Design long-lasting, natural makeup with Covestro’s new film former

More and more consumers are demanding products that not only make them look great, but are also sustainable. This poses a challenge for makeup manufacturers as their formulations need to be long-lasting, while also containing a large percentage of plant-based ingredients.  

The new film former Baycusan eco E 1001 from Covestro fulfils both these demands, while helping cosmetics manufacturers increase acceptance of their products. The product is available in South Africa from Savannah Fine Chemicals.  

“With this development, we are reacting to a growing environmental awareness among consumers. We are also helping improve sustainability for our customers,” says Mélanie Dick, global marketing manager for cosmetics. “The project is also part of a strategic programme under which Covestro intends to focus completely on the circular economy. One of our key focus areas is using alternative raw materials like biomass in our production.”  

Naturally produced and beneficial  

Baycusan eco E 1001 is part of a new product line of polyurethane ingredients based at least 50% on renewable raw materials. It fulfils the requirements for natural origin materials in accordance with ISO standard 16128. This partially bio-based film former helps prevent undesirable effects like smearing or discoloration in natural makeup formulations. In addition, it maintains the advantageous properties of synthetic film formers, such as water and abrasion-resistance and transfer-resistance, as provided by traditional makeup formulations.  

Covestro presented the first product in its new eco series, Baycusan eco E 1000 (INCI: Polyurethane-93), in April 2019 at the in-cosmetics global exhibition in Paris. It was developed to fulfil all the requirements of a modern, high-performing hair styling product. It offers outstanding flexibility and moisture resistance compared to synthetic standards, as well as good hold.  

This product also has advantages over other natural film formers, particularly when styling hair with hot devices like flat irons or curlers. While most natural hair products like xanthan gum have poor thermal stability, Baycusan eco E 1000 can withstand temperatures up to 300°C, providing protection against heat and frizz, as well as offering flexible styling without any residue.