Shampoos, creams, balms, gels, soaps – these are just some of the cosmetic products that we have at our fingertips. This type of assortment portfolio is very extensive, and store shelves are stocked with various types of cosmetic products.
The global cosmetics market plays a significant role in the global economy and remains in a long-term upward trend. Also, in Poland, the cosmetics industry is an important segment of the economy. Manufacturers are competing in developing cosmetic formulations based on modern technology and current market trends.
Therefore, cosmetic products placed on the market are required to be safe, effective and of appropriate quality. These criteria are a priority for the cosmetics industry. For this reason, the production of cosmetics requires the use of not only specialised production processes but also appropriate raw materials. Their proper composition will allow for the production of an effective cosmetic with the properties desired by the consumer.
Along with the growing awareness and more common access to knowledge, consumers begin to demand from producers that their cosmetics should be produced with natural and lesser processed substances. Cosmetic raw materials of natural origin are becoming a standard on the market of intermediates.
What are cosmetic intermediates?
Cosmetics are various types of chemicals or mixtures that are intended for external contact with the human body, as well as with the teeth and mucous membranes of the oral cavity. They can be used, among others, for the care of skin, hair, nails and many other elements of our body.
Each of the cosmetics has a unique composition, rich in various types of semi-finished products. Among the ingredients used, we can find, among others, surfactants, emollients, humectants, fragrances, substances responsible for their consistency, foam formation, water, which we already know so well, and many others. The intermediates contained in cosmetics are responsible not only for their form. The properties that characterise them are also important, as they influence the mode of action and intended use of these products.
Among the available intermediates, we can find synthetic cosmetic raw materials, but also raw materials of natural origin. On the cosmetics label or in the offer presented to us by a given store or wholesaler, we should find information on individual ingredients, as well as markings proving certificates, e.g. proving their origin.
What is a raw material of natural origin?
Is a raw material of natural origin the same as a natural raw material? These terms are often used interchangeably. Is that correct? Well, no.
Natural raw materials are materials of plant, animal or mineral origin used in technological processes. They are the result of various processes, including enzymatic or microbiological, which process the raw material only to a small extent. They also preserve their natural properties, nutritional values, vitamins, or other substances with beneficial properties.
On the other hand, raw materials of natural origin are based on natural raw materials, but additionally, they are subject to further chemical changes. Cosmetic products based on this type of raw material have gained popularity due to various properties, including moisturizing, anti-ageing, as well as protecting against the harmful effects of free radicals. Moreover, they are environmentally friendly, safe and of high-quality products. However, it should be remembered that a product based on raw materials of natural origin is not a natural product.
Manufacturers often signed their products as natural, which was far from the truth. After getting acquainted with the composition of INCI, it could be noticed that organic raw materials or plant extracts constituted only a small percentage of all raw materials. This led to misleading the consumer.
For this reason, independent international certification organizations have been established. Placing their symbols on the product packaging ensures that the cosmetics are based on raw materials of natural origin. One of the main certification organizations is ECOCERT. Cosmetic products with this marking cannot contain such raw materials as synthetic oils, parabens, silicones, PEGs, petroleum derivatives, artificial colours and flavours.
The quality of the raw materials proves the quality of the cosmetic
The quality features are mainly related to the requirements of customers, which include, among others, effective protection, care, improvement of the condition of the skin, hair as well as nails. Despite complying with all the required regulations and the raw materials used, the quality of the products can vary significantly. It depends on a large number of factors occurring before and during each stage of the production process, as well as after its completion. For this reason, certain parameters are specified, which the cosmetics manufacturer should pay special attention to at the very beginning of the technological process.
One of the key factors is the quality of the ingredients used. Therefore, it is worth choosing raw materials from proven producers who offer certified raw materials. The good quality and properties of cosmetic intermediates are confirmed by a number of tests and experiences. This enables the production of a cosmetic that will satisfy the expectations of even the most demanding consumers. However, in the production process, the right amount of ingredients is also important, as well as the use of an appropriate technological process.
Do all cosmetics work effectively?
As a consumer, you should be aware that every cosmetic, including the one based on natural ingredients, does not have to be fully effective. Human skin can react in different ways in contact with substances contained in cosmetics. Therefore, it is worth observing our body, carrying out regular examinations and staying in touch with specialists who will advise us on what products will allow us to achieve the best care results.
Buy consciously – choose products made from raw materials of good quality
By being a conscious consumer, you act for the benefit of reliable producers. You help them create brands. By purchasing a high-quality product, you are supporting the manufacturer who has put effort into its development, obtaining the appropriate raw materials and carrying out the entire technological process.
Cosmetic intermediates – whether of natural or synthetic origin – have many different properties that can have both positive and negative effects on us. Therefore, it is worth educating yourself on this topic, using the advice of specialists and choosing products that will give you the best possible effect.
You will also find a wide range of specialized intermediates and finished cosmetic products in the offer of the PCC Group.
Betaines are one of the most commonly used cosmetic intermediates. In the product portfolio of the PCC Group, they can be found under the trade name – Rokamina. They reduce the irritating properties of preparations containing anionic surfactants. Moreover, they have very good foaming properties in a wide range of pH and water hardness. They are also 100% ecological, which is confirmed by receiving the ECOCERT quality mark. Amphoteric surfactants from the betaine group include, among others, ROKAmina K40HC, ROKAmina K30 as well as ROKAmina K30B.
Another significant group among cosmetic intermediates are ROKAcets. In particular, ROKAcet KO300G and ROKAcet HR40 are worth paying attention to. They are non-ionic surfactants with very good cleansing properties. Both products stabilize oil in water emulsions, are biodegradable and are based on renewable plant raw materials. ROKAcet HR40 mainly acts as a solubiliser, thanks to which hydrophobic substances (insoluble in water) such as essential oils, fragrances or vitamins can be introduced into the aqueous solution. On the other hand, ROKAcet KO300G is mainly used as a conditioning agent and emollient in cleansing cosmetics. What does it mean? The product reduces the drying effect of the preparation, as a result of which the skin surface remains moisturized and covered with a protective layer.
On the other hand, ROKAtend LS can be distinguished from the group of mild anionic surfactants used in the cosmetics industry. It belongs to the amino acid surfactants, which are one of the milder surfactants available on the market. In addition to its excellent cleansing and foaming properties, it also contributes to the feeling of long-lasting comfort and softness of the skin.
The PCC Group provides comprehensive assistance in choosing a product that meets all customer requirements. For more information on cosmetic intermediates, visit www.products.pcc.eu.