Skin care continues to be the fastest-growing segment in the cosmetics and
personal care sector – and anti-aging products are the star performer. These
SKUs go hand-in-hand with top-notch research, unique marketing strategies
and the latest novel ingredients, of course.

“The Anti-Aging Skin Care Market: New Opportunities For Growth” conference at HBA Global Expo explored exciting developments in this market and examined innovative methods to reach consumers.

Wendy Lewis, president, Wendy Lewis & Co Ltd. Global Aesthetics Company, moderated the conference, which featured leading skin care brands such as Chanel and Nu Skin as well as an innovative newcomer to the group, Haber Dermaceutics.

Both Christelle Lasserre, executive director Skin Care Biology Laboratory, Chanel and Helen Knaggs, Ph.D., vice president, Nu Skin, have seen success in 2009 within the anti-aging category. Earlier this year, Chanel rolled out Sublimage Texture Universelle Essential Regenerating Cream, a lightweight formulation heavy on quality anti-aging benefits. Additionally, Nu Skin is planning to expand its AgeLoc skin care range with the introduction of a daily skin care system this October at the company’s global 25th anniversary celebration in Los Angeles.

The dynamic of “life and beauty” is imperative in anti-aging SKUs, noted Ms. Lasserre of Chanel. Claims supported by scientific data are also key for the durability of cosmetics, she added.

New opportunities and innovations in science are also a plus, said Ms. Knaggs of Nu Skin. “Times are changing, and we need to keep up,” she exclaimed. Novel methods in research are reshaping the anti-aging category as well – such as the investigative effect of actives on gene expression. The “inside out” approach of health and wellness via diet and skin care supplements is also big for 2009 and beyond, according to Ms. Knaggs.

Mr. Haber of Haber Dermaceutics, a Canadian skin care company, shared his brand’s success with Nutriplex2C, a complex that fights free radicals and sugar damage – yes, sugar can harm the skin. Studies show that Nutriplex2C offers three times more protection from solar radiation than vitamin C, according to Mr. Haber.