Singapore biotech company ArrowBiome has won the active ingredients gold award at the in-cosmetics Asia trade show in Bangkok, Thailand.
The university spin-out founded in 2022 took the top prize for ArcherZyme, the world’s first clinically validated lysin for body odour control.
Silver went to Hallstar for UBI Oléoactif, which supports skin rejuvenation through a novel biological mechanism acting on ubiquitin - a vital cellular protein.
Lucas Meyer Cosmetics by Clariant was recognised with a bronze award for GlowCytocin, which activates oxytocin receptors in the skin, the so-called ‘love hormone’ pathway, to evoke a natural, radiant glow.
In the functional ingredient awards, Momentive Performance Materials won gold for Harmonie NatuVel gel, a 100% natural-origin gel network said to offer formulators a new generation of sensory performance, providing a soft-focus, mattifying effect with a light, cushioned feel.
Dow earned the silver for Dexcare CD-2 Polymer ingredient, which redefines sustainable haircare with a biofermented dextran backbone derived from non-GMO sugarcane.
Bronze was awarded to Hallstar for Olivem Essenza, a naturally derived O/W emulsifier designed for low-viscosity emulsions with a light, hydrating touch.
Meanwhile, in the Spotlight On Formulation Awards, Solabia took gold for Serenibiome, a double-patented active ingredient based that repairs skin sensitivity and helps break the itch-scratch cycle.
Evonik received Silver for X50 NeoSyno-Col, a cutting-edge “cosmetic drone” designed to boost skin elasticity, firmness and density through targeted dermal delivery.
Ichimaru Pharcos took Bronze for Rice Bran Ferment, an upcycled beauty ingredient that harnesses unrefined rice bran to gently cleanse and moisturise the skin while improving smoothness and comfort.
A record-breaking 120 entries were submitted this year, recognising the best new Innovation Zone active and functional ingredients, along with the Spotlight On Formulation Awards judged live at the show.
The judging panel included international cosmetic scientists, R&D leaders and product developers from leading brands, including L’Oréal, Estée Lauder, Amorepacific and Paragon Corp.
The awards ceremony also celebrated the 9 Faces of the APAC Beauty Industry 2025, supported by Personal Care magazine, which recognises nine exceptional professionals shaping the region’s personal care sector.
This year’s winners include Dr Alain Khaiat of SEERS Consulting, Gaurav Datta of Unilever, Hou Juncheng of Proya Cosmetics, Dr Martha Tilaar of Martha Tilaar Group, and Yoshiaki Okabe of Shiseido, among others.
Sarah Gibson, event director of in-cosmetics Asia, said: “This year’s Awards truly reflect the extraordinary pace of innovation shaping the beauty and personal care industry across Asia-Pacific.
“From microbiome-led actives to next-generation biobased polymers, our winners represent the forefront of scientific creativity and sustainability. We are incredibly proud to celebrate their achievements here in Bangkok.”
