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Fragrance trends play a big part in shaping the consumer experience when it comes to personal care products. At Inline, we’ve honed our craft over three decades, developing innovative products that marry high quality with affordability. One part of this expertise is crafting products with fragrances that truly resonate with our customers – and yours. Whether it’s our range, products developed through our contract manufacturing or white labelling services, we ensure that the products we create feature scents that are not just on-trend, but accessible and appealing.   

Accessible and appealing fragrances  

Our approach to all product development begins with a deep understanding of consumer preferences, and that’s still the case when it comes to fragrance. We’ve spent 30 years working on creating products that resonate with a wide audience. By tapping into their demands, we can identify popular scent profiles that resonate with large groups of consumers – evoking positive emotions and creating a great lasting impression.  

Fragrance isn’t just a nice finishing touch; it can be an integral part of the health and beauty product experience. It has the power to evoke emotions and enhance everyday self-care rituals. Whether it’s a relaxing lavender-infused body lotion or an invigorating coconut and coffee shampoo, we select fragrances that create meaningful connections with consumers.  

Fragrance trends 2024: Rising trends for personal care 

Much like fashion, fragrance is an industry that’s constantly changing depending on current trends. Let’s take a closer look at some fragrance trends that are set to be popular throughout 2024 and beyond.  

Wellness and spa-inspired scents  

We’ve spoken about the rise of home spa and self-care routines on the blog before, and there’s no denying it’s still a huge consumer trend. Fragrances that promote relaxation, reduce stress and evoke a sense of calm continue to be popular. Soothing notes like lavender, chamomile and sandalwood offer consumers a much-needed moment of tranquillity amidst busy and often stressful daily schedules, whether used in perfumes, oils or body lotions.  

Cost-conscious customers  

Changing costs will always influence consumer behaviour and this extends to health and beauty products. As more people face rising costs and smaller budgets, they’re increasingly looking for value without compromising on quality. This trend emphasises great value for money with a pleasing sensory experience. When considering scents that appeal en masse to consumers focussed on affordable options, we recommend using familiar and universally appealing fragrance profiles. Think timeless vanilla, classic floral or refreshing citrus. 

Escapism  

This trend allows consumers to transport themselves to different places through scent. It’s about creating sensory experiences that allow a moment of respite and evoke feelings of relaxation, luxury or adventure. Some examples of scent profiles that embody the escapism trend include tropical fruits like coconut and mango, which conjure up images of sandy beaches, and sea-inspired fragrances which bring to mind fresh air and the tranquillity of the ocean.  

Indulgent gourmand 

Gourmand fragrances in health and beauty products embrace sweet, edible notes that remind consumers of indulgent treats. These scents have an enduring popularity among younger consumers, but are constantly evolving with new and innovative variations that appeal to a wider audience. Scents like vanilla, honey and caramel will always be popular, but trending modern twists on gourmand include scents like pistachio, praline and coffee.  

The future of fragrance trends  

Looking ahead, we’re poised to adapt to any new emerging fragrance trends. Our focus is always on evolving consumer demands, and as the personal care industry continues to innovate with new and exciting trends, we’re committed to staying at the forefront. We’re constantly researching and exploring changing consumer preferences so we can continue to create high-quality, affordable products that inspire and delight the end customer. While we know scent plays a crucial role in product appeal, we also prioritise using effective active ingredients that deliver real benefits.  

Our expertise goes far beyond creating our own ranges of health and beauty products. Our contract manufacturing and white labelling services are designed to empower other brands to bring their product vision to life. Whether you want to launch a new skincare care or expand an existing range of personal care products, we’re here as your trusted partner in product development.  

Are you a brand in search of the perfect partner? We create high-quality and affordable personal care products driven by current trends – including fragrance trends. Whether you’re looking for contract manufacturing or white labelling, we’re confident we can help your brand shine. Please get in touch to see what we can do for you. 

At Inline, we recognise that sustainability is more important than ever. Consumers are more and more conscious of the environmental impact of their buying decisions, and the demand for sustainable beauty products, and sustainable manufacturers, is on the rise.

It’s important to note that we don’t claim to be a supplier of renewable health and beauty products, but we’re doing our part to make sure we’re making sustainable changes wherever we can. We know sustainability is a journey, and we’re dedicated to always improving and implementing eco-friendly practices wherever we can.

Today we’re looking closer at our sustainability initiatives, exploring the steps we’ve taken so far to reduce our carbon footprint, as well as what’s on the horizon for us when it comes to sustainability.

