Bradford Blog

Autumn Trends: Beauty Reformulated for Functionality and Wellness

Written by Jamie Barrows | 10/22/24 8:55 PM

As autumn ushers in change, the beauty and personal care industries are following suit, focusing more on multi-functionality, inclusivity, and wellness. Consumers today are looking for practical, eco-friendly products that genuinely work, offering manufacturers (like us!) a chance to rethink how their offerings can meet these shifting demands.

Multi-Functionality: Products That Do More

Today, people expect more from their skincare. Multi-purpose products simplify routines, cut down on waste, and deliver multiple benefits in one go. A cleanser, for instance, can include humectants like glycerin and calming ingredients like aloe vera, giving a thorough cleanse without drying out the skin. Products that work for both face and body are gaining popularity, reducing the need for multiple items on the shelf.

Deodorants, too, are evolving beyond odor control. They’re incorporating ingredients like zinc to absorb odor, shea butter for moisture, and probiotics to support a healthy skin microbiome. This method appeals to eco-conscious shoppers who want fewer but more effective products in sustainable formats.

Inclusivity: Formulations and Packaging for Every Skin Type and Tone

The call for inclusive beauty keeps growing, with formulators focusing on ingredients that cater to a variety of skin needs. Rich emollients like shea butter and coconut oil offer deep hydration for dry skin, while lighter oils such as jojoba work well for oily or combination types. Brands are also offering fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options to serve those with sensitive skin or who prefer minimal scents.

Inclusivity doesn’t stop at the formula—it extends to packaging, too. Sustainable and user-friendly designs, such as twist-up containers, refillable options, or tactile indicators for the visually impaired, are becoming more common. Gender-neutral and minimalist packaging is also on the rise, appealing to a broad audience and creating a more welcoming beauty experience for everyone.

Wellness-Driven Beauty: Active Ingredients That Support Holistic Care

Beauty products are increasingly viewed as part of a wellness routine, supporting both skin health and emotional well-being. Ingredients like lavender, chamomile, and eucalyptus offer aromatherapeutic benefits to promote relaxation, while vitamins and actives like vitamin E, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid help maintain healthy, hydrated skin.

Herbs and roots —like ashwagandha and ginseng—are also making their way into skincare to help the skin better handle stress from environmental factors. These ingredients align perfectly with the wellness trend by nurturing both appearance and inner balance.

The Future of Formulations: Where Beauty is Heading

The shift toward high-performance, inclusive, and wellness-driven formulations is paving the way for future innovation. As demand grows for sustainable, multi-benefit products, we can expect even more refined solutions. Technologies like waterless formulations and bio-based ingredients are opening new possibilities for cleaner, greener beauty.

By staying on top of these trends, our R&D team can create products that meet evolving consumer expectations. Whether through innovative deodorants or advanced skincare, the future lies in developing solutions that not only perform but also promote sustainability and wellness every step of the way. Let us help you formulate one of your next cleanser bars or stick products, touching on one or more of these critical trends. Contact us today to get started.

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