The beauty industry is undergoing a major transformation driven by scientific progress, changing consumer demands, and a growing focus on environmental responsibility. Recent reports estimate that the global skincare market is expected to reach \$220 billion by 2029. This growth comes from ongoing innovations in formulation science, bioactive ingredients, and approaches that emphasize long-term skin health.
With over 15 years of experience working with global brands like Unilever, Akanksha shared insights into key trends shaping the industry today.
One major trend is the shift toward skincare that supports the skin’s microbiome. Akanksha explains that people now better understand the importance of maintaining the natural balance of microbes on the skin. This has led to a move away from harsh ingredients and excessive cleansing. Instead, products are being developed to protect and strengthen the skin’s natural defenses. Interest in prebiotics, postbiotics, and gentle surfactants continues to grow as brands aim to support skin health while ensuring product effectiveness. Researchers are also exploring live probiotic formulas and treatments targeting specific conditions such as acne and eczema. While the science is still evolving, it shows great promise for improving skin resilience over time. This growing knowledge is also encouraging the development of sustainable biotechnology, where high performance goes hand in hand with environmental care.
Sustainability remains a key focus, especially through biotech innovation. Akanksha points out that biotechnology now helps create powerful cosmetic ingredients without relying on petroleum. Many of these ingredients are produced in labs using methods like fermentation. This approach reduces the strain on natural ecosystems and allows for cleaner, more traceable ingredient sourcing. More brands are turning to lab-grown alternatives to replace traditional materials such as silicones and palm oil derivatives. Biotech enables the creation of ingredients that are both eco-friendly and well-suited for modern skincare formulations. This balance between performance and sustainability is leading to new developments, including regenerative skincare, which combines biology, formulation science, and medicine.
Regenerative skincare focuses on skin longevity and cellular health. Akanksha describes this as a new phase in the industry. Instead of just treating surface signs of aging, this approach aims to improve how skin functions on a deeper level. Technologies like senotherapeutic ingredients, exosome-inspired compounds, and bio-fermented actives target the cellular processes that affect skin aging and renewal. These innovations may enhance skin structure and support its long-term health. Akanksha finds this direction exciting because it represents a move from reactive to proactive skincare that encourages biological renewal.
Looking ahead, Akanksha believes that future innovation will depend on balancing scientific rigor with consumer values and safety. Having started her career developing sunscreens and contributed to a wide range of successful products, she emphasizes that consumers today are more informed and intentional about what they put on their skin. It is no longer just about discovering the latest ingredient, but about delivering products that are effective, responsible, and safe. She sees a convergence of biology, biotechnology, and sustainability shaping the next generation of skincare. Brands that embrace these changes with transparency and purpose will be the leaders of tomorrow’s beauty industry.
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