainable practices in the beauty industry: While significant progress has been made, the beauty industry faces challenges in its journey toward sustainability. Seeking sustainable sourcing, consumer education, and implementing environmentally friendly practices require ongoing efforts and collaboration among stakeholders. This should not discourage your brand from pursuing sustainability—it’s important to start somewhere.

The future of conscious beauty, emerging trends: The conscious beauty industry is evolving rapidly, with the emergence of new trends such as refillable products, sustainable technological innovations, and recycling initiatives. The future of conscious beauty promises a holistic approach that integrates sustainability, innovation, and well-being.

Conscious beauty is more than just a fleeting trend. It is a movement that is gaining popularity and contributing to creating a more sustainable future for the beauty industry. At Prodigia, our formulas are composed of at least 95% natural ingredients and are developed in accordance with Cosmos standards.

Need advice? Contact Prodigia!

The rise of personalization in cosmetics: A new opportunity for you as a manufacturer

26 June 2023

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In a rapidly changing cosmetics industry, natural cosmetics enthusiasts are now looking for personalized products that specifically meet their individual needs and preferences. From customizing ingredients to creating unique scents, customizing textures and packaging, customization offers a valuable opportunity for cosmetics manufacturers. Do you want to explore the different facets of personalization in cosmetics? The answers are in this article:

I. Which elements can be customized in a natural cosmetic product?

1. Personalized ingredients, the right ingredient for the right need:

Ingredient customization is a key aspect of personalized cosmetics that allows you to meet the specific demands of different customer segments.

Customers are looking for products that precisely address their skin types, concerns, and needs. By offering the ability to customize ingredients, you meet these specific demands by offering tailored products. This strategy offers you the advantage of distinguishing yourself as a manufacturer.

You can also offer your customers the reformulation of existing products by adding one or more specific ingredients. The addition of a unique key ingredient transforms a basic product into a unique creation that targets a more specific need for the customer who selects it. Need inspiration? Discover our article on the key Moroccan ingredients to have for your natural cosmetics brand.

2. Personalized perfumes for unique olfactory experiences:

Perfume plays an essential role in beauty products, and its customization allows creators of natural cosmetics to create unique olfactory experiences.

By allowing your customers to choose notes and chords that appeal to them, this paves the way for the creation of personalized products that stand out in the market. Discover our article on perfumes and fragrances in natural cosmetic products for more advice.

3. Custom textures to suit all preferences:

Each client has their own preferences when it comes to cosmetic textures. Some prefer light and flowing textures, while others prefer rich and creamy textures. By offering customization of textures, you can adapt to individual consumer preferences and provide them with a unique experience.

4. Personalized packaging to add a touch of distinction:

The packaging of a product is much more than simple protection. It can become a real differentiation tool. You can offer packaging personalization by adding personalized elements such as the customer’s initials engraved on the bottle, unique designs or even specific messages.

This distinctive visual experience helps boost your brand awareness. Discover our articles on the different parameters to be mastered for successful packaging: Why is the packaging sometimes more important than the product? and How to successfully develop the packaging of your products?

II. Mastering customization: what advantages, what challenges, and what future trends?

1. The advantages of customization for the customers:

When a fan of natural cosmetics gains exclusive access to products tailored to their individual needs, their beauty experience becomes unique. A customer involved in the process of creating their skincare routine is a customer who expresses their individuality. The brand that offers them this luxury is just as individual.

When your brand is able to listen to its customers and respond to their changing needs, it builds their satisfaction and brand loyalty.

From a marketing point of view, the personalization strategy is used to target, satisfy, and retain your customers. It also serves to improve the customer experience. Then from a business point of view, this strategy drives sales up. When a variety of products your brand offers satisfies a variety of customer needs, your sales increase.

2. The challenges of customization in the cosmetics industry:

Despite its benefits, customization also presents challenges for cosmetic manufacturers. Producing custom products at scale can be complex. It could cost you significant investments in terms of technology and logistics. It’s up to you to find the right balance between personalization and profitability to ensure the success of your initiatives.

3. Future trends in customization in cosmetics:

Personalization is gaining popularity in the cosmetics industry and it’s here to stay. In the future, we can expect to see technological innovations that will facilitate personalization, such as the use of artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Manufacturers who invest in customization will be ahead of their competition, start now!

At Prodigia, our formulas are composed of at least 95% natural ingredients and are developed in accordance with Cosmos standards.

Need advice? Contact Prodigia!

The clean alternative to silicones; silicone-like ingredients

15 June 2023

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Silicones have long been used in the cosmetic industry to give cosmetic products a smooth and silky texture. Following concerns about their environmental impact and their effect on health, a more natural alternative has been developed: silicone-like ingredients. Here’s everything you need to know about silicones and silicone-like ingredients:

I. Silicones

What are silicones exactly?

Silicones are synthetic polymers that have unique properties such as water resistance and their ability to form a protective layer on the skin or hair. They are used to improve the texture, softness, and shine of cosmetic products, but they are also known for their ability to reduce frizz, seal in moisture, and extend the wear of makeup.

How are they perceived in the cosmetic industry?

Among consumers who prefer more natural skincare and haircare products, silicones often have a bad reputation.

For manufacturers, silicones were revolutionary in the 1950s due to the novelty they offered in terms of sensory experience. However, since then, the industry has progressed towards silicone-free technology. Technological advancements have paved the way for new categories of sensory emollients. Today, durable plant-based emollients without silicone are preferred.

Concerns about their environmental impact and their effect on health have led to the implementation of European bans on silicones D4, D5, and D6. In certain circumstances, cyclomethicones are also prohibited by retailers and deemed undesirable by consumer groups.

Why is it bad in reality?