Our sustainability milestones

Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our early days, when we started implementing some simple yet impactful measures. We began to recycle cardboard boxes as early as 1997, and in 1998 we introduced waste monitoring in our production processes, setting a waste target of 0.5%. This marked the beginning of our journey towards an eco-friendly approach to business.

In 2010, we introduced waste elimination initiatives specifically targeting the ‘7 wastes’. These initiatives were designed to help us streamline processes, reduce inefficiencies and limit our environmental impact by cutting down on unnecessary waste. After this, we were able to set and meet clear sustainability goals for the future, including:

  • 2011: We conducted an environmental review to assess our impact on the environment and identify where improvements could be made.

  • 2013-2014: We made strategic investments in our waste management infrastructure. We invested in a bailer for cardboard and plastic, and a semi-automatic IBC cleaning system to control wash-out waste.

  • 2015: We switched to trayless to reduce cardboard consumption. We also introduced a cistern flush regulator system on the toilets which saved 12,000 litres of water per year.

  • 2016: We built a mezzanine to enclose the production area and reduce energy consumption.

  • 2017: We invested in new shrink wrappers to reduce the thickness of the film which has reduced overall plastic consumption.

  • 2018: We switched from a 28mm to a 24mm neck size on our bottles which saved around 2-3 tonnes per year in plastic consumption.

  • 2019: We switched to LED lights, both externally and internally.

  • 2021: We invested in an electric company car, promoting cleaner transport and further reducing our carbon footprint.

  • 2023: We made huge strides in our sustainability journey last year. We began re-selling our kegs and drums, extending their life and contributing to the circular economy. We cut 250 hours of energy from our heating batches by amending product formulations to contain low-heat or cold-mix raw materials.

    We also started recycling glassine backing paper from our labels. Glassine is made up from cellulose fibres from a wood pulp, which makes it easy to break down. That means it’s biodegradable and environmentally friendly, so can be repurposed and made into garden furniture. We fill between four and five boxes a year of glassine, recycling around 600kg per box.

A more sustainable tomorrow  

From the materials we use to the ingredients we source; we’re always striving to find new planet-friendly efficiencies. Today, we use recycled cardboard, poly liners and plastic shrink wrap in our packaging and source ingredients from the UK where possible to reduce our carbon footprint. But that’s not all. Looking to the future, we are constantly exploring new avenues to further reduce our environmental footprint.

In 2023, we had a resource efficiency audit funded by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and conducted by Green Gain. This has given us some great direction to take our sustainability efforts to the next level going forward, and we’re eager to implement the solutions identified.  

Here are some of the future sustainability initiatives we’re excited to embark on in the near future.

Non-carbon black caps

Transitioning to non-carbon black caps is an important step we’ll be taking in 2024. Carbon black is often used in packaging materials like caps, but it presents issues when it comes to recycling. Its dark colour absorbs infrared light, making it hard for recycling facilities to detect and sort correctly. That means they’re often unintentionally sent to landfill. By changing to non-carbon black caps this year once our old stock is depleted, we can ensure our packaging is completely recyclable and contributes to the circular economy. Once we make the change, it will mean that 1,500,000 black caps on our Anovia haircare can be recycled and 6,750kg of plastic will be recyclable.

30% recycled plastic bottles

Also this year, we will be transitioning to 30% recycled plastic bottles. This will result in a substantial reduction in our carbon footprint, saving 11.7 tonnes of plastic waste from being sent to landfill each year and instead allowing it to be recycled. Additionally, the bottles are made using less plastic, saving a further 9 tonnes of plastic per year. Making this change minimises our reliance on virgin plastics and helps us contribute to resource conservation and waste reduction.

Solar film installation

We are looking into installing solar film on our windows, aimed at reducing solar gain in the summer months. By applying solar film, we can effectively reduce the amount of heat that’s able to enter our facility through the windows, effectively lowering the temperature inside and reducing the need to use the air conditioning unit – resulting in reduced air-conditioning costs.

We know there’s a long road ahead when it comes to our sustainability journey, but we’re committed to continuous improvement. Sustainability isn’t an overnight fix, so we recognise the importance of making small but effective changes wherever we can. We’re working with both internal teams and external partners to find new, innovative solutions that help champion sustainability, and will continue to take meaningful steps towards a more sustainable future.

