In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, Gabby and Elsie wrap up their three-part series on the global trends shaping the beauty and cosmetics market for 2025. The final two trends that are sure to influence the market are ‘Sensorial Beauty’ and ‘One Ingredient Wonder’. For special guests, we have Andrea Laserna, Kobo’s Marketing Coordinator, Márcio Gomes, App Lab Chemist from Kobo Brazil, and Thalia Nghiem, App Lab Chemist from Kobo Asia Pacific. They all share their expert insights into these t...
Feb 20, 2025•17 min
In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, we continue our three-part series exploring Kobo’s global trends within the beauty and cosmetics industry for 2025. Gabby and Elsie are back with a collaborative discussion of the next two exciting trends: ‘Modern Nostalgia’ and ‘Brighten Your World.’ Special guests Nicole Young, Kobo's Marketing Coordinator, and Urmi Dhamnaskar, App Lab Chemist from Kobo UK, share their expertise to offer a deep dive into these trends and the innovative Kobo formulas that...
Jan 23, 2025•15 min
In this episode, we kick off a three-part series diving into Kobo’s global trends shaping the beauty and cosmetics industry for 2025! Over the course of the series, we’ll dive into six key trends, and in this first episode, we focus on two: ‘Your Skin, Your Way’ and ‘Sun Goes 360.’ To break down each trend, we’re joined by special guests, including Erin McGovern from Kobo’s Marketing Department, who will offer an in-depth look at the two trends. We also feature special formula spotlights that al...
Dec 19, 2024•17 min
In this episode, we’re continuing our regulatory updates mini-series with a deep dive into the latest on MoCRA (Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act) and its impact on the U.S. beauty industry. Joined by David Lennarz, President of Business Development and Operations at Registrar Corp, we break down the key provisions of the new regulations, from ingredient transparency to reporting requirements, and explore how brands can stay compliant. We then shift gears to introduce Kobo’s Formula of t...
Nov 21, 2024•41 min•Ep. 60
Does "natural" mean sustainable? Is cruelty-free the same as vegan? Join us as we debunk these myths and clarify the true meanings of labels you find on your cosmetic products. In part two of our regulatory updates mini-series, we discuss cruelty-free, vegan, and natural claims with Kobo experts. Learn about the sourcing of sustainable palm oil, leading certifiers of cruelty-free products, and so much more! We'll also feature into some of our favorite natural & cruelty-free ingredients from ...
Oct 24, 2024•33 min•Season 1Ep. 49
In the first installment of our Regulatory mini-series, we'll dive deep into all things Blue Beauty. From examining biodegradability to debunking "reef safe" claims, we'll investigate this trend's growing impact on regulation and product formulation. For our Formula of the Month, we're featuring two formulations of our Powder Sensation Liquid Lip Color to show how you can use microplastic replacements to update your favorite formulas. LINKS: https://koboproductsinc.com/...
Sep 26, 2024•42 min•Season 1Ep. 66
The hair care cosmetic market includes any product that is designed to clean, treat, or condition the hair. In part two of our series on diversity in skin and hair care, we will discuss our own experiences with various products in this category, hair care routines, and the differences we’ve found worldwide in both hair types and hair characteristics. Kobo experts will also give their takes on major trends like silicone-free products and UV protection for hair. All this hair talk will lead straig...
Jul 25, 2024•48 min•Season 1Ep. 57
Summer is heating up and sunshine (and sun burn) is more front of mind than ever. On this episode, we’re joined by Kobo skincare and sunscreen formulator, Wannapon (“Noey”) Prakobkich, for an in-depth breakdown of Kobo’s June Formula of the Month: KSL-542-AP Zinc Only Sunscreen for Asia Pacific. Tune in to learn how this mineral sunscreen, designed with the Asia and Pacific markets in mind, combines the power of multiple ZnO particle sizes for maximum coverage and minimum whitening. No time to t...
Jun 20, 2024•18 min•Season 1Ep. 56
Introducing our two-part series celebrating diversity in skin and hair care across shades shades, characteristics, and global population needs. In the first installment, we are joined by special guest Dr. Camille A. Martin, PhD., from Seaspire Skincare. Together, we dive deep into some common skin conditions, including skin cancer, vitiligo, and hyperpigmentation, and Dr. Martin shares tips on how cosmetics can be used to prevent and mitigate the effects of these conditions. Tune in to be inspir...
May 30, 2024•34 min•Season 1Ep. 55
Mineral sunscreens utilize zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide to physically deflect UV rays, forming a protective barrier on the skin. While traditional mineral sunscreens often leave a thick white cast, Kobo offers nearly transparent formulas, catering to individuals with darker skin tones who have faced challenges in achieving seamless SPF application. This month, we’re featuring a formula that was created for that very purpose — and it was developed for use as a spray! Listen in as we intervi...
