Eastman launches Esmeri SK1N10 biodegradable micropowder for skin and SPF boost
- Esmeri SK1N10 is a readily biodegradable, non-nano cellulose ester micropowder (INCI: Cellulose Acetate Butyrate (and) Disodium Succinate).
- Formulated for aqueous and oil-in-water systems, it provides immediate soft-focus blurring, quick dry-down, reduced tackiness and a powdery matte finish and is compatible with actives such as retinoids.
- In sun care, the ingredient scatters UV to boost SPF, potentially enabling lower UV-filter concentrations while improving tactile properties.
- It meets biodegradability criteria in EU Regulation 2023/2055 (so is not classed as a synthetic polymer microparticle) and is positioned as an alternative to PMMA, nylon-12, silica and traditional cellulose powders.
Product overview
Eastman launched Esmeri SK1N10, a readily biodegradable, non-nano cellulose ester micropowder (INCI: Cellulose Acetate Butyrate (and) Disodium Succinate) designed to reduce trade-offs between biodegradability and sensorial performance in skin care and sun care formulations.
Performance and applications
Designed for aqueous and oil-in-water systems, Esmeri SK1N10 delivers immediate soft-focus blurring, quick dry-down that reduces tackiness, and shine control for a soft, powdery matte finish. It can be used in serums, creams, moisturizers, sprays, eye treatments and sunscreens and is compatible with commonly used actives such as retinoids.
Sun care benefits
In sun care formulations the micropowder enhances both organic and inorganic UV filters through UV scattering, producing an SPF-boosting effect that may allow formulators to reduce UV-filter concentrations while also improving tactile properties.
Regulatory and market context
Esmeri SK1N10 meets the biodegradability criteria of EU Regulation 2023/2055 and is therefore not considered a synthetic polymer microparticle under that rule; it is sourced under Eastman’s wood pulp sourcing policy. Eastman presents it as a readily biodegradable, non-nano alternative to legacy microparticles such as PMMA and nylon-12 and as an option against silica and traditional cellulose powders.
Eastman’s R&D survey of personal care CPG and FMCG companies found nearly half of respondents expect biodegradability to become mainstream in their region within two to five years, while only 52% expressed satisfaction with current market offerings. A consumer survey of 6,000 women and girls across six countries reported 45% have difficulty finding facial skin care products that meet all their needs, citing sticky texture, post-application greasiness and lack of visible results as common frustrations.
Source: Eastman