No Filter with Kobo

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, we explore Kobo’s100% Natural Origin Lip Oil in Black Cherry, a modern lip oil that blends natural origin formulation with high-performance color and sensory experience.Spencer and Elsie are joined by Su-Anne, Application LabChemist in Kobo UK, to break down how this formula delivers a balance of color, care, and texture, all while achieving a 100% natural origin claim. Inspired by the timeless “Black Honey” aesthetic, this lip oil combines a sheer, buildable black cherry shade with a cushiony, non-sticky feel that enhances the natural lip tone.The conversation dives into the structure behind theformula, highlighting key ingredients like CO15M5 for glossy texture and stability, KOBOGUARD® NATURAL 3000P for film-forming performance, and SunBoost AEB Natural for nourishing, antioxidant-rich benefits. The team also exploreshow Kobo’s pigment technologies enable shade development in natural color cosmetics, without relying on traditional lake pigments.From formulation challenges to customization opportunities,this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how modern lip oils can deliver on performance, sensory appeal, and clean beauty expectations, all in one elegant formula.Visit the links below to learn more about the formula andits standout Kobo ingredients:KLG-129-EU 100% Natural Origin Lip Oil in Black Cherry: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/formulations/KLG-129-EU.pdfCO15M5: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-FumedSilicaGellants.pdfKOBOGUARD® NATURAL 3000P: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-KoboguardNatural3000series.pdfSunBoost AEB Natural: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-SunBoosters.pdfBMV-ASGP5 (Manganese Violet): https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-ASGPTreatment.pdfOD Dispersions: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/products.aspx?p=Pigmentary&c=Natural%20Dispersions#OD75RJE ABOUT US: Since 1987 Kobo has provided innovative, technology-basedraw materials to the cosmetic industry. The product range includes Surface Treated Pigments, Microspheres, Suncare and Color Dispersions, Silicone Fluids, Specialties, Natural Ingredients, Effect Pigments, Boron Nitride and DeliverySystems. Kobo has five locations, USA (Corporate Headquarters), France, Japan, Brazil, and UK and is represented globally by independent agents.Learn more at: ⁠https://www.koboproductsinc.com

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, we proudly unveil Kobo’s 2026 Color Palette, a curated collection of six shades designed to celebrate color, creativity, and emotional connection in cosmetics.Gabby is joined by Nicole Young, Marketing Coordinator at Kobo, to share the inspiration behind adopting a full palette approach and how it was developed through cross-industry research and global collaboration, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity, versatility, and emotional impact. Together, they explore the six shades: Royal Plum, Tranquil Teal, Fearless Fuchsia, Dusty Rose Romance, Gold Enlightenment, and Cloud White, and how each was thoughtfully selected to reflect authority, calm, bold self-expression, nostalgia, optimism, and purity.In the second half, Elsie takes the conversation from inspiration to execution, welcoming Maria Garcia Alvarez from Kobo’s UK Applications Lab. Maria dives into the formulas that bring each shade to life, breaking down Kobo’s pigment dispersions, pearl technologies, and effect pigments that transform color concepts into high-performance cosmetic applications.From curated color storytelling to the ingredients that makethese shades possible, this episode explores how Kobo’s 2026 Color Palette translates emotion into formulation, empowering brands and formulators to create products that resonate, perform, and inspire.To explore the formulas behind each shade in Kobo’s 2026 Color Palette, visit the link: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/formulations/Kobo-2026-KolorPalette-Formulary.pdfStay connected and up to date with Kobo by following us onsocial media:Instagram (@koboproducts)LinkedInFacebookX ABOUT US: Since 1987 Kobo has provided innovative, technology-basedraw materials to the cosmetic industry. The product range includes Surface Treated Pigments, Microspheres, Suncare and Color Dispersions, Silicone Fluids, Specialties, Natural Ingredients, Effect Pigments, Boron Nitride and DeliverySystems. Kobo has five locations, USA (Corporate Headquarters), France, Japan, Brazil, and UK and is represented globally by independent agents.Learn more at: ⁠https://www.koboproductsinc.com