May 14, 2024•24 min•Season 1Ep. 54
Formulating tinted sunscreens can be a time-consuming and complicated task, especially if your goal is to create an inclusive palette. Tune in for a conversation with one of Kobo’s Application Lab Specialists from Brazil on how to make a natural tinted sunscreen stick – and learn a bit about our new product series: KOBOTINT. This episode contains time-saving ingredients and information to help you easily formulate your own tinted sunscreen products. Links: KOBOTINT https://www.koboproductsinc.co...
Apr 25, 2024•19 min•Season 1Ep. 53
Discover a selection of groundbreaking products, formulations, and trends showcased by Kobo at in-cosmetics Global 2024 in Paris, France. If you plan to attend the event from April 16th-18th, don't miss the chance to visit Kobo Products at booth 1K50! Links: in-cosmetics Global Websit: https://www.in-cosmetics.com/global/en-gb.html ABOUT US: Since 1987 Kobo has provided innovative, technology-based raw materials to the cosmetic industry. The product range includes Surface Treated Pigments, M...
Apr 11, 2024•13 min•Season 1Ep. 53
Today’s episode is your one-stop shop for hair-care inspiration, featuring our formula of the month: Nutri & Protective Hair and Beard Mist. This trendy hair and beard care product provides moisture and improved manageability of hair, so you can achieve your desired look with ease. Tune in to learn more about rehydrating ingredients, nourishing properties, and some manufacturing tips as well! Links: Sunscreen Booster : https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-SunBoost-ATB.pdf Specialti...
Mar 30, 2024•15 min•Season 1Ep. 52
Introducing: KOBOTINT, a new color concentrates product series focused on Latin American diversity! Tune in to meet this changemaker on the market, which can and should be used to create inclusive tinted products. KOBOTINT is available in 5 shades, which were carefully developed to match all skin tones and is easy to add to the oil phase of any emulsion or anhydrous formula. The manufacturing process itself is fast, which allows for more efficient operation, less waste, and fewer color adjustmen...
Mar 21, 2024•16 min•Season 1Ep. 51
Film formers are an important category of cosmetic raw materials. They help to enhance the adhesion and substantivity of cosmetic formulations to the skin, lashes, hair, or nails, improving water and rub resistance. Find out more about the many applications of film formers in this episode, where we introduce the newest natural origin additions to the Koboguard® series (available in both water and oil-based versions!) Links: KOBOGUARD® NATURAL PXF: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-K...
Feb 22, 2024•12 min•Season 1Ep. 50
Looking for the ultimate high impact, eye-catching shimmer? Your search is over. We are proud to present the benchmark for Transfer Proof Liquid Eye Shadow (with a highly reflective metal finish, of course). Tune in to learn how to recreate our Foil Effect Transferproof Eyeshadow Series. These formulas are packed with multi-dimensional pearls to achieve prismatic eyeshadow in a single swipe. You won't want to miss it! Links: Effect Pigments https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-KTZ-...
Feb 08, 2024•19 min•Season 1Ep. 49
Kobo’s 2024 global trend predictions have arrived! Join us as we break down the top 5 trends driving the personal care industry and discuss our formulations for the future (or, at the very least, the upcoming year). We'll touch on sunscreen technologies, the polarization of individual preferences, and the desire for customized means of self-expression, from the emergence of "big and bold" to the popularity of "barely there" – and that's just to start! ABOUT US: Since ...
Jan 25, 2024•16 min•Season 1Ep. 48
Interested in learning about formulas inspired by the Asian market? Listen in and learn how to recreate a Multi-functional Sunscreen Primer using Kobo’s Products. We developed three distinct colors to target different skin issues. You won’t want to miss this one! Links: UV Attenuation Nano TiO2 Dispersions https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Nano-TiO-Dispersions.pdf UV Attenuation ZnO Powders https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-ZnO-Powders.pdf Microspheres https://koboproductsinc.c...
Jan 11, 2024•19 min•Season 1Ep. 47
Dressed up or down, red lipstick is always in style! Listen in and learn how to create our high-impact formula: Lipstick to Impress. Tune in for more details about the Kobo ingredients that make this formula pop! Links: KOBOGUARD 5400 – Oil Soluble Film Former https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Koboguard5400.pdf Microspheres https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Microspheres.pdf Pigmentary Grade Dispersions https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-PigmentaryDispersions.pdf ABOUT U...
Dec 21, 2023•12 min•Season 1Ep. 46
The global nail care market is expected to increase over 5% per year until 2033 driven by new nail arts and trends. Consumers will likely seek a wide range of nail care products, including different types of nail polishes, nail gels, nail stickers, and nail art tools to achieve intricate designs. In this episode we will discuss the newest trends for this market and also provide nail product formulator's suggestions of ingredients to use and tips to create new innovative products. Links: KNP-...
Dec 07, 2023•20 min•Season 1Ep. 45
High-impact makeup is a big trend for eye and lip products. These types of formulas feature bright, saturated colors or even glitter and superior shine. During this episode, Kobo's experts will share technologies that can offer this type of effect with an easy manufacturing and development process. We’ll also discuss some formulas Kobo formulated to fit this trend! Links: Pigmentary Grade Dispersions https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-PigmentaryDispersions.pdf ASGP Treated Powder...
Nov 30, 2023•17 min•Season 1Ep. 44
Glowing skin is always in. While having a great skincare routine will help a natural glow, sometimes a little extra is needed. That’s where shimmery makeup such as the formula we will discuss today, can make all the difference to a look. Listen in and find out how to formulate this highlighter as we will review and discuss the Kobo ingredients used to create it. You don’t want to miss this! Links: KOBOGUARD 5400 – Oil Soluble Film Former https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Koboguard5400.p...
Nov 02, 2023•12 min•Season 1Ep. 43
Tune in to learn more about the Glowy Days Trend! After this episode, you’ll know how to create the radiant, dewy, and luminous look that is all the rage right now. We will go over the products Kobo has to offer to create formulations that fit this trend. You’ll also be able to discover some of our favorite formulations for this trend. Links: KTZ® Pearlescent Pigments: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-KTZ-Pearls.pdf KBL-039-EU: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/formulations/KBL-039-E...
Oct 26, 2023•11 min•Season 1Ep. 42
Luxurious cleansers are always in trend. In this episode, we will dive into our Heating Cleanser Powder which warms upon contact with water due to the inclusion of Kobo's Magnesium Sulfate; imparting an extraordinary sensory experience while effectively cleansing, smoothing, and moisturizing the skin. Listen in and find out how easy it is to create this formula as we will review and discuss the Kobo ingredients used to create this cleanser. You’ll want to share this one with fellow formulato...
Oct 12, 2023•17 min•Season 1Ep. 41
The pet care market is expanding and is expected to increase by 5.1% annually until at least 2030. This episode will discuss some trends, products, ingredients, and regulations for pet grooming products. We’ll also discuss the differences between cosmetics for pets and humans. Links https://www.ctpa.org.uk/news/are-pet-grooming-products-cosmetics-6351 https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/resources-you/animal-products-fda-regulates https://animallaw.foxrothschild.com/2020/01/21/regulatory-standa...
Sep 28, 2023•22 min•Season 1Ep. 40
Find out how to create a Hybrid Sunscreen formula, using mineral and chemical actives for efficient, non-whitening, lightweight, and inclusive sunscreens. In this episode, we will discuss Kobo ingredients used to create hybrid sunscreens and present our Hybrid Sunscreen SPF 57 PA++++. You don’t want to miss this one! Links: UV Attenuation Non-Nano ZnO Dispersions: https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Non-NanoZnO-2023.pdf Sunscreen Boosters: https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-SunBoo...
Sep 07, 2023•12 min•Season 1Ep. 39
Sun protection has evolved to include many benefits into one single product, not only UVB and UVA protection. Sunscreens can now be multifunctional products by protecting the skin from blue light and infrared radiation, providing claims like neutralization, soft focus hydration, and color, and can also come in various textures and applications. Today's episode will discuss this trend we call Sun Cubed while sharing some tips to create multifunctional formulas with SPF. Links: HEV-Blue Light ...
Aug 31, 2023•18 min•Season 1Ep. 38
It's easy to get overwhelmed by all the possibilities when formulating eyeliners. Find out how easy it is to create our Formula of the Month, The Simplest Eyeliner in the World. In this episode, we are highlighting our three-ingredient eyeliner. We will review and discuss the Kobo ingredient used to create this simple high-performance liquid eyeliner formulation. You won’t want to miss this episode! Links: Pigmentary Dispersions: https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-PigmentaryDispersio...
Aug 10, 2023•15 min•Season 1Ep. 37
ASGP is a natural origin, hybrid treatment that renders powders hydrophobic and superdispersible. In this episode, we will talk about this product's major advantages, such as the minimal energy required during the grinding phase, the uniform color development, and the creamy feel on the skin. Links: https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-ASGP-Superdispersible-Natural-Treatment-Aug2020-12.pdf https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-ASGPTreatment.pdf Formulas: https://koboproductsinc.co...
Jul 27, 2023•13 min•Season 1Ep. 36
When caring for the skin after sun exposure, it is recommended to use nutrient-rich ingredients to soothe the skin. In this episode, we are highlighting our After-Sun Soother. We will discuss the Kobo ingredients used to create this gel formula that cools and hydrates the skin after sun exposure. Links: Microspheres: https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Microspheres.pdf KTZ Pearlescent Pigments: https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-KTZ-Pearls.pdf Glycospheres: https://koboproductsinc...
Jul 13, 2023•11 min•Season 1Ep. 35