Lessonia Announces Alter

Lessonia has announced the Alter-Powders range of plant-based ingredients that are technical alternatives to unwanted ingredients such as synthetic polymers, talc, surfactants and modified starches.

To develop the ingredients, Lessonia has shifted away from manufacturing exfoliating particles and micronised plant powders. The range is the result of an R&D project aimed at identifying the potential cosmetic applications of many white and colorless plant raw materials, per the company. The ingredients include:

Alter-Emulfaba (INCI: Acacia Senegal Gum (and) Sclerotium Gum (and) Hydrolyzed Cicer Seed Extract) — A powder emulsifier made from natural and plant-based extracts that has few incompatibilities. It possible to formulate very white emulsions with a soft, non-sticky and non-soapy feel. This COSMOS compliant ingredient is a plant-based alternative to the surfactants normally used in emulsions.

Alter-ThickBarley (INCI: Hordeum vulgare seed flour) — This ingredient is a natural and plant-based high viscosity thickener powder with non-greasy textures and a powdery effect. Also COSMOS compliant, it is an alternative to modified starches and synthetic polymers.

Alter-Gelijac (INCI: Glucomannan)— A natural and plant-based gelling agent that leaves a protective film on the skin and allows to obtain high viscosity and translucent gels. This ingredient is COSMOS compliant and an alternative to xanthan, carbomer or synthetic polymers.

Alter-Suspensilia (INCI: Sterculia urens gum (and) Sclerotium gum) — A natural and plant-based suspensory agent powder. It is a COSMOS compliant ingredient and an alternative to synthetic polymers. It has high suspension capacity and low viscosity.

Alter-Talcanioc (INCI: Cellulose acetate & tapioca starch) — A plant-based alternative to talc with the same hydrophobic properties. It is ideal for protecting the skin against moisture and is good for formulating baby powders, makeup or for use as a touch agent.

Related: Compostable Beauty

Morgane Boucher, R&D manager, commented: "The alternative powders in the Alter Powders range are natural, plant based, COSMOS compliant and Ok China.These powders are white or very light color and odorless. Meeting these two criteria was very ambitious and we are delighted to offer these alternative natural ingredients."