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, Gabby dives into Kobo’s 2026 Global Self Expressions, a forward-looking exploration of how consumers around the world are redefining beauty through emotion, texture, and innovation. She’s joined by Marie Hansell, Technical Marketing and Account Manager at Kobo Products, who breaks down why the conversation has shifted beyond trends into authentic self expressions, where beauty becomes personal, sensory, and deeply connected to wellbeing and identity.Marie walks us through the five key expressions shaping2026: All the Feels, Waterless Wave, Barrier First, Geo-Responsive, and Lessentials, exploring how each reflects evolving consumer values around sensorial experience, sustainability, environmental adaptation, and minimalistroutines. She also highlights the formulations that bring these expressions to life and a behind-the-scenes look at the trend development process, offering insight into how cultural shifts, ingredient innovation, and artistic experimentation inspire future-facing product creation.Whether you’re a formulation chemist, brand strategist, orbeauty lover fascinated by where the industry is headed, this episode uncovers how science, emotion, and self-expression will shape beauty in 2026 and beyond.Want to learn more about Kobo’s 2026 Self Expression?Request a recording of the 2026 Global Self Expressions Webinar by clicking this link: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=0g_VwXVtw0enrQnXWGJAhVipw50oG3lMoQj9mzweNghUMU1JNDNQVERGSkpKSE83TkZGWExYQktJNS4u ABOUT US: Since 1987 Kobo has provided innovative, technology-basedraw materials to the cosmetic industry. The product range includes Surface Treated Pigments, Microspheres, Suncare and Color Dispersions, Silicone Fluids, Specialties, Natural Ingredients, Effect Pigments, Boron Nitride and Delivery Systems. Kobo has five locations, USA (Corporate Headquarters), France, Japan, Brazil, and UK and is represented globally by independent agents.Learn more at: ⁠https://www.koboproductsinc.com

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, Elsie explores thescience of face makeup—from foundation to blush and everything in between. She’s joined by Nick Quinteros, Senior Chemist from Kobo’s US Applications Lab, who breaks down what makes a standout face product, including tips forbalancing texture, coverage, and comfort, plus how evolving consumer expectations are influencing ingredient choices, multifunctionality, and inclusive shade ranges.Later, Elsie chats with Urmi Dhamnaskar, Chemist from Kobo’s UK Applications Lab about KBL-045-EU Squishy Putty Blush, the Formula of the Month inspired by playful textures and soft-focus finishes. Urmi shares the ingredient strategies that give this blush its bouncy, sensorial texture and blur effect—all while maintaining color payoff and batch consistency.Whether you’re a cosmetic chemist or just fascinated by facemakeup innovation, this episode unpacks the formulation decisions that shape skin feel, performance, and creativity across face products.To learn more about KBL-045-EU Squishy Putty Blush, checkout the link below:https://www.koboproductsinc.com/formulations/KBL-045-EU.pdfPrefer to tune in on YouTube? Visit No Filter with Kobo onYouTube now: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmdzjWT5sg37duFECVplihSJNEs58UcGS ABOUT US: Since 1987 Kobo has provided innovative, technology-basedraw materials to the cosmetic industry. The product range includes Surface Treated Pigments, Microspheres, Suncare and Color Dispersions, Silicone Fluids, Specialties, Natural Ingredients, Effect Pigments, Boron Nitride and DeliverySystems. Kobo has five locations, USA (Corporate Headquarters), France, Japan, Brazil, and UK and is represented globally by independent agents.Learn more at: ⁠https://www.koboproductsinc.com

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, Gabby and Elsie are back to explore a side of sunscreen that’s often overlooked, but essential for daily use: texture. From velvety sticks to weightless fluids and creamy hybrid emulsions, they dive into how feel, finish, and format can make or break the SPF experience.They’re joined by three Kobo formulators from around theglobe—Maria Garcia Alvarez (EU), Isabella Bagni Nakamura (Brazil), and Adriana Games (US)—each bringing insights into the formulation strategies behind this episode’s featured sunscreens:☀️High Naturality Max Zinc Stick, Ultra Dry-Touch, Sheer☀️Mineral Fluid Sunscreen☀️O/W Hybrid Sunscreen SPF 35From minimizing white cast to achieving sprayability andbalancing powder vs. dispersion inputs, this episode is a full breakdown in how sensoriality and science converge to drive sunscreen innovation.Whether you're formulating, trend-watching, or just obsessed with finding the perfect finish, this episode shows how today’s sunscreens are designed to feel as good as they perform. ABOUT US: Since 1987 Kobo has provided innovative, technology-basedraw materials to the cosmetic industry. The product range includes Surface Treated Pigments, Microspheres, Suncare and Color Dispersions, Silicone Fluids, Specialties, Natural Ingredients, Effect Pigments, Boron Nitride and DeliverySystems. Kobo has five locations, USA (Corporate Headquarters), France, Japan, Brazil, and UK and is represented globally by independent agents.Learn more at: ⁠https://www.koboproductsinc.com

