NETHERLANDS: The ever-evolving personal care industry changes radically from one year to the next. With 2017 witnessing the rise of color cosmetics, facial masks and ramped up hair care products, what can we expect to hit the market in 2018? Answers are to be found at In-Cosmetics Global, which will return to Amsterdam on April 17-19.


According to Mintel, the four big trends will be: biotechnology, in response to environment stressors on skin and hair; definitions of beauty; brands with personality; and customization driven by digital technology. R&D professionals the world over will gather at RAI Amsterdam to benefit from the show’s one-stop-shop of networking, knowledge transfer and technical tips for the next formulations, according to Reed Exhibitions. Approximately 95% of exhibitors are international and will be on hand with their latest ingredients. They will be complemented by an exciting educational program, featuring prominent speakers from across the globe and an unmatched array of interactive areas on the show floor, said the organizers.


For the first time, In-Cosmetics will introduce a series of R&D tours. Two topics will be covered—biotechnology actives and the future in anti-aging.


Also new to the 2018 show is a pre-show regulatory conference, held in association with Conusbat.


The Formulation Lab will be back, (sponsored by Brenntag) offering R&D professionals a chance to learn from experts in a series of bookable hands-on demonstrations. 


Also, the Formulation Challenge will run on April 19. Sponsored by Croda, a select few leading cosmetic manufacturers will battle it out to create the most innovative and impressive formulation from a box of mystery raw materials in just 90 minutes. A panel of market specialists will judge their work and announce a winner during the exhibition.


In addition, visitors can explore the Make-Up Bar for the latest product innovations and the opportunity to touch and test the ingredients on display; the Sensory Bar for unusual textures and sensations first-hand, including hybrid textures, jellies, butters and powders; the Innovation Zone, a launch-pad for more than 100 state-of-the-art ingredients (sponsored by Ashland); the Sustainability Corner, which will showcase a selection of initiatives and insightful presentations as the beauty industry continues to pave the way toward a fundamentally more sustainable business model; and the Marketing Trends & Regulations and Technical Seminar Theatres and Workshop program.


For social fun, Reed has planned an after party for April 17, where the In-Cosmetics Global Awards will take place. Expert judges will review all entries and present the most innovative suppliers with their prizes at the show.


More info: www.in-cosmetics.com/