Are you looking for a partner for personal care products? We create affordable, quality products through contract manufacturing and white labelling. Please get in touch to see what we can do for you. If you’d like to keep up with our sustainability journey, you can read about our sustainability efforts here.

At an increasing rate, more people in the UK are recognising and identifying with skin sensitivity conditions like eczema and dermatitis. While research does suggest an increase in young people being diagnosed and treated for sensitive skin conditions, there is also a rise in awareness of these issues among adults. This broader cultural shift means beauty brands need to do their part to understand and address skin health, by ensuring the products they bring to market cater to this growing demographic.

At Inline, it is crucial for us to stay ahead of shifts in the market so we can continue to innovate and meet the evolving needs of our customers. In this article, we’re looking more closely into industry insights to understand the new market dynamics when it comes to skin sensitivities, and how brands can commit to creating products that are tailored for those with sensitive skin.

The rise of skin sensitivities

Sensitive skin is a term used to describe skin that is more prone to adverse reactions or irritations. This can be caused or worsened by environmental factors, skincare products or lifestyle habits, but can also sometimes be genetic or caused by hormonal changes. People with sensitive skin might experience symptoms like redness, burning, dry skin and acne-like breakouts. Common sensitive skin conditions include atopic eczema, a chronic condition that causes inflammation and irritation, and contact dermatitis, a type of eczema that is triggered by contact with a particular substance and causes problems like itchiness, blistering and dry or cracked skin.

As awareness grows around the world, studies are being carried out to look more closely at the increase in sensitive skin conditions. One study, published in ‘Clinical & Experimental Allergy’, looked into eczema diagnosis and treatment in children and adolescents and reported a 10-year increase in its prevalence. Interestingly, the British Skin Foundation also reported in 2020 that the need for regular handwashing since the Coronavirus pandemic resulted in an increase in skin problems in children’s hands. 24%, or 1 in 4 children, it found, were suffering from hand eczema due to increased hand washing.

These statistics tell us that specialised skin and body care for skin conditions is increasingly important. The parallels between increased skin conditions in children and a growing awareness of skin sensitivities in adults suggests a rising demand for skincare products specifically tailored to sensitive skin. 

The fragrance issue

Whether synthetic or natural, fragrance can be a common irritant for those with skin conditions. By removing or minimising using fragrance – particularly artificial – in skincare products, brands can effectively cater better to people with sensitive skin. Fragrances are usually made up of different compounds, some of which can be allergens. Fragrance-free products can provide a safer alternative that’s kinder to the skin by removing these potential allergens. They can offer a more comfortable skincare experience with less worrying about triggering a reaction.

At present, EU regulations list 26 potential fragrance allergens that must be included in an ingredients list when the concentration is more than 0.01% for rinse-off products or 0.001% for leave-on products. However, a recent update to this legislation expanded the list to include 56 newly identified potential fragrance allergens. This shows an increased concern in allergen awareness but is also big news for manufacturers, who now need to consider updates to labelling, formulations and testing before the changes come into effect.   

Specialised solutions for sensitive skin

Aside from carefully considering the use of fragrance, how can brands cater to those with sensitive skin conditions? It all comes down to skincare formulations that are gentle, transparent and effective. Here are the basics about how this can be achieved:

  • Hypoallergenic formulas
    Brands can go one step further by developing products that can be labelled as hypoallergenic. These products are ones that manufacturers can claim result in fewer allergic reactions than other products. They’re created to be gentler to the skin, reassuring consumers that they’re less likely to trigger a reaction. It’s still important to note that thorough testing and correct, legally compliant labelling is crucial in any products that claim to be hypoallergenic. We’ve covered this in more detail in our article, The dos and don’ts of allergy labelling and testing.’ 

  • No harsh ingredients
    When developing sensitive skin formulations, manufacturers can aim to eliminate ingredients that can be harsh on the skin. This could include fragrances and preservatives.  

  • Straightforward ingredients
    When creating skincare formulations for sensitive skin, it is always best to opt for products with simple ingredients lists. There are two great benefits here – it not only reduces the chance of any potential irritants, it also means customers are reassured that they know exactly what they’re applying to their skin.

  • Dermatologist testing
    Consulting with an expert like a dermatologist when working on a sensitive skincare range is a great way to make sure products are safer for sensitive skin. Involving a skincare professional in the formulation process gives customers trust and confidence that the products they use are backed by science.

