16 JULY, BANGKOK: [1], the must-attend Cosmetic Conference will delve into pressing and emerging trends in cosmetic science, such as the microbiome, pigmentation, the power of beauty for ageing skin, and more, elevating in-cosmetics Asia’s educational offering like never before.
It will unite six leading experts from across the globe, fostering collaboration and innovation for brand leaders through pure, unbiased, and independent scientific content. Additionally, with over 650 exhibitors from various regions, in-cosmetics Asia 2024 will be the largest gathering in the show’s 15-year history, highlighting its truly international appeal and significance.
What’s AI got to do with it?
As AI and virtual reality become integral to the beauty industry, the Cosmetic Conference will explore the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the cosmetics market, valued at $3.22 billion in 2022 and predicted to reach $15.75 billion by 2031[2].
Bringing this to life at the show, industry expert Perry Romanowski, Chair of Education, IFSCC & Vice President, Element 44 INC, will discuss how AI is reshaping cosmetic formulation in the Conference’s opening session, The future of beauty: How AI will affect cosmetic chemists and formulation. Romanowski will deliver insights into how AI is being used to prop up marketing stories and impacting ingredient research and formulation processes.
Additionally, Romanowski will examine the latest advancements in haircare, exploring product innovation through historical examples and modern techniques in the session, Haircare formulations – is innovation still possible? on day two of the Conference.
Quality of life
Addressing the rise of ‘cosmetic camouflaging’ and other solution-focused trends, Tomo Osawa, Regional Asia Pacific Innovation Centre Director, Shiseido, will share insights on ”The Power of Beauty” effect – Well-being of the elderly. With Japan boasting the highest proportion of elderly citizens in the world, Asian countries will also see ageing accelerate in the future. In this presentation, Osawa will highlight the impact of beauty on physical and mental functions in ageing populations.
In his other presentation on “The Power of Beauty” effect – Well-being of people with skin concerns, Mr Osawa will introduce the influence of the power of beauty on the well-being of people with deep skin concerns.
Fact over fiction
With misinformation rampant and editing apps distorting reality on social media, a key theme of the Conference will be to help formulators identify false information. Danilo Lambino, Founder and Director of Formulae 8 Pty Ltd, as well as an Inventor, Cosmetics Formulator, Visual Artist, and Beauty Technology Entrepreneur, will deliver a two-part presentation under the theme, Making smart ingredient choices for new product development.
In part one, Lambino will delve into the significance of choosing the right ingredients by emphasising the need for accurate and trustworthy ingredient information. Meanwhile, part two will see the emphasis placed on the importance of fact-checking and verification as essential tools to make informed and intelligent ingredient choices.
Microbiome Magic
According to the Skin Microbiome in Healthy Ageing (SMiHA) Network[3], around 50% of the UK population suffer from microbiome-associated skin complaints annually, such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or acne. At this year’s in-cosmetics Asia and Conference, the microbiome and its role in skin barrier function and health will be a focal point. Dr. Tarun Chopra, Director of Advanced Research at L’Oréal Singapore, will lead sessions on Microbiome sciences: From knowledge to effective dermo-cosmetic solutions and Understanding and managing skin tone and pigmentary disorders.
Additionally, Dr. Thomas Dawson, Deputy Executive Director, A*Star Skin Research Labs, will host a masterclass on Microbe/Host interaction on human skin: The importance of lipids in skin health. Attendees will learn about the crucial role of lipids in skin health, whilst, in his second presentation, he will address the metabolic regulation of the anagen hair follicle.
Elsewhere, Dermatological and Medical Consultant, Dr. Romun Leaovitavat, will lead an insightful discussion on Unlocking the essence of skin-ageing: Morphology, skin barrier and function. This session will introduce Conference attendees to the underlying cellular characteristics of skin-ageing and senescence-associated skin phenotype and will leave delegates with a solid understanding of how to fight ageing.
Slapping on the SPF
Suncare remains a hot category in beauty and personal care, with global suncare product values projected to grow by 4% annually until 2028[4]. Driven by the surging popularity of outdoor activities and heightened awareness of UVA and UVB radiation risks, sunscreen brands are innovating their formulas to cater to specific markets. For instance, China’s sunscreen market is expanding rapidly, outstripping the overall beauty sector’s growth. Brands are responding with sensitive-skin friendly, alcohol-free options, and products that provide blue-light protection with integrated skincare benefits[5].
Delivering a session on this pressing topic, Dr. Oliver Hofmann, Official Technical Advisor, in-cosmetics Asia & Technical Director, Shieling Laboratories, will present What is SPF, how does it work and is there more to consider for effective protection? outlining key insights on achieving adequate protection without merely chasing high SPF numbers.
Commenting on the new Cosmetic Conference, Robert McPherson, Presidium Member, IFSCC, said: “Collaboration between in-cosmetics Asia and the Cosmetic Conference makes total sense, as we complement each other perfectly. With over 16,000 members worldwide, the IFSCC is dedicated to advancing cosmetic research and fostering innovation. Joining forces allows us to provide unique insights and cutting-edge information to showcase the latest developments in our field. This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to drive the industry forward through collaboration and mutual support.”
Sarah Gibson, Event Director at in-cosmetics Asia, stated: “The APAC region is experiencing a pivotal moment as the beauty industry celebrates one of its most successful years on record. With Asian beauty making significant inroads into Western markets, it’s crucial for the sector to influence this market dominance. We encourage the industry to join us at the Cosmetic Conference for an inspiring, free-to-attend programme that promises to expand the frontiers of cosmetic science and technology, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, learning, and growth. in-cosmetics Asia is known for the quality of its educational content, and with this new addition, we are keen to ensure science is accessible to all like never before.”
The full Cosmetic Conference programme, including the speaker biographies and abstracts, are available on the in-cosmetics Asia website
