Enhancing Circularity in Cosmetic Formulations

In the quest for sustainability, circularity stands out as a pivotal principle in the cosmetics industry. At Deveraux Specialties, we are committed to leading the charge in innovative circular development strategies that not only minimize environmental impact but also elevate product efficacy and consumer satisfaction. Here, we explore effective strategies and innovations that are reshaping the way we create beauty products.

What is Circularity in Cosmetics?

Circularity in cosmetics means designing ingredients, formulas, and supply chains so materials stay useful longer—and create less waste across the product lifecycle. For formulators, circularity usually translates into four practical levers:

• Feedstock choice: prioritize renewable and/or upcycled inputs where performance allows.
• Formulation efficiency: use multifunctional ingredients to reduce total materials, processing steps, and waste.
• End-of-life consideration: select ingredients with favorable biodegradability profiles when appropriate, and avoid unnecessary persistence.
• Supplier transparency: work with partners who can document sourcing, processing, and sustainability metrics.

Circularity isn’t a single ingredient claim—it’s a design approach that balances environmental considerations with stability, sensory performance, safety, and scale.

Key takeaways for formulators

• Upcycling can reduce waste and add story/value—if quality is standardized.
• Renewable doesn’t automatically mean low-impact; sourcing and processing matter.
• “Bio-based” ≠ “biodegradable”—evaluate evidence, not assumptions.
• Efficiency can improve both sustainability and consumer perception.

Selecting Responsible Suppliers

A critical aspect of our circular approach involves meticulously selecting suppliers who also embrace circular practices. We actively source partners that prioritize sustainability in their sourcing and development of ingredients, ensuring that every link in our supply chain contributes to our environmental objectives.

Formulator tip: Look for traceability, consistent specs, and documentation (INCI, origin, processing notes, sustainability metrics) that supports internal review and substantiated claims.

Championing Upcycling

Upcycling is a transformative approach that involves repurposing by-products or waste materials into high-value ingredients. By integrating upcycled substances, such as coffee grounds or fruit peels, into formulations, Deveraux Specialties and our partners, help turn potential waste into essential cosmetic ingredients, thereby reducing our overall environmental footprint.

Formulator tip: Ask for batch-to-batch controls, relevant contaminant/heavy metal guidance, and performance data that supports substitution without destabilizing the system.

Utilizing Renewable Resources

Sourcing ingredients from renewable resources is crucial for sustainable development. We focus on materials that are replenishable within a human lifespan, such as plant-derived oils and extracts. This approach not only supports the conservation of biodiversity but also ensures a sustainable supply chain that can meet future demands without depleting natural reserves.

Formulator tip: Evaluate crop/source stability, process footprint (e.g., solvent choice), and consistency—renewable only helps if the supply chain is scalable and reliable.

Embracing Biodegradability

One of the foundational steps towards achieving circularity in cosmetic formulations is integrating biodegradable ingredients. These components break down naturally and swiftly in the environment, reducing pollution and promoting a healthier ecosystem. At Deveraux Specialties, we prioritize the use of biodegradable polymers and natural oils, which decompose without leaving harmful residues.

Formulator tip: Confirm whether data is ready vs. inherent biodegradability and whether it matches the product’s pathway (e.g., rinse-off vs leave-on).

Enhancing Formulation Efficiency

Efficiency in formulation is key to reducing waste during production. Our partners employ advanced technologies to optimize the use of each ingredient, ensuring that each component serves multiple functions. This not only simplifies the ingredient list but also enhances the overall performance of the product, making it appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

Formulator tip: Multifunctionals can reduce total ingredients, manufacturing steps, and error points, often improving sensory and stability at the same time.

Collaborating for a Circular Future

Achieving true circularity is a collaborative effort. We actively seek partnerships with other innovators in the field, from suppliers to retailers, to drive broader systemic changes. Through these collaborations, we aim to create a ripple effect of sustainability practices that influence the entire beauty industry.

Formulator tip: Align early on target specs and performance benchmarks (viscosity, sensorial profile, stability endpoints) to reduce reformulation cycles and waste.

Join us in supporting a sustainable future by choosing products developed in partnership with our esteemed partners leading in circularity. Discover more about these collaborations and how they help us foster a more sustainable beauty industry on our Partners Page. Together, let’s make beauty sustainable!