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, Gabby opens an eye-opening conversation on a topic that's heating up—the full spectrum of solar rays. While most of us are familiar with the need to protect against UVB and UVA, there's more to the sun care story. This episode takes a deeper look at blue light (HEV) and infrared rays, and why formulating for comprehensive protection is more important than ever. Gabby is joined by returning guest Maitree Kanjilal, Applications Lab Manager and Principal Scientist at Kobo US, to help break down the science behind these lesser-known, yet highly impactful, rays.Next, Elsie introduces a standout in sun care innovation: KSL-552A-EU High Naturality Max Zinc Stick, Super Clear, Dry-Touch – a mineral sunscreen stick crafted with performance and trend-driven ingredients. To explore the formulation strategy behind this product, we’re joined by Su-Anne Ng from the Kobo UK Applications Lab, who shares insights into its multifunctional design and development process. Whether you're a formulator, brand owner, or just passionateabout cutting-edge sun protection, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the science and strategy driving next-generation SPF.Want to learn more? Join our upcoming webinar for an exclusive deep dive into the latest advancements in sunscreen formulation—from boosting SPF efficacy to improving product aesthetics and sensory experience.Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5629208610923876700To learn more about the formulaKSL-552A-EU High Naturality Max Zinc Stick, Super Clear, Dry-Touch, click here: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/formulations/KSL-552A-EU.pdfABOUT US: Since 1987 Kobo has provided innovative, technology-basedraw materials to the cosmetic industry. The product range includes Surface Treated Pigments, Microspheres, Suncare and Color Dispersions, Silicone Fluids, Specialties, Natural Ingredients, Effect Pigments, Boron Nitride and Delivery Systems. Kobo has five locations, USA (Corporate Headquarters), France, Japan, Brazil, and UK and is represented globally by independent agents. Learn more at: ⁠https://www.koboproductsinc.com

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, Gabby and Elsie dive into the world of skincare actives, focusing on the ingredient Phytopresome™ - a breakthrough complex designed to enhance the penetration and retention of active ingredients. Joining us once again is Hironobu Tatsuzawa, Sales Representative at Kobo Asia Pacific, who shares his expertise on this innovative ingredient from Nippon Fine Chemical (NFC).Next, Elsie explores March’s Formula of the Month: KFL-332B Ceramide Facial Moisturizer. She’s joined by Adriana Games, Senior Chemist at Kobo U.S., to discuss the power of ceramides and why they’re essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier, preventing dehydration, and soothing irritation.Tune in to learn how these insights and formulas can elevate your skincare offerings.Check out the links below for more information on NFC’s Phyopresome™ specifications among its three variants, as well as March’s Formula of the Month and its ingredients:Phytopresome™ Cera-36: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Specs/Phytopresome-Cera-36_Specs.pdfPhytopresome™ Asta: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Specs/Phytopresome-Asta_Specs.pdfPhytopresome™ Q10: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Specs/Phytopresome-Q10_Specs.pdfKFL-332B Ceramide Facial Moisturizer: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/formulations/KFL-332B.pdfABOUT US: Since 1987 Kobo has provided innovative, technology-based raw materials to the cosmetic industry. The product range includes Surface Treated Pigments, Microspheres, Suncare and Color Dispersions, Silicone Fluids, Specialties, Natural Ingredients, Effect Pigments, Boron Nitride and Delivery Systems. Kobo has five locations, USA (Corporate Headquarters), France, Japan, Brazil, and UK and is represented globally by independent agents. