AI tools for safer, biodegradable cosmetic ingredients
A cosmetics company introduced two AI-based technologies designed to assess the biodegradability and safety of cosmetic ingredients. These tools manage the collection and analysis of large datasets related to ingredient evaluation. The development forms part of an effort to combine digital transformation with research expertise. The technologies support research processes and address environmental and safety considerations in cosmetics. According to the company, the developments contribute to progress in the cosmetics industry and support the realization of a sustainable society.
Key takeaways
The company launched two AI-based tools that evaluate the biodegradability and safety of cosmetic ingredients. One biodegradability AI tool helps streamline research into how materials degrade. A second AI tool focuses on safety information and regulatory compliance.
Biodegradable beauty
Two AI-based technologies were introduced to evaluate ingredient biodegradability and identify safety information for cosmetic ingredients. These types of evaluations require collecting and analyzing large datasets. The biodegradability assessment method supports an industry shift toward materials that can return to a natural state, which promotes circularity.
Cosmetic ingredient suppliers are increasingly turning toward bio-based and biodegradable solutions. This shift reflects consumer demand for sustainable and non-synthetic products. Recent developments include Eastman and Kolmar Korea partnering to develop natural cosmetic ingredients made from tree-derived cellulose and biodegradable polymers. Afyren and Esse Skincare introduced what they describe as the “world’s first” bio-based propionic acid for the personal care industry.
The biodegradability AI assessment tool aims to streamline research on biodegradable cosmetic ingredients. Conventional testing approaches can require significant time and cost, and results may vary depending on individual experience.
The company developed the AI tool together with the National Institute of Technology and Evaluation in Tokyo, Japan. The system predicts the biodegradability of cosmetic ingredients by analyzing chemical structures and degradation rates.
Regulatory compliance
The method builds on an AI-based quantitative structure-activity relationship model called an AI-QSAR model that evaluates biodegradability. This model was originally developed for Japan’s Act on the Regulation of Manufacture and Evaluation of Chemical Substances. The regulation forms part of a broader government initiative focused on monitoring chemical safety.
The company states that a high level of predictive accuracy was achieved by comparing measured values with predictions generated by the AI-QSAR model and refining the system step by step. The tool allows a fast assessment that does not depend on advanced expertise or extensive testing. The company intends to eventually apply the AI model across the cosmetics industry.
Ensuring cosmetic safety
The second AI technology focuses on identifying safety information related to cosmetic ingredients. It collects available data associated with evaluated ingredients. This includes information such as repeated-dose toxicity and skin sensitization.
The company states that the process reduces the risk of individual bias and oversights. Specialists can then focus on making final safety decisions.
The research improves the precision and reliability of safety assurance. It allows professional resources to be directed toward new research and talent development. The system has made it possible to reconsider ingredients that were previously set aside because of insufficient information, which opens possibilities for future innovation in cosmetics.
