From e-PHA to inclusive design and light-weight, innovations in beauty

Eva Lagarde

The latest beauty innovations from the supply side include e-PHA from Element Beauty Group, Inclusive design white-paper by Aptar, the 3-in-2 magnetic brush from HNB corporation, a light-weight glass dropper by Stoelzle and a full-glass refillable jar by Bormioli Luigi.


E-PHA to replace ABS

The PHA developed by Element Sciences is available for injection moulding as well as blow moulding and thermoforming applications. It is 100% sourced from bio-content and can come in a high-gloss surface finish for luxurious touches in beauty packaging. It can be used as a replacement for ABS thanks to its sturdy design properties. Its cost is in line with industry standards and can be easily integrated into cosmetics ranges.

E-PHA is ideal for cushion compacts, cosmetics jars & spatulas as well as cosmetics caps & closures for make-up and skincare application. It replaces ABS offering similar properties and processability. It can directly be converted into existing ABS moulds, limiting manufacturing investment and increasing production turnaround.

For jars & spatulas, E-PHA is a great replacement for PP material reducing the use of fossil-based plastics for 100% bio-based packaging (PLA, PHA, Soy ink). It can be printable without the need for processing.

E-PHA can also be implemented into cosmetics caps and closures production, for ABS replacement in existing moulds since it offers similar manufacturability and finishes. E-PHA can also be easily post-processed for matte finishes for instance.


From Field Work to Prototype: Aptar releases a white paper on Inclusive Product Design for Beauty. ‘From Field Work to Prototype: A Comprehensive Guide to Aptar’s Inclusive Product Design Process’, it highlights the importance of inclusivity in the beauty sector. More specifically, it seeks to inspire the market by sharing its internal design process, which integrates Universal Design Principles to create accessible dispensing solutions.

To establish the design process, Aptar Beauty collaborated with APF France Handicap, an organisation dedicated to supporting people with disabilities in France. The NGO supported Aptar Beauty by integrating UX design and ethnography approaches to understand the realities and experiences of people with disabilities. “By adopting universal design principles, beauty brands can address the specific needs of the elderly or disabled people with fine motor disorders. At Aptar, we are convinced that this approach is the right way to innovate,” said Xavier Joseph, Vice President of Global Marketing & Innovation at Aptar Beauty.

Inclusive Dispensing Solutions

Five products in Aptar Beauty’s catalogue are showcased for being especially valued by individuals with fine motor skill disorders, thanks to their easy-to-use design: the GSA dispensing pump with N4 or T8 Swan actuator, EuroFlow with Falcon actuator, the VITA dispensing pump and the GLADIATOR aerosol actuator.

Aptar’s overarching objective is to introduce an inclusive packaging line that caters to all consumers.


HNB 3 in 2 magnetic brush

This interchangeable magnetic brush is a simple, space-saving way to take a beauty routine to the next level.

This kit includes 3 brush heads with one handle and is designed to be fully interchangeable with magnetic brush heads.

  • Stackable, Compact, & Perfect for on-the-go.

Stoelzle, Elixir - a light-weight dropper

Stoelzle’s One-Stop-Shop approach: Elixir can be customised in-house and is compatible with various dispensers, which can be supplied by Stoelzle.
Two years after the launch of Le Perpétuel, a lightweight refillable jar, Stoelzle is excited to launch Elixir, a standout addition to their Masnieres standard collection for cosmetics and a significant step forward in its commitment to sustainability. With the launch of Elixir, a lightweight glass bottle dedicated to cosmetic products, especially serums and foundations, Stoelzle aligns itself with the growing desire of cosmetic brands to adopt more environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
This stylish dropper bottle not only offers a sophisticated look but also prioritises sustainability and practicality to elevate your serum and foundation experience, thus combining the aesthetic and functional benefits of glass with a reduced carbon footprint.
Elixir represents a remarkable evolution in packaging design. By reinventing their standard serum bottle, Stoelzle has achieved a significant weight reduction. At just 53 grams, Elixir is 32% lighter than its predecessor, which weighed 78 grams. This innovative approach not only enhances the bottle’s usability but also underscores Stoelzle’s dedication to sustainability.

Elixir’s lightweight design results in 32% less environmental impact compared to the standard 30ml serum bottle, thanks to a reduced raw material consumption., making it a conscious choice for environmentally-minded consumers.
Despite a reduction in glass weight, Elixir ensures optimal mechanical strength while minimizing environmental impact through a reduction in CO2 emissions in particular.
Elixir's classic cylindrical shape, a popular choice for serums and foundations, seamlessly integrates as an alternative to existing cylindrical designs currently on the market. To complement Elixir, Stoelzle offers an array of matching closures that ensure precise dosage and effortless handling ; various dispensers such as spray, pumps, pipettes, and more are compatible with this new dropper bottle,
available in high-quality materials.

Stoelzle Elixir

REFILLABLE GLASS JAR - full glass by Bormioli Luigi

Bormioli Luigi is launching "Reverre", a full glass refillable jar. It stands out with a glass inner cup that the consumer can replace with a simple gesture. This patented concept is made airtight thanks to a plastic ring designed so it does not perturb the recyclability of the product. Combined with an offer of original caps, this is a sustainable packaging solution with a premium appeal and an extended lifespan.

"Reverre" is offered in two development options: the predeveloped catalogue design can be simply personalised with décor and embellishments, and there is also the possibility for a made-to-measure concept. In the second scenario, anything is possible, from the glass shape to the size of the cup and cap; the teams at Bormioli Luigi will put in place the appropriate industrial processes and resolve the technical challenges linked to the design.