Silicones can be harmful to the environment when they are discharged into wastewater and oceans, where they can persist for years. In addition, some types of silicones can cause skin irritation and health problems such as allergies or migraines in some people.

II. Silicone-like ingredients

Scientific advancement for natural solutions

Fortunately, scientific advancements have led to the development of silicone-like ingredients, natural ingredients that mimic the properties of silicones without harmful effects on the environment or health. These ingredients are often derived from plant sources such as coconut or jojoba oil and are completely biodegradable.

Their origin

Silicone-like ingredients are derived from plants such as sugar cane, corn, rice, and beet. They are produced from natural ingredients, which means they are biodegradable and sustainable.

Their positive effects on skin and hair

Silicone-like ingredients have positive effects on the skin and hair, just like silicones. They provide a smooth and silky texture to cosmetic products while helping to seal in moisture and reduce frizz. Skincare and haircare products containing silicone-like ingredients are also less likely to cause skin irritations or allergic reactions.

At Prodigia, our formulas are at least 95% natural and are developed in accordance with Cosmos standards. Naturally, we have incorporated silicone-like ingredients into the formulation of some of our skincare and haircare products to give them a luxurious texture without the harmful effects of silicones. Our Brightness & Shine Hair Serum and our Day and Night Moisturizing Creams contain natural ingredients such as jojoba oil and argan oil, which help nourish and moisturize the skin and hair without causing irritation.

Need advice? Contact Prodigia!

Here is everything you need to know about “Good alcohols” and “bad alcohols”

24 May 2023

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When it comes to natural cosmetics, many people think that all alcohols are bad for the skin. However, this is not entirely true. While some alcohols can dry out and irritate the skin, others can be beneficial. What are the different types of alcohols that exist in natural cosmetics? Find all the answers to your question in this article:

It is important to understand that not all alcohols are created equal. There are two main types of alcohols commonly used in cosmetics: fatty alcohols and simple alcohols.

Fatty alcohols:

Fatty alcohols, such as cetearyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, are derived from natural sources such as coconut. These alcohols are often used as emollients and thickeners in natural cosmetics. They help to moisturize the skin and improve the texture of products such as lotions and creams. Fatty alcohols are considered safe and non-irritating, even for people with sensitive skin.

Here are examples of “good” alcohols or fatty alcohols : “Cetyl alcohol”, “Stearyl or isostearyl alcohol”, “Cetearyl alcohol”, “Brassica alcohol ”, “Myristyl alcohol”, and “Glyceryl stearate”.

Simple alcohols:

Simple alcohols, on the other hand, can dry out and irritate the skin. These alcohols, such as denatured alcohol and isopropyl alcohol, are commonly used in mainstream cosmetics and can strip the skin of its natural oils. They are generally not recommended for use in natural cosmetics.

Here are examples of simple alcohols: “Alcohol denatured”, “Isopropl alcohol or denat”, “SD alcohol”, “Ethanol”, and “Alcohol”.

When formulating your natural cosmetics, it is important to prioritize fatty alcohols over simple alcohols. This way, the formulated product will be gentle and non-irritating to the skin.

At Prodigia, we only use premium quality fatty alcohols.

Here is a chart including examples of both families of alcohols:

Prodigia Article-2-Les-bons-alcools-dans-la-skincare-2 (1)

Need advice? Contact Prodigia!

The Power of Natural Ingredients in Hair Masks: Hydration, Nutrition, and Repair

15 May 2023

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Hair masks are increasingly popular among natural cosmetic enthusiasts.. What are the main advantages of hair masks? And which natural ingredients best meet each need? All the answers are in this article:

Hydration:

Hydration is essential to give the hair suppleness and shine. Hair masks are particularly appreciated by customers with dry, brittle, and damaged hair.

For optimal hair hydration, it is recommended to prioritize hair mask formulations that incorporate ingredients like:

Glycerin and aquaxyl: they work together to regulate the moisture levels in the hair, ensuring optimal hydration. They help preserve the suppleness and shine of the hair by minimizing water loss

Aloe vera: it possesses moisturizing, soothing, and scalp-regenerating properties due to its rich composition of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Flaxseed: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it helps maintain hair hydration by forming a protective barrier around the hair cuticles. It is also rich in antioxidants that help protect the hair against damage caused by free radicals.

Marshmallow root: it exhibits hydrating effects comparable to flaxseed, as it forms a protective barrier around the hair cuticles. This barrier is created by the softening and reparative properties of the mucilages present in marshmallow root, contributing to hair hydration

Nutrition:

Proper nourishment plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and beauty of hair. Specifically, nourishing hair masks are highly recommended for individuals with dry and lackluster hair, as they provide essential nutrients to revitalize and enhance its overall condition.

To achieve deep nourishment for the hair, it is advisable to prioritize hair mask formulations that incorporate vegetable oils and butters. Notably, coconut oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, and sweet almond oil possess remarkable nourishing properties for the hair. By utilizing these ingredients, you can offer a diverse selection of nourishing hair masks that cater to the unique requirements of your customer base.

Repair:

Hair masks are effective in repairing damaged and brittle hair, including hair prone to split ends, making them highly valued by customers with such concerns,

For intensive hair repair, formulations enriched with marshmallow and vegetable proteins are highly recommended. Marshmallow root, with its abundance of mucilages, possesses softening and repairing properties beneficial for the hair. On the other hand, vegetable proteins play a crucial role in strengthening the hair structure and safeguarding it against external aggressors. By offering a diverse range of repairing hair masks, you can cater to the specific needs of each client, ensuring their satisfaction.

Discover Prodigia’s Hair Mask, which hydrates, improves hair softness and shine, and prevents split ends. The mask is available in White Label. Need advice? Contact Prodigia!