  • Moisturising properties
    Sensitive skin often has a weakened skin barrier, meaning it can be very prone to dryness. Dry skin can lead to discomfort including itching, redness and irritation. Offering products that help maintain the skin’s hydration is a great way to help reinforce and repair the skin’s barrier. Moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and glycerin can positively affect the skin by offering up a dose of much-needed hydration.

  • pH-balanced formulas
    Ensuring that skincare products have a pH level that works with the skin’s natural balance means there’s less chance of irritation. The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is. The average pH of skin is considered to be in a range of around pH5, with some research suggesting as low as 4.7 for some layers of the skin. People with sensitive skin are often more likely to experience disruptions when it comes to pH balance, so creating products with a pH level that’s similar to the skin’s natural pH can help maintain its healthy levels.

As the demand rises for skincare solutions that cater to sensitive skin, brands need to prioritise creating ranges with formulations that are both effective and gentle. At Inline, we can help you create products that look after skin health while meeting the needs of your customers.

Our end-to-end fulfilment process means we know everything there is to know about creating high-quality, safe products with ingredients that work. We can work with you on contract manufacturing or white labelling. Please get in touch to find out more.

There’s nothing like a good beauty sleep. When we sleep, our bodies work hard to repair our skin, producing new skin cells that help improve its texture. Our skin deals with a lot as we go about our day-to-day, from sun damage to pollution, so a restful night’s sleep is key to keeping skin healthy. It’s why a great night-time skincare routine is so important – it can help unclog and clear pores and support the regenerative process.

A peaceful night’s sleep is linked to a whole host of other wonderful benefits, from keeping our immune systems strong and controlling stress hormones to physical benefits like reduced under-eye dark circles. As a result, savvy brands in the health and beauty market are catching on to the popularity of sleep-enhancing products. From relaxing pillow sprays to indulgent body lotions in calming scents, product ranges that can help promote a good night’s sleep are on the rise.

Keep reading for more on the best products brands can offer to encourage the ultimate beauty sleep, as well as the key ingredients in sleep-enhancing products.

The best beauty products to aid sleep

Creating the perfect environment for sleep is a great way to get the recommended 7-9 hours of uninterrupted rest. Beauty products that promote calm, ease stress, and offset the damage of the day by offering a dose of hydration and nourishment are part of a relaxing night-time beauty routine.

Here are some of the best beauty products to aid a good night’s sleep.  

Pillow mists

Aromatherapy pillow mists and sprays are specifically designed to promote a good night’s sleep. Available in a range of relaxing scents like lavender, chamomile and rose, they’re spritzed onto a pillowcase before bed to help relax the senses and drift off into a more peaceful sleep.  

Sleep mask

Too much exposure to light can interrupt sleep, preventing our brains from producing the sleep-regulating hormone melatonin. That’s where sleep masks come in. Often made from soft, comfortable materials like silk or satin, they block out external light, encouraging a deeper and more restful sleep.

Bath oils or bubbles

It’s no secret that a hot bath is a great way to wind down, and introducing a sleep-enhancing bath oil or bubble bath is the perfect way to level up the relaxation. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, bergamot, sandalwood and clary sage can aid sleep by soothing the mind, and they smell amazing too.      

Body lotion

A good body lotion offers the skin ultimate hydration before bed, making it a perfect final step in a night-time beauty routine. Often formulated with sleep-promoting scents and nourishing, moisturising formulas, they leave skin feeling deeply hydrated until morning.  

Aromatherapy roll-ons

Infused with sleep-enhancing essential oils, an aromatherapy roll-on is a great way to help relieve stress and anxiety, making it a perfect beauty product for sleep. An aromatherapy roll-on has deeply calming properties when rolled onto pulse points like the wrists and neck before bed. 

Night cream

Night cream is one of the most powerful skincare products around. It helps to boost moisture levels, regenerate the skin and improve collagen production, all of which leaves the skin looking firmer and plumper. Night creams are available in many different formulations, but some of the most popular active ingredients include hyaluronic acid, nourishing oils and natural extracts like green tea and chamomile.

Key ingredients in sleep-enhancing products

So, what are the key ingredients in sleep-enhancing products? When it comes to beauty products for sleep, there are a few effective ingredients that pop up time and time again. Here’s a closer look at the most popular ingredients and why they work.

  • Lavender. A famous natural sleep aid, lavender essential oil is the perfect scent to sweep away stress and promote relaxation. Lavender has been found to have a positive effect on the mood and helps relieve stress.

