A Comprehensive Review on Cosmeceutical

Abstract

Now days a new hot topic in the cosmetic industry is \'Cosmeceuticals\', which is the fastest growing segment of the natural personal care industry. Cosmeceuticals are the future generation of skin care. They are the advances made within the world of dermatological products and the new backbone in skincare. All cosmeceuticals claim to contain functional ingredients with either therapeutic, disease-fighting or healing properties. The term Cosmeceutical was coined by Raymond Reed but the concept was further popularized by Dr. Albert Kligman in the late 1970’s. Cosmeceuticals are topically applied as cosmetic Pharmaceutical hybrids, intended to enhance the beauty through ingredients that provide additional health-related function or benefit. That means they are applied topically as cosmetics, but contain ingredients that influence the skin\'s biological function. Today’s Cosmeceuticals are serving as a bridge between personal care products and pharmaceuticals; also Cosmeceuticals are the fastest growing segment in skin care market. There is no regulatory category for Cosmeceuticals; hence this review tries to understand regulatory scenario as well the difference between drug and cosmetics is enlightened. The paper is an earnest endeavor to evaluate a Cosmeceutical product that claims a beneficial physiologic effect. This review paper is to give recent knowledge about the latest trend of cosmetic Industry Cosmeceuticals.

Introduction

Cosmeceuticals are hybrid products that combine cosmetic and pharmaceutical properties. Unlike traditional cosmetics, which only enhance appearance, cosmeceuticals contain bioactive ingredients that influence the skin’s biological functions to improve health, texture, and appearance. The term, blending “cosmetic” and “pharmaceutical,” is not legally recognized by authorities like the U.S. FDA or EU, leaving these products in a regulatory gray area between cosmetics and drugs.

Key Features and Benefits

Cosmeceuticals provide therapeutic effects such as anti-aging, acne treatment, and sun protection. They are formulated with active compounds like antioxidants (Vitamin C, E, Niacinamide), botanicals (Aloe Vera, Green Tea, Witch Hazel), retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives), peptides, and hydroxy acids, which target wrinkles, pigmentation, and inflammation.

Types and Classifications

Products are categorized by ingredients (e.g., organic, essential oil, CBD-based, vegan, or paraben-free) and application areas (e.g., eye or lip care). Specialized cosmeceuticals exist for conditions such as acne, eczema, dermatitis, rosacea, and diabetic skin sensitivities.

Technological Advances

Recent developments include the rise of “dermaceuticals”—clinically oriented products emphasizing active ingredients and skin health. Sustainability drives innovation, with brands replacing parabens and fossil-based substances with plant-derived alternatives.
Nanotechnology has become integral, enabling better ingredient delivery, enhanced absorption, and improved safety in formulations.

Testing and Regulation

While not classified as drugs, cosmeceuticals undergo dermatological testing and ingredient screening to ensure efficacy and safety. Dermatologists and estheticians oversee formulation standards in the absence of direct FDA regulation.

Ingredients and Innovations

Cosmeceuticals are rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins, promoting long-term biological changes. The industry increasingly focuses on vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainable ingredients, reflecting consumer demand for ethical and environmentally friendly skincare.

Conclusion

Cosmaceuticals are cosmetic products containing biologically active ingredients that provide pharmaceutical-like benefits, such as anti-aging or acne control, beyond simple aesthetic enhancement. The term is a portmanteau of \"cosmetics\" and \"pharmaceuticals\" and describes products intended to influence the skin\'s biological functions to improve its health and beauty. These products are not formally recognized as either a cosmetic or a drug by regulatory bodies like the US FDA or the EU.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Shahid Ali Ansari, Mr. Sujeet Pratap Singh, Mr. Pramod Mishra, Dr. Tarkeshwar P. Shukla. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.