At Alchemy Ingredients, innovation never stands still. The creative formulators in our lab are constantly developing new trend-led formulations to help inspire other formulators.
All of their innovative prototypes are made using our own naturally derived ingredients and are shared in our online formulation library.
In the marketing team, we love to see which of these formulations spark inspiration - and often try to predict which will prove the most popular (with mixed results!).
So, which formulations are leading the way in 2026?
Let’s dive into the top 5 most popular of the year so far, with some insights from the formulators behind them.
1. Citrus Lip Gloss Balm
Inspired by the growing demand for glossy, natural lip care, this lush balm delivers hydration, softness, shine - and a subtle pop of colour.
We’ve combined our natural oil-gelling ingredient Sapogel® Q with nourishing cherry oil to create a soft, glossy texture. With an infusion of blood orange and grapefruit essential oils to also uplift the senses.
Why are formulators loving it?
Charlotte Dredge, Development Chemist and creator of this prototype, explains: “Lips in 2026 are all about texture and finish. Juicy, high-shine looks without the stickiness are key—this balm makes it easy to achieve a natural ‘glassy pout’.”
2. Delicate Baby Gel-to-Oil
Gentle, effective, and designed with care - this baby-friendly gel-to-oil formulation has quickly become a standout.
Launched as part of our Baby Care Kit, this prototype was created with sensitive skin front of mind. It transforms from a lightweight gel into a nourishing oil, helping to lock in moisture while remaining non-greasy.
Formulated with our low-use level, natural emulsifier HIPEgel® Oleo C, it delivers that signature quick-break texture formulators love.
Why is it trending?
Iqra Hamid, one of the formulators behind the range, highlights the growing demand for natural, multifunctional baby care solutions that balance performance with gentleness.
3. Magic Eye Cream
Hybrid beauty continues to dominate - and this multi-functional eye cream is a perfect example.
Designed to both treat and perfect, it hydrates the delicate under-eye area while visibly blurring fine lines and wrinkles.
The secret? Elastoblur®, our natural blurring and mattifying ingredient, which delivers a soft-focus effect without compromising on natural credentials.
According to Mariana Santos, Laboratory Technician: “Consumers want skincare that multi-tasks, treating skin whilst delivering instant visible results. This formulation does both.”
4. Collagen Cleansing Balm
A long-time favourite, this transformative cleansing balm continues to impress both customers and formulators alike.
Its rich balm texture melts into an oil when massaged into the skin, before transforming into a nourishing milk upon contact with water - creating a luxurious, sensorial cleansing experience.
Formulated with Sapogel® Q for that indulgent balm texture and bio-surfactant Sophocoll® to enhance cleansing performance, it effectively removes impurities while nourishing the skin.
Packed with oils, butters, and uplifting essential oils, it’s skincare that feels as good as it performs. It's my personal favourite too!
5. Skin Perfecting Primer
Creating a 100% natural makeup primer with high performance isn’t easy - but this formulation delivers.
Lightweight and silky, it leaves a powder-soft after-feel with zero pilling, making it the perfect base for makeup.
Powered again by Elastoblur®, it achieves a soft-focus, matte finish typically associated with synthetic ingredients. Combined with our 100% natural emulsifier Instathix®, to create a smooth, serum-like texture that glides effortlessly onto the skin.
Why do formulators love it?
Aisha Nuhu, NPD Manager explains:
“It proves that natural formulations can match - and even outperform - synthetic benchmarks in both feel and finish.”
Discover More Formulation Ideas
Feeling inspired? We’re constantly adding new innovative cosmetic formulations to our library to help you stay ahead of industry trends. Explore more here - and spark your next idea today.