  • Chamomile. Chamomile is known for having a relaxing effect, making it great for encouraging easier sleep. Often drank as a calming herbal tea, beauty products containing chamomile can also have incredible calming benefits ideal for before bed.
  • Hyaluronic acid. One of the most popular skincare ingredients, hyaluronic acid is great for retaining moisture in the skin, making it perfect for a night-time skincare routine. Hyaluronic acid can help restore skin moisture balance, so it’s found in a lot of popular night serums and creams.
  • Oils. Natural oils like rosehip oil, argan oil, coconut oil and almond oil can deliver nourishment and hydration to the skin. They can be applied directly to the face or body before bed or found as popular ingredients in facial oils and moisturisers. 

  • Antioxidants. Known for helping to repair damage caused by the environment and pollution, antioxidants are another key ingredient in sleep-enhancing products. Antioxidants can be found in skincare products in many different forms, including sources of vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B3 and vitamin A.

A great night’s sleep and night-time beauty products go hand in hand, giving today’s brands a unique opportunity to offer innovative products that encourage restful sleep. In an increasingly competitive landscape of wellness and beauty, offering products that contribute to an effective bedtime routine can make you stand out above the rest. 

Are you looking to create beauty products for sleep? We can work with you to create high-quality and affordable personal care products. We offer contract manufacturing and white labelling, to help your brand stand out. Please get in touch to see what we can do for you.

The beauty industry is fast-paced and always evolving, with beauty product innovations constantly driving change. In recent years we’ve seen a shift in consumer demand towards products that not only look, feel and smell good, but also deliver results through active ingredients.

Customers now want to know exactly what’s in their beauty products, and savvy skincare lovers are more and more clued up on the science behind ingredients. As industry insiders, we have to recognise the importance of creating products that not only meet but exceed the expectations of a market that is increasingly discerning. Being keyed into top consumer trends means we can deliver the highest quality products to market; products that customers want, and importantly, products that really work.

Join us as we take a look at the transformative ingredients behind the market’s most popular skincare, haircare and body care products, as we explain the latest beauty product innovations.

Beauty product innovations: key terms explained

Vitamin E  

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant known for its hydrating properties. It can strengthen the skin’s barrier, helping it stay more hydrated. Vitamin E gets on with most skin types and is used in sensitive skin products.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the body and skin. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in moisture, making it an incredibly effective ingredient for skincare. It’s often used in moisturisers, eye creams, serums, lotions and even haircare.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant known for brightening. In moisturisers and serums, it tackles dull-looking skin, making the skin appear much more radiant. Vitamin C offers protection against environmental damage and pollution.

Collagen

Another naturally occurring ingredient, collagen makes up about 80% of our skin. It helps skin’s elasticity, leaving it looking plumper. We naturally lose collagen as we age, so it’s great for anti-aging benefits when used in skincare. It can also be infused into hair products like shampoos, where its strengthening properties help enhance overall hair health.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera has been used in beauty products for generations. Cooling and soothing, aloe vera gel comes from the spiky leaves of aloe vera plans and has some wonderful benefits when used on the skin. Aloe vera has antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for treating sunburn.

Biotin

Biotin is a B-vitamin that’s great for the health of our hair, skin and nails. It’s recognised for encouraging hair strength and growth, making it popular for products like shampoo, conditioner and leave-in treatments. Biotin supports the keratin structure in hair, so is often used to address concerns like hair thinning. 

Keratin

Keratin is key for strong hair. As a beauty ingredient, it’s often used to repair damaged hair and fight frizz, leaving hair smooth and shiny. Keratin treatments replace lost keratin, smoothing the hair’s cuticle and enhancing texture. It’s perfect for people suffering with hair damage caused by chemical treatments or excessive heat styling.  

Argan oil

Argan oil comes from the argan tree, which is native to Morocco. Its hair and skin benefits have earned it the nickname “liquid gold”. Argan oil is lightweight and nourishing, so it’s great as a natural hair conditioner, taming frizz and helping repair split ends. Beyond hair, it can also appear in facial oils and moisturisers to help hydration.  

Caffeine

Often associated with coffee, caffeine is also a powerful ingredient for beauty products, helping to revitalise hair and skin. It can stimulate hair follicles which can help prevent hair loss. It’s also a popular ingredient in eye creams as it can improves blood circulation – reducing the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. 

