New film former ensures natural makeup is both sustainable and long-lasting

The new film former Baycusan eco E 1001 from Covestro fulfils consumer demand for sustainable products, while helping cosmetics manufacturers increase acceptance of their products. 

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

“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 film formers with beneficial properties 

Baycusan eco E 1001 is part of a new product line of polyurethane ingredients based at least 50 percent 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 make-up 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 of last year 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. 

Flexible styling  

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. 

Savannah Fine Chemicals is the local agent for Covestro.