Blogs

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.

Haircare is growing faster, premiumising and becoming more performance-led, but innovation in this category plays by different rules to skincare. In this expert-led article, THG LABS Account Head of R&D, Dr Catherine Leray explores the perception that historically haircare innovation has lagged, where real growth is now emerging, and what it truly takes to engineer credible, high-performing haircare solutions at scale.

The rise of Exosomes is prompting renewed interest in how the skin communicates, adapts and responds to stress and ageing. In this article THG LABS Head of Product Innovation, Kristal Goodman dives into what exosomes are, why they’re gaining attention in regenerative skincare and the considerations that matter for brands exploring this space. We also outline how brands can work with exosome-led technologies in a way that supports stability, compliance and credible product development.

On National Manufacturing Day, THG LABS celebrates the role of UK cosmetics suppliers and cosmetics manufacturing in powering beauty innovation. Discover how our end-to-end model combines sustainability, speed-to-market, and industry expertise to help brands scale private label beauty products in the UK, spanning skincare, suncare, and haircare – taking ideas from lab to launch with confidence.

THG LABS’ expert insight into the rise of skin longevity and the slow ageing movement explains how beauty brands can innovate in skincare, haircare and bodycare. In this article our Head of Product Innovation, Kristal Goodman, covers the science behind long-term skin health, consumer trends driving demand, and the growing link between longevity and dermocosmetics. It dives into proven active ingredients, advanced delivery systems, and regulatory-safe claims that help beauty brands create science-backed, prevention-focused products with strong consumer loyalty.

Despite UV exposure being a year-round reality, SPF is still often thought of as a summer companion, something to pack for beach holidays and hot days in the park. For beauty and personal care brands, this presents an opportunity to meet a broader range of needs and become part of consumers’ daily lives with products that feel relevant whatever the season