Zanna McFerson, Chief Business Officer, Amyris

Building on the success of its Neossance Squalane product, a sustainable alternative to the squalane derived from sharks’ corpses, Amyris has launched a new plant sugar-derived light emollient addressing the mid-price market. “Cosmetic formulators are increasingly finding demand for products that are derived from sustainable sources with equal or improved performance to products currently in use and with a competitive price. Our hemisqualane is yet another sustainable choice. We are very encouraged by the early response and demand we are experiencing from some of the leading brands in Japan, the Americas and Europe,” said Zanna McFerson, Chief Business Officer, Amyris.

Neossance Hemisqualane has been designed as a natural alternative to petroleum-based paraffins and silicone ingredients. According to Amyris, it addresses an even larger market than Neossance Squalane. In skin care, it can create “elegant and light textures with a non-tacky, non-greasy and smooth finish”, the company claims. In makeup, “Hemisqualane facilitates a smooth and even application for lipsticks and foundations due to its high spreadability.” It also demonstrates excellent cleansing properties for makeup removal applications including for waterproof formulations like mascara. It can also be used in hair care products, such as conditioners and styling products, to provide great spreadability and uniform application.

Neossance Hemisqualane is Ecocert-approved and has also received The Natural Seal that certifies compliance with the Natural Products Association (NPA) Standard for Personal Care Products. It is a USDA certified 100% bio-based product.