Micellar water

Micellar water has gained a huge amount of popularity over the past few years as a quick and convenient facial cleanser. It’s made up of a solution of molecules of oil, called micelles, suspended in water. This makes it feel light and refreshing, almost like pure water, when applied to the skin. However, the microscopic micelles work to lift away makeup and impurities, leaving skin feeling clean and refreshed.

At Inline, we recognise that the key to creating effective products is mastering the science behind beauty formulations. We use that knowledge to deliver high-quality, effective products that meet the demands of today’s market of beauty enthusiasts.

Whether you’re looking for contract manufacturing or white labelling, we’re confident we can help your brand shine with consumer-focused products that work. Please get in touch to see what we can do for you.

For brands and retailers, navigating a balance between producing desirable products and ensuring consumer well-being requires a good level of understanding of the dos and don’ts of labelling and allergy testing requirements.  

One commonly encountered term in beauty product marketing is ‘hypoallergenic’. For many customers, it’s a reassuring label that implies a minimised risk of the product triggering an allergic reaction. However, one study, released at the British Association of Dermatologists’ Annual Conference, found that more than a third of products labelled as hypoallergenic actually contained common allergens. For consumers, this challenges the assumption that products with the ‘hypoallergenic’ label are universally safe for allergies and sensitive skin.  

It’s important that brands and retailers not only understand the importance of allergy testing but also the correct (and legal) ways to show this through labelling. Today, we’re looking closer at allergy testing and labelling in the UK to help you understand the key things you need to know.  

Allergy testing and regulations for beauty products  

Let’s first establish an understanding of allergy testing in the beauty industry.  

Ensuring the safety of beauty products and cosmetics needs a multifaceted approach, from smart choices about formulation to strict testing protocols. Brands and retailers need to go beyond the surface of a product to make sure that it’s not only effective, but that it also minimises the risk of allergic reactions. While this testing is a regulatory requirement, it should also always be a cornerstone of responsible, safe product development.  

Are beauty products regulated in the UK?  

Yes, beauty products in the UK are regulated by the UK Cosmetic Regulation, which ensures all cosmetics are fit for purpose. The regulations cover labelling, safety, distribution and advertising. Businesses in Northern Ireland need to comply with the EU Cosmetics Regulation. 

Do you have to put ingredients on beauty products in the UK?  

Yes. Legally, cosmetics businesses in the UK need to include all ingredients on the label. Labelling should be easy to understand and accurate for full transparency.   

What is required on cosmetics labels? 

So, what else is required on cosmetics labels? All cosmetics labels in the UK should include the following: 

  • Name and address of the “Responsible Person”  
  • A product identifier, which can be a name or registered trade name 
  • A list of ingredients  
  • The percentage or concentration of certain ingredients (those with specific regulatory restrictions) 
  • Batch number or lot code for traceability  
  • Function of the cosmetic product  
  • Quantity of the product – i.e. weight or volume  
  • Durability date which indicates the number of months a product can be used safety after opening  
  • Any precautions for use, such as warnings about potential side effects  
  • Any special storage conditions, if required  
  • Country of origin

Any potential allergens need to be emphasised in some way within the ingredient list. This could be through the use of bold text, italics, capital letters or a separate allergen list. 

How to test beauty products for allergens  

There are a few different ways companies in the UK beauty industry can test for allergens. The different testing methods ensure the product’s safety and mean the business is complying with regulatory requirements. Here are some of the ways to test products for allergens: 

  • Patch testing: Applying the product to a patch of skin to check for potential irritation.  
  • Human Repeat Insult Patch Test (HRIPT): Applying the product to the same area of skin to check for irritation.  
     
  • Dermatologist testing: Working with dermatologists for clinical testing using human volunteers.  
     
  • In vitro testing: Using cultured cells in a lab setting to assess certain parts of product safety. This method means businesses do not need to test on animals or use human volunteers.  
     
  • Consumer use testing: Giving the product to a group of people to use regularly, then assessing any reactions during everyday use.  
     
  • Allergen patch testing: Actively testing for certain allergens.  
  • Laboratory testing: Analysing ingredients individually to look for potential allergens.  

The dos and don’ts of allergy labelling and testing 

Here’s a run-down of the do’s and don’ts of allergy labelling and testing: 

DO list allergens clearly 

Make sure you clearly list any potential allergens in the ingredients on the label.  

DO use clear language 

Language should be straightforward and simple. 

DO be accurate and up-to-date 

Allergy information should reflect any changes in formulations or regulations.  

