Stephenson, a leader in the development and formulation of soap bases, syndets, and specialty ingredients for the personal care industry, is renowned for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer collaboration.
Rob Carr, Managing Director of Stephenson, says, “The beauty and personal care industry is on the cusp of an even bigger transformation when it comes to consumer demand for sustainable, inclusive, and effective products. As a global innovator, our R&D team identified three pivotal trends in 2025 that will align with our mission to create high-quality, eco-conscious products that empower brands and consumers alike.”
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Taking control over beauty choices
Consumers are stepping away from invasive cosmetic treatments in favour of products that enhance their natural beauty safely and effectively. A significant decline in filler procedures signals a shift toward holistic and non-invasive skincare solutions. According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), there was a 27% drop in filler treatments in 2023. As consumers prioritise safety and individuality over rigid beauty standards, Stephenson’s Durosoft range, featuring naturally derived polyglyceryl esters, enables the development of nourishing skincare products that support healthy aging without invasive procedures. -
Focusing on climate-conscious choices
In the beauty industry, sustainability is no longer a luxury but an expectation. Consumers are increasingly drawn to brands that demonstrate genuine commitment to ethical sourcing, eco-conscious production, and environmental stewardship. As climate change impacts intensify, green chemistry and responsibly sourced materials have become essential in beauty formulations. Stephenson champions this ethos with its Melt & Pour soap bases and Syndopal syndets, crafted using RSPO-certified sustainable palm oil. Stephenson’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond its products, with an ambitious goal to achieve water-zero status by 2035. -
Beauty for all ages
The narrative around anti-aging is shifting, with consumers of all ages prioritising skin health and longevity over quick fixes. From Gen Z to Baby Boomers, there’s a rising demand for multifunctional, accessible products that nurture the skin and combat stressors like UV exposure and pollution. Stephenson’s semi-finished soap bars, enriched with nourishing ingredients such as Goat Milk, cater to this need for simple yet effective skincare solutions. The Syndopal range is formulated for daily use and promotes long-term skin and hair health with gentle and versatile ingredients. These products exemplify the “prevention over repair” philosophy, supporting a lifetime of healthy skin.
Empowering the future of beauty
In 2025, Stephenson anticipates a return to simplicity in beauty routines, driven by sustainability, safety, and inclusivity.
“We’re committed to supporting brands and formulators as they navigate these trends,” concludes Rob. “From our innovative ingredients to our sustainability initiatives, we aim to empower the industry to create products that resonate with the modern consumer, and we look forward to sharing our knowledge and expertise with all our customers.”
For more information or to explore Stephenson’s product range, visit www.stephensonpersonalcare.co.uk.