Blogs

SPF is no longer a standalone category, and the brands paying attention are already rethinking where it fits in the wider routine. Aurelie Brunel, Product Innovation Manager at THG LABS, explores the under-served formats and consumer shifts set to shape the next wave of suncare innovation, drawn from insights in our Suncare 2026 Trend Report. 

Discover why hands-on product immersion plays a vital role in beauty innovation. Lisa Tucker, Product Development Director at THG LABS, explores how sensory evaluation, texture, fragrance, packaging and application rituals can reveal opportunities that market data alone may miss, helping brands shape products that are distinctive, technically credible and commercially scalable.

Market reports, consumer data and ingredient forecasts provide an essential view of where beauty is heading. Yet some of the most useful product development insights only become apparent when a formula is physically handled, applied and experienced.

Skincare actives are finding their way into sun protection, and it's more than a marketing trend. Kristal Goodman, Head of Product Innovation at THG LABS, unpacks the formulation science behind the shift, and what it means for the future of SPF, drawn from insights in our Suncare 2026 Trend Report.

Reapplication is one of suncare's biggest untapped opportunities  but only if the format makes people want to use it again. Roger Rowson, Account Head of R&D at THG LABS, explains why format and texture are becoming as important as protection itself, drawn from insights in our 2026 Suncare Trend Report

Regulation shapes how far suncare innovation can go, and the brands getting it right treat compliance as part of the process, not an afterthought. with Sarah Pursey, Head of Regulatory Compliance at THG LABS, unpacks the challenges shaping the category, from cross-border divergence to skincare-led claims.

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

An exploration of how beauty brands and manufacturers can work together more collaboratively to create stronger, more differentiated products. This article looks at the value of involving your manufacturing partner earlier in the development process, combining consumer insight with formulation expertise, and integrating R&D, regulatory, packaging and testing capabilities to unlock smarter, faster and more commercially effective innovation.

An honest look at what beauty product development timelines really involve, from initial brief and formulation through to testing, regulatory approval, packaging and commercial scale-up. This article explores why speed-to-market is often misunderstood, where timelines can realistically be compressed, and how a full-service manufacturing partner helps brands maintain momentum from concept to commercial launch.

Biotech is going to have a huge influence on the future of beauty but the hard work happens after the discovery. We look at the formulation constraints, commercial pressures, and scaling challenges that determine whether a breakthrough ingredient ever reaches a consumer. And why the UK, with the right partnerships in place, is well positioned to lead. Why Bio-Based Beauty Is the UK's Biggest Opportunity

The CEW Future of Beauty Summit brought together brand leaders, retail strategists and digital experts to map where the industry is heading. From the rise of AI-driven discovery and longevity science to the growing expectations of expert creators and a reimagined physical retail experience, the standards being applied to beauty products are rising across every dimension at once. Here, our Head of Marketing & Communications, Jessica Lawther, shares the key takeaways and what they mean for brands building products today.