The cosmetics industry shows no signs of slowing down despite facing unprecedented market conditions in past two years. The industry has been dominated by global conglomerates for years now. Apart from brick and mortar outlets, these global bards have also have established their presence in a virtual market space. On the other hand, technological advancements have provided opportunities for beauty startups and other related businesses to enter the space. Overall, total global beauty industry spending in 2020 was estimated at around $483 billion, while the annual total is expected to top $716 billion by 2025.
Going further, Cosmeceuticals are now taking over the beauty and personal care industry. Today many industry experts, dermatologists prescribe products with cosmeceutical ingredients to their patients.
What are Cosmeceuticals?
The term cosmeceuticals have known to be coined around the 1980s by American dermatologist Albert Kligman. As the name itself suggests, it is a combination of the words cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. In a similar sense, cosmeceuticals are products that not only make your skin look better but also supposedly alter the physical structure of the skin.
Cosmeceutical APIs are the biologically active ingredients that provide cosmeceutical products properties of a pharmaceutical drug along with benefits of cosmetics. Like any other cosmetic product, cosmeceuticals are applied over the skin. However, these products are experiencing a surge in demand as their scope has widened exponentially.
These products are often prescribed by dermatologists but are not exactly drugs. Their effects are often limited to the skin surface. While a few other products are recommended for managing several skin conditions. Additionally, they are known to improve skin texture and appearance. Skincare API products also help in reducing visible aging signs on the face.
Despite having drug-like effects, cosmeceuticals are available without a doctor’s prescription. They are often considered as a part of the daily skincare regime as they perfectly combine skincare ingredients and dermatological elements.
Uses and applications of Cosmeceuticals APIs
- Some of the commonly found ingredients in cosmeceuticals are sunscreens, Antioxidants (vitamin C, Alpha-lipoic acid, Nicotinamide), Hydroxy acids, skin lightening agents, Peptides, and proteins.
- Also, herb extracts, essential oils, minerals, beeswax, and various oils make a large part of cosmeceuticals.
- They improve skin appearance and help in eliminating any visible signs of aging.
- A good quality of cosmeceutical products are known to give better results that last longer. However, it has to be noted that they do not produce effects like cosmetic injectable fillers.
- On the other hand, cosmeceutical products when used along with medically prescribed dermatological medicines helps you gain better and visible results.
- Cosmeceuticals often constitute the latest or more advanced pharmaceutical ingredients, which may not work in retail products.
- Though these products are not used in treating underlying skin conditions, users can find Cosmeceuticals suitable for almost all types of skin conditions.
- Meanwhile, those individuals suffering from skin conditions such as psoriasis can get relief by using cosmeceuticals. If not completely cured, they can surely reduce the severity.
- Skin conditions like acne breakouts can be controlled when applied appropriately.
Disadvantages
Along with advantages, cosmeceuticals have some risks as well. As they contain high concentrations of active ingredients, they can cause skin irritation for individuals with sensitive skin.
Future of cosmeceuticals
Pharmaceutical export companies are one of the key players in the industry. Moreover, technological advancements are leading to more research in the field and the introduction of new enhanced products.
