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Hair Care meets Neo-ecology

Hair Care meets Neo-ecology

For a long time now, the focus in the cosmetics industry has not been restricted to just how a product performs. Not only have consumers become more environmentally aware in recent years, they are also much more aware and knowledgeable about these issues. In addition to their own needs, consumers are also focusing more on nature and the environment. Manufacturers and producers are therfore looking at the bigger picture. In this area, BASF is a trailblazer and pioneer.

Sun Care meets new Outdoor

Sustainable choices for a better tomorrow

Neo-ecology represents a significant evolution in our approach to personal care products, set against a backdrop where sustainability has become essential. In light of the growing awareness of environmental issues, consumers are seeking solutions that combine effectiveness with respect for the planet. This trend is manifested in several ways, including the use of sustainable ingredients, the adoption of eco-friendly packaging, the optimization of production methods to reduce environmental impact, and increased transparency from brands regarding their commitments.

Source: Mintel
1 Climate change will usher in an era of "dry" haircare - Spain: 903 internet users aged 16+ who use haircare products (Kantar Profiles/Mintel, March 2024)

2 The Future of Haircare, Styling & Colour: 2024 - Base: UK: 1,729 internet users aged 16+ who use haircare/styling products (Kantar Profiles/Mintel, February 2024)

3 Global Consumer - Base: Spain: 1,000 internet users aged 16+ (Kantar Profiles/Mintel, March 2024)

The BASF solutions for your Hair Care meets Neo-ecology

Ethical aspects

The growing use of natural ingredients is making cosmetic companies and raw material suppliers invest in ethical sourcing programs.

Ethical sourcing is becoming the norm for natural ingredients in the cosmetics industry. 

Sustainability begins at the source and carries through along the entire value chain. For this reason, responsible sourcing is a key element of our sustainability strategy. 

We have developed an array of processes, tools and systems that enable us to realistically and transparently show the sustainability contribution of our products.

  • Safety for human, animals and our planet

  • Brand social initiatives

  • Ethical sourcing

Transparency

Biodegradable ingredients help reduce environmental impact. Clean beauty, all benefits for hair and planet.

Free-from claims are important as they attract consumers concerned about the negative effects of ingredients on health and the environment.

Upcycled ingredients are used in BPC products to create valuable new ingredients from waste materials.

  • Biodegradable

  • Clean beauty

  • Upcycling

Production

Energy-efficient manufacturing processCompanies can use smart technology to motivate consumers to reduce their water consumption, carbon emissions and costs. 

Water – the new luxury. Brands are exploring innovative formulations that minimize water content. Additionally, there is a focus on developing waterless or low-water products, such as powders, solids, and concentrates.

Hair and Scalp solutions for extreme weather. Brands are developing climate-adaptive haircare products that address humidity, temperature, and UV exposure.

  • Energy costs

  • Water-consciousness

  • Climate-adaptive solutions

Eco-friendly

Compostable hair care for a greener tomorrow. The Zero Waste approach encourages consumers to choose sustainable products and recyclable packaging. 

The "Return · Refill · Repeat" approach is an effective strategy to reduce single-use containers. Consumer interest in refills is considerable, but with few options available from mass-market brands.

Solid alternatives are gaining awareness across markets and especially in the rinse-off segment.

  • Compostable

  • Recyclable, Reusable, Refillable

  • Plastic alternatives

Products & Formulations