Mintel identifies probiotics among the beauty ingredient trends for 2009

Digging through the hottest ingredients of the moment, Mintel said probiotics were set to make a big impact on the cosmetics market in 2009.

Products containing probiotic strains are already appearing in physicians’ offices and beauty shelves marketed for their purported power to improve skin health.

For example, Allergan and Clinique have just launched a probiotic cleanser as part of a skin care line for use before and after non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

Turbo beauty ramps up formulations​

Probiotics fit into what Mintel term the ‘Turbo beauty trend’ that sees the power of formulations being ramped up to deliver real discernable results.

Peptides are also hot property in the market for powerful cosmetics thanks to their potential in the fight against wrinkles and fine lines.

Mintel picked out the new palmitoyl tri peptide and tipped it for anti-aging success in the coming year.

Another anti-aging ingredient that Mintel has highlighted as having strong potential in 2009 is acerola.

Superfruit additions bring food and beauty closer together​

Rich in vitamin C and high in antioxidants, acerola is part of a growing number of ‘superfruits’ such as pomegranate and goji berry that are entering the cosmetics market after establishing themselves in food.

Starting out in drinks, yogurts and soups, acerola moved into skin care in Japan five years ago but is now expected to reach a wider audience in 2009 because of its alleged radiance benefits.

Mintel analyst Nica Lewis told CosmeticsDesign.com: “Beauty and food are becoming increasingly intertwined. Ingredients that started out in food are entering cosmetics and beauty ingredients are also moving into food.”​

Baobab is an example of a superfruit that started out in cosmetics but is moving into food and can now be found in so called ‘beauty foods’ such as cereal bars and smoothies.

With its moisturizing properties and power to add shine to hair care products, Lewis said baobab is well placed for cosmetic growth in the coming year.