In recent years, the beauty industry has seen a remarkable transformation, largely driven by advancements in biotechnology. The global biotech ingredients market size was valued at $1.61 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.3% and reach $3.01 billion by 2027 (Source: Grand View Research )​

As a leading cosmetics manufacturer and an authority in product development, THG LABS has embraced this technology since the beginning of its journey in beauty. We truly believe biotechnologies are the future for cosmetics. This more progressive, low impact and season independent approach allows us to create more potent formulas without compromising on naturality, sustainability and supply.

We continue to spearhead the biotech revolution through our strong partnerships and collaborations with world-leading biotech pioneers. After using biotech actives for many years, we’re now, where possible, seeking opportunities to replace functionals with the latest innovations in this field.

What Is Biotechnology and How Does It Relate To Beauty?

Biotechnology, aka “biotech”, is at the intersection of biology, chemistry and technology and produces high efficacy ingredients with minimum impact on the environment.

Using biological processes to create sustainable, natural and potent beauty ingredients under the scrutiny of experts, these are lab-grown and developed thanks to living systems and organisms.

Harnessing white (fermented) and blue (marine) technology, this highly sustainable growing & obtention process helps to limit the amount of botanicals, land, water and energy usage that are usually required for natural active ingredients. Independent of the seasons and weather patterns, bioreactors can be set up anywhere, making these cruelty-free materials local and available all year round.

Consumers looking for safer, science-backed beauty are welcoming these sustainably produced high-tech ingredients which also deliver effective results.

Leveraging Biotech Beauty

In the beauty industry, biotech applications are vast, ranging from the development of sustainable ingredients through to personalised skincare solutions. Biotech enables the creation of bioengineered ingredients and molecules that are not only sustainable but also ethically produced. For instance, lab-grown collagen and hyaluronic acid, traditionally derived from animal sources, can now be produced using microbial fermentation. This reduces the environmental impact and aligns with the growing consumer demand for cruelty-free and vegan products​.

Biotech As Part Of Our Beauty Product Development

At THG Labs, we understand the transformative potential of biotech in the beauty industry. Our commitment to R&D and innovation positions us as a trusted partner for brands looking to leverage these scientific advancements.

Cutting-Edge Research and Development: Our state-of-the-art R&D facilities are equipped with the latest technologies and staffed by a team of highly experienced cosmetic scientists. Supplementing the intensive studies carried out by our respected suppliers, we conduct our own rigorous research to develop new formulations that meet the highest standards of efficacy and safety.

Sustainable Manufacturing Practices: Whether it’s in the factory or at the lab bench, sustainability is a crucial consideration in our manufacturing processes and, where possible, we harness green chemistry and renewable resources in our formulating for a lower environmental footprint. An example of the power of this can be demonstrated by comparing traditionally obtained Turmeric Root Extract with Turmeric totipotent cells from biotech which uses 99% less arable soil​ and saves 99.98% water​ [Data Source: Turmeria Zen PRCF (Vytrus)]

Collaborative Innovation: We believe in the power of collaboration. By partnering with academic institutions, industry experts, and technology providers, we stay at the cutting edge of biotech research. This collaborative approach allows us to bring the latest scientific advancements to our clients, ensuring their products remain competitive and highly relevant.

The Future of Biotech in Beauty

The future of the beauty industry lies in biotechnology, offering unprecedented opportunities for innovation and growth. In an era marked by crises and climate change, biotech will play a crucial role in stabilising prices, maintaining industry resilience, and safeguarding supply chains to ensure a consistent and affordable flow of ingredients. Biotech innovations also offer brands the chance to stay ahead by answering consumer demand for products that are sustainable, effective and personalised. THG Labs is dedicated to pioneering these advancements, helping our customers achieve success with creative biotech solutions that meet the evolving needs of consumers.

For more information on how THG LABS can help your brand embrace the power of biotech, please get in touch.

About the Author

With more than a decade in product development and a strong belief in disruption, Aurelie's passion for innovation and creating successful products is boundless. She became an advocate of biotech early in her career, when it was still niche, by incorporating one of the few available ferments into her first shampoo formula for its superior performance. Since then, Aurelie’s been hooked, and now, every concept she creates includes at least one ingredient derived from biotechnology.

Aurelie has enjoyed witnessing a profound industry shift with a diverse array of biotech-derived ingredients and is convinced biotech is the future of beauty. As she says herself, 

“From actives to functionals, fragrances to preservatives, it is a joy to formulate with such an extensive palette, knowing we are not depleting finite planetary resources while still delivering the high-end results consumers expect.”