DO regularly test products 

Check the safety of the product through regular, ongoing testing.  

DO collaborate with healthcare professionals 

Get expert insights by teaming up with professionals like allergists or dermatologists.  

DO train staff on allergen labelling: 

Make sure any staff involved with labelling have been provided with full training.  

DON’T use vague statements  

Don’t use generic ‘may contain’ statements unless there’s a genuine risk.  

DON’T make false or misleading claims  

Be completely transparent and don’t make any misleading claims about a product’s ability to prevent allergies.  

DON’T ignore customer feedback 

Always investigate customer feedback and reports, especially if they’re related to allergies.  

DON’T overuse fragrance or common allergens  

Always be mindful of ingredients that might trigger and allergic reaction and don’t use excessive fragrance.  

We hope this taught you more about allergy testing and labelling regulations in the UK. If you’re looking for a cosmetics partner, our end-to-end fulfilment process means we know everything there is to know about creating high-quality, safe products. Whether you’re looking for a contract manufacturing partner or a white labelling partner, get in touch to see what we can do for you. 

In recent years, self-care has become a huge consumer trend, with enormous business potential for the brands ready to tap into it. It’s no surprise – as the world has navigated unprecedented challenges like the pandemic, for many, the need for self-care has now become a priority rather than an indulgence.

The desire to create moments of relaxation and calm amid our busy and often stressful daily lives has driven consumers to seek out new self-care solutions. No longer content with the occasional visit to a spa or beauty salon, people want to integrate self-care into their daily lives and skincare routines in a way that’s simple and accessible. This shift represents a perfect opportunity for brands to innovate and re-evaluate their product offerings to meet these evolving demands.

In this article, we’re exploring the current popular home spa trends and shedding some light onto how brands can respond to this new demand for spa-like home self-care routines.

Replicating spa routines at home

A few factors fuel the evolving trend of replicating spa routines at home. Maybe most crucially is the ongoing cost of living crisis, which has led many consumers to evaluate their expenses. For a growing number of people, the cost of a relaxing spa day is now difficult to justify. People want spa-like experiences that don’t break the bank. That means brands have a unique opportunity to offer high-quality, cost-effective products that give their customers a sense of luxury without the high price tag.

The way brands use ingredients is changing too, as customers become more clued up about the ingredients in their skincare. In the past, high-end spa and salon treatments used products filled with expensive active ingredients and complex formations. These exclusive ingredients are now more accessible than ever to the average person. Brands are catching on that people want spa-quality skincare filled with advanced ingredients that actually work, like acids and retinol. That means they’re increasingly available on the shelves of mainstream high-street shops at a price that’s affordable for the masses.

Customers are more informed than ever about skincare and beauty. The above factors – along with the growing influence of social media and celebrity skincare lines – mean people are now forgoing the spa and embracing complex, multi-step skincare routines in the comfort of their own homes.

Self-care Sunday and current home spa trends

“Self-care Sunday” is the idea of devoting one day a week to well-being. It’s a weekly practice that sees people set time aside on a Sunday to focus on pampering and self-care, like a calming skincare routine or a luxurious soak in the bath. It’s the perfect way for people to prioritise their physical and mental well-being, press pause on the chaos of the week and recharge.

As this practice gains popularity, brands can recognise its significance by developing products that are tailored to enhance people’s “self-care Sunday” routines. This could include:

  • Bath products: Bath bubbles, bath oils and bath salts with relaxing scents elevate the bath experience.

  • Face masks: Sheet masks, clay masks and peel-off masks to hydrate, soothe and detoxify.

  • Skincare sets: Cleansers, toners, serums and moisturisers designed for a thorough and relaxing skincare routine.

  • Haircare products: Shampoo, conditioner, treatments or oils with calming scents for head-to-toe pampering.

  • Body care products: Products like body mists and body butters to promote a full-body spa experience to further boost relaxation.

  • Essential oils: Essential oils that can be used in diffusers, added to baths or applied topically for relaxation and stress relief.

By offering a wide range of pampering products with spa-like scents like lavender, rose, jasmine and eucalyptus, brands can fulfil a growing customer need and show themselves to be responsive and customer-centric – helping to increase brand loyalty and trust.

