Beauty is a Science story
Chapter IV
SCIENCE AND BEAUTY: A
WINNING
EQUATION
For centuries, the quest for beauty has been rooted in science. With billions of euros invested in beauty R&D, thousands of researchers mobilized, and cutting-edge technologies, the cosmetics industry is developing ever more innovative beauty products tailored to consumer needs.
Europe, a Land of Cosmetic Innovation
With €2.35 billion invested annually in research and innovation, the European beauty industry is constantly pushing the boundaries of cosmetic science. More than 30,000 scientists, spread across 77 innovation centers, work to create increasingly high-performance cosmetic formulas. Proof of this dynamism? 25% to 30% of the 10,000 beauty products from major companies are reformulated every year with new active ingredients and advanced technologies.
L'Oréal, spearheading research
With over €1.3 billion invested in 2024, 21 research centers in 11 countries, a team of 4,200 scientists, and 8,000 digital experts, L'Oréal stands as a major player in beauty innovation.
Results: 694 patterns filed in 2024, 52% of which by women and 3,636 new formulas launched.
The group also launches large-scale studies. Conducted in partnership with Verily (Alphabet), the "My Skin & Hair Journey" study analyzes the biological, clinical, and environmental factors that influence skincare and hair health. It is the largest study ever conducted in the beauty sector. Finally, through its BOLD venture capital fund, the Group invests in innovative beauty startups.
Inclusivity,
a Core Concern
By 2030, 40% of the world's population will have curly hair. Aware of this demographic shift and the diversity of skin and hair types, L'Oréal develops skincare, hair care and makeup products tailored to the specific needs of each individual.
L'Oréal develops a wide range of innovations, such as Melasyl, a patented active ingredient targeting hyperpigmentation. Protected by over 20 patents, Melasyl is the result of 121 clinical studies conducted with 12,000 participants.
40%
of the world's population will have curly hair.
Commitment to a Sustainable Future
A pioneer in reconstructed tissues with its Episkin subsidiary, L'Oréal promotes alternative methods to animal testing.
Furthermore, L'Oréal is committed to using 95% bio-sourced ingredients in its formulas by 2030 (65% in 2023).
Finally, the group is investing heavily in green sciences, biotechnology, and the circular economy.
Lavernos
Barbara
Lavernos
Deputy Chief Executive Officer,
in charge of Research,
Innovation and Technology L'Oréal Group
With 115 years of innovation, L'Oréal is the largest research laboratory in the cosmetics industry. Our researchers innovate every day for a beauty science that is ever more effective, responsible, inclusive, and personalized, that protects against external aggressions, brings well-being and self-esteem, and supports the stages of life, all while reducing its environmental footprint. Creating beauty that moves the world forward means putting ever more effective products and experiences into the hands of our consumers, tailored to the needs of each and every one.
This is not a beauty podcast
A new podcast from L’Oréal Groupe and New York Times explores the essential role beauty plays in the human experience. Across six episodes, hear about the hidden role beauty plays in sports, technology, business, science, health and politics, interviewing individuals from around the world.
