New pigments, filters and actives from Merck

Merck presents its latest cosmetics innovations at in-cosmetics Global 2023. The launches include Ronaflux pigments, zinc oxide UV filters and algae-based actives.

Leading science and technology company, Merck is presenting its latest cosmetics innovations at this year’s in-cosmetics trade show, taking place from 28 to 30 March in Barcelona, Spain. 

Metallic optical effects without any metal content 

Merck’s Ronaflux pigment range features high colour intensity and pronounced metallic optical effects achieved entirely without the use of metals. 

“A striking, colour-intense look with a metallic allure reflects the current popular trend in colour cosmetics. At the same time, it’s necessary for manufacturers to meet stricter regulatory requirements and to ensure the stability of the colorants and pigments,” said Michael Weiden, head of commercial EMEA within the Surface Solutions business unit of the Electronics business sector of Merck. “With our Ronaflux pigments, which are based on an entirely new technology, our customers can meet these challenges while achieving unique effects that are not yet commercially available.” 

The technology behind Ronaflux pigments is both sophisticated and simple. Ultra-thin and highly stable carbon layers are homogeneously precipitated in a gas phase onto the pigments – a major precondition for spectacular shine effects. The carbon layers intensify the colors of the effect pigments, thus making brilliant shades of blue and green possible without the addition of chrome oxides, Prussian blue or other colorants. This enables manufacturers of eye makeup and lipsticks to meet the strict regulatory requirements while offering brilliant, metallic blue and green shades that do not contain any metal-based pigments. Click here for information on the individual Ronaflux pigments. 

Zinc oxide-UV filters for next-gen sunscreens 

Merck has expanded its UV filter portfolio with the addition of Eusolex Z-BASE and Eusolex Z-TEC. These zinc oxide filters offer highly effective protection against both UVB and UVA rays.

Eusolex Z-TEC is extremely transparent on the skin even in high concentration formulations such as pure mineral high-SPF sunscreens. The products meet the highest quality and purity standards customary in the pharmaceutical industry, are approved in accordance with the COSMOS standard, and are Halal-certified.

With the new UV filters, Merck offers solutions for the growing market for environmentally sound and pure mineral sunscreens. 

Cosmetic actives from the ocean for skin renewal 

Two new additions to the extremely effective algae-based skin renewal portfolio will also be presented. RonaCare JouvaMer and RonaCare ReviMer have been developed from brown seaweed from the coast of Brittany in France.

RonaCare JouvaMer, an extract of Pelvetia canaliculata brown algae, is an anti-ageing booster that reduces wrinkles by stimulating collagen synthesis. In addition, it protects and supports the extracellular matrix for denser, smoother skin.

RonaCare ReviMer, an extract of Fucus serratus brown algae, shows preventive anti-pollution effects while enhancing the skin’s structural properties. It also protects the skin’s hyaluronic acid for firmer, more elastic skin, thus reducing wrinkles. 

RonaCare JouvaMer and RonaCare ReviMer can be used in a wide variety of topical products ranging from daily skincare to dermo-cosmetics. Together with RonaCare RenouMer, which has already been launched, they complete the Merck offering for algae-based skin renewal. All products are efficacy proven and meet the current requirements as regards sustainability, traceability and respect for biodiversity. The products are Halal-certified and comply with the COSMOS standard. 

With its RonaFlair portfolio of functional fillers, Merck is also presenting alternatives to talc, an ingredient commonly used to date in skincare products and cosmetics more and more suppliers wish to replace. Trade visitors will find Merck at stand Q40.