DREAM INNOVATIONS

In the world of beauty, anything is possible. We ask the experts to do some crystal-ball gazing and share their dream innovations, and their hopes for the future of beauty.

We ask the experts to gaze into their crystal balls and share their hopes and dreams for the future of beauty.

GOOD GUT, GREAT SKIN

For those who want healthy, resilient skin, the wellness and beauty worlds have now become inseparable. Emma Hobson, education manager for Dermalogica Asia, Australia and New Zealand, says that she’s most excited about the current research into the microbiome. “Both from the inside – with relation to good gut health – and from the outside – with products that work with and facilitate good skin bacteria,” she states. Hobson believes that promising research into the microbiome could be the answer to a wide variety of skin disorders – from managing acne to possibly even treating conditions like rosacea and forms of dermatitis.

BEAUTY FOR EVERYONE

Embracing individuality and diversity is so much more than simply a trend for the beauty industry – skincare and makeup enthusiasts now expect it to be the norm. “For the longest time, beauty companies have had a responsibility to provide for all,” says Lochie Stonehouse, national make-up artist for YSL and Giorgio Armani Beauty. “However, the majority have not followed through, and have only catered to their majority consumers, not their minorities.”

As far as dream beauty innovations go, Stonehouse is excited about a more inclusive beauty world. “Many companies still need to invest in updated formulas and production lines,” he explains. “This is starting to happen, and brands are now waking up to the importance of inclusivity. Every range of foundation, concealer, powder, highlight, blush and contour should come in a spectrum of colours to cater to every single ethnicity on the planet.”

MIGHTY MASKS

Beauty products that provide a relaxation element while also delivering serious results are the way of the future. Murad’s Australasia Pacific education manager, Katy Bacon, explains that the humble face mask is a great place to start. “I was once advised of the importance of regular masking, that everyone needs a ‘giving mask’ and a ‘ taking mask’,” Bacon states. “You need a clay-based mask to draw impurities, toxins and pollution from the pores; and a mask to replenish and infuse concentrated ingredients that target fine lines and wrinkles, hydration, and firmness of the skin.” Bacon hopes the future will bring smart-thinking face masks that can identify skin concerns and treatment. “I’m interested in adaptive skincare, and ingredients that are designed with the ability to read your skin and identify its needs,” she says. “If I could create just one dream beauty invention, [it would be] an adaptive treatment mask that could identify your individual environmental, nutritional and genetic needs, delivering repair, hydration, protection and regeneration.”