The rise of cruelty-free body care products for home spa treatments

Another trend we’ve seen emerge in recent years is the demand for cruelty-free body care products for home spa treatments. In today’s eco-conscious world, customers don’t just want quality, they’re also on the lookout for products that align with their ethical values. Cruelty-free body care products mean no animals were harmed or subjected to testing during their creation – it’s more than just a label though, it sends a strong and positive message to customers.

Choosing cruelty-free body care products for home spa treatments aligns with many people’s principles of kindness and compassion. A 2022 report on UK Beauty & Grooming found that the phrase ‘cruelty-free’ is amongst the top three most attractive marketing terms for beauty and grooming products. It’s a philosophy that’s not only kind but can also help boost sales. 

Vegan body care products for home spa treatments

It’s not just cruelty-free products that are on the rise, today’s market is also increasingly interested in vegan body care products for home spa treatments. Vegan products not only ensure no animals are harmed but go a step further by ensuring no animal-derived ingredients are used in their creation. This includes ingredients like lanolin, collagen, keratin, beeswax and honey.

It’s another change that’s driven by the growing ethical values of customers – and it’s happening on a global scale. Studies show that in 2022, the vegan cosmetics industry was valued at £14.31 billion worldwide. Europe is key to this and is alone estimated to be worth £1.81 billion by the year 2028.

It’s clear that vegan cosmetics and body care products for home spa treatments isn’t just a trend. With the UK vegan food market growing at a rate of 9.58%, brands that offer vegan beauty products for a home spa experience have a ready and growing market to cater to. 

Innovation and accessibility for self-care products

The beauty industry is always adapting to evolving trends and consumer demands. Brands that recognise the significance of staying ahead and introducing new products that customers are actively looking for are well-positioned to thrive in this changing landscape.

In today’s market, we’re seeing more and more pioneering products that seek to recreate the spa experience. From LED face masks to at-home micro-needling devices, it’s easier than ever to get professional-level results at home. But these products often come at a high price, and self-care shouldn’t be just for a select few. While innovation drives the industry, making self-care accessible is equally important.

At Inline, we believe in self-care being a practice that everyone should embrace. It’s this vision that drives us towards bringing affordable self-care products to consumers, to ensure that the home spa experience is within reach for everyone. Our contract manufacturing services help with the efficient production of self-care solutions. We can rapidly develop and formulate new products while maintaining the highest standards of quality, so that more people can recreate the spa experience at home – something everyone can benefit from.

Are you a brand in search of the perfect partner? We create high-quality and affordable personal care products driven by current trends. Whether you’re looking for contract manufacturing or white labelling, we’re confident we can help your brand shine. Please get in touch to see what we can do for you.

Tantalize clear self-tan product to launch in B&M

We are thrilled to announce our partnership with B&M, where we will be launching our fantastic range of Tantalize self-tanning products to stores nationwide starting on the 5th of July 2023.

Known for their commitment to offering customers high-quality and affordable products, B&M is the perfect partner for our self-tan range. This exciting collaboration will enable even more tanning enthusiasts to experience remarkable results and transformative benefits that Tantalize is renowned for.

Gone are the days of visible streaks, orange tones, and unpleasant odours associated with traditional self-tanning products. Tantalize is a game-changer, boasting a clear, lightweight formula made from 97% naturally derived ingredients including hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E, that seamlessly blends into the skin without leaving any residue. This ground-breaking solution has been meticulously developed by our team of experts, who have over 25 years of experience formulating award-winning self-tans, to deliver a flawless tan that is natural and long-lasting.

Tantalize self-tan range

Key features and benefits of Tantalize:

  1. Transparency redefined: The clear formula ensures a streak-free application, eliminating the fear of uneven tan lines or messy results. Users can confidently apply the product without the worry of staining clothes and bedsheets.
  2. Natural tan: The clear self tan adapts to individual skin tones, providing a customisable tan that looks as though developed naturally under the sun. Users can achieve their desired level of bronzing by simply adjusting the application frequency.
  3. Odour-free experience: Say goodbye to that tell-tale biscuit smell. This advanced formula has been carefully crafted to be completely fragrance free.
  4. Skin nourishing ingredients: Made from 97% naturally derived ingredients with no artificial colours or synthetic dyes, and free from parabens and sulphates.
  5. Made in the UK for full quality control.
  6. Vegan and cruelty free: Inline Health and Beauty is committed to creating products that are both ethical and sustainable.

Tantalize is set to hit the shelves in B&M stores nationwide from the 5th July to 1st August 2023. If you would like to discuss the benefits of stocking Tantalize this summer, talk to our team.