The Beauty Spot

In this expert Q&A, Dr. Catherine Leray, Account Head of R&D at THG LABS, explores the scientific progress helping define product development across the category. From substantiating longevity claims and cumulative performance benefits to advances in scalp biology, follicular science and bioactive ingredients, she discusses how innovation is focussing less on the hair fibre itself and more about the biological systems that influence long-term hair health.

The boundaries between skincare, wellness and haircare continue to blur and consumer expectations around performance, ritual and transparency are growing rapidly more sophisticated. In this Q&A, Kristal Goodman, Head of Product Innovation at THG LABS, explores the key shifts shaping the future of haircare development, from precision-led formulations and biotech actives to clinically substantiated claims and emotionally driven routines. The discussion reflects several of the themes explored in THG LABS’ latest Haircare Report, offering insight into how brands can respond to changing consumer behaviours with science-led innovation and next-generation product strategies.

More ingredient-literate and performance-focused consumers means haircare is becoming a more sophisticated, treatment-led category shaped by premiumisation, scalp health and clinically inspired innovation. In this Q&A, Aurelie Brunel, Product Innovation Manager at THG LABS, discusses the market signals influencing modern haircare development, from evolving shampoo expectations and problem-solution language to the role of efficacy in driving long-term brand loyalty

On 11th September 2025, at the BBIA BioFinance Summit in London, THG LABS joined Clean Food Group and Croda on stage to announce that Clean Oil™ 25 has achieved cosmetics regulatory approval across the UK, Europe and the United States.

This Summer, THG LABS are partnering Catalyst Science Discovery Centre to co-sponsor their Sun Protection Scientists Summer Workshops designed specifically for families and children to learn more about what the sun’s UV rays do to our skin, how sun protection products work  and why wearing sunscreen is essential, whatever the weather.

Continuing THG LABS commitment to Innovation with Purpose, we’re pleased to announce our collaboration with Carbonwave, the world’s leading developer of ultra-regenerative, plant-based, advanced biomaterials from seaweed. Hear more about our partnership which aims to enhance the environmental profile of our extensive skincare, haircare, suncare and body care formulation library while reducing the impact of ecologically harmful Sargassum seaweed.

Haircare is entering a new phase of premiumisation, defined by precision, performance and prevention. Consumers are more informed than ever, and as they demand outcome-driven products they want targeted solutions that work, with measurable lasting results they can see and sustain.

This report explores what’s driving that change. We look at how every day formats like shampoo are being repositioned at a premium level, why efficacy-led and clinically credible language is gaining traction and how science, behavioural data and consumer demand are collectively redefining how haircare is formulated, positioned and experienced.

Foundational hair and scalp health is becoming an increasingly important consideration, supporting more preventative and long-term approaches to care. Ritual and repeat use are also becoming key markers of success, reinforcing the need for formulations that perform consistently while delivering a rewarding user experience.

Drawing on insight from our Product Innovation and Data teams, we’ve translated these trends into practical direction for brands that sets out where the real opportunities are and how to go after them.

Dermocosmetics continues to redefine the boundaries between clinical credibility and consumer skincare, driven by growing demand for science-led, results-focused products that prioritise skin health. We're seeing the category influence mainstream skincare, bodycare and haircare, as brands look to balance high-performance efficacy, tolerability and sensorial appeal. Our Product Innovation Team explore the forces shaping the dermocosmetic landscape, from ingredient sophistication and regulatory considerations to evolving consumer expectations around performance, trust and transparency. Drawing on market insight and formulation expertise, it provides practical perspective on how dermocosmetic thinking is translating into real-world product development opportunities.

Welcome to THG LABS 2025 Haircare Trend Report. Science, wellness, and innovation are converging and haircare is going to new lengths to deliver for the consumer. It’s a move that prioritises performance, wellbeing, ingredient efficacy, and inclusion, ensuring solutions are hyper-personalised, results-driven, and deeply rooted in long-term scalp and hair health. Curated by our Product Innovation Team, this report explores data insights, the latest consumer behaviours, market dynamics, ingredient technologies and future trends making waves in haircare.

This presentation explores the perceived innovation gap between haircare and skincare, examining why haircare has historically lagged in clinical validation and scientific storytelling despite strong market growth and rising consumer expectations.

Originally presented by Dr. Catherine Leray, Account Head of R&D at THG LABS, during the Haircare Gap webinar hosted by Cosmetics Cluster UK, the deck draws on formulation science, hair biology and practical development experience to unpack the structural challenges limiting innovation.