Naturals functionality now reaching high levels: Evonik’s ingredient wins award

In a sign that green chemistry is allowing naturals to catch up with synthetics when it comes to functionality, Evonik’s Rehance One scooped a gold award at in-cosmetics Global.

Winning gold for the Best Functional Ingredient at the major trade show’s award ceremony, Evonik’s Rehance One is touted as both ‘natural and powerful’ by the manufacturer.

It is a substance from the glycolipid family that can be used for cleaning skin and hair gently yet effectively, which also makes it suitable for challenging skin types.

“Now we’re going to collaborate with our customers to work out the full scope of applications for Rehance One,” said Dr. Tammo Boinowitz, the head of Evonik’s Personal Care Business Line.

“We’re already planning to expand this new technology platform.”

How does it work?

Fermentation techniques to produce new natural functional ingredients were in evidence across the show floor at in-cosmetics Global this year, with Evonik’s win suggesting it’s Rehance One is one of the leaders in this area.

The ingredient uses sugar as its sole source of carbohydrates in the fermentation process, with its production not requiring any additional tropical oils.

“This gives the product the advantage of being both natural and sustainable,” explains Evonik.

“Its positive application properties include a dense, creamy foam and a pleasant, natural feel on the skin.”

According to the ingredients player, the glycolipid is completely biodegradable and offers extremely good environmental compatibility.

‘Green is good’

Evonik’s award is one sign among many that functional ingredients is a key space where the naturals trend is seeing progress.

In a recent Cosmetics Design article on trends in functional ingredients, Belinda Carli, director of the Institute of Personal Care Science, explained:

“The popularity of ‘natural’ continues to grow; and with more choice and material solutions, there is no reason not to consider some (or all) natural materials and derivatives in your next developments for additional consumer acceptance.”