O&3, specialist supplier of natural oils and ingredients, has released its Wellness in Beauty & Personal Care 2026 Trend Report. The report translates global consumer behaviour and raw material dynamics into six core product development directions that will shape the year ahead.
O&3 identifies a fundamental market shift: Wellness is now defined by biological function, sensory reward, and formulation efficiency. The priority is not more steps or more actives, but products that feel good, work consistently, and integrate smoothly into daily life.
This evolution demands that ingredients not only provide demonstrable function, but that their associated sensory experience also actively influences performance by driving routine consistency.
Consequently, sustainability is shifting from being an aesthetic concern to an operational necessity. This pressure also sees multi-functional products reduce SKU complexity, while fragrance moves toward a skin-close, personal scent identity.
The Six Ingredient Trends
The annual report outlines the six ingredient trends shaping the 2026 market:
- THE PERSONAL BARRIER: Barrier care is situational, driving demand for lightweight oils that replenish lipids without sensory heaviness.
- SENSORIAL WELLNESS: Texture drives routine consistency and performance, making sensory design a direct contributor to real-world efficacy.
- FUNCTIONAL MINIMALISM: Fewer products, higher purpose. Multi-benefit products are replacing complex regimens.
- PLANT INTELLIGENCE & CLIMATE-ADAPTIVE INGREDIENTS: Resilient botanicals offer greater supply stability and consistent performance.
- CIRCULAR & UPCYCLED INGREDIENT SYSTEMS: Resource efficiency is a strategic supply strategy, with upcycled oils prioritised to reflect verifiable operational sustainability.
- OIL-BASED FRAGRANCE SYSTEMS: Fragrance is worn for the self, offering skin-close wear and emotional grounding compatible with wellness routines.
These developments signal a border evolution where ingredients must work harder, feel better, and align with long-term wellbeing goals.
To gain deeper formulation and ingredient insights, download the full Wellness in Beauty & Personal Care 2026 Trend Report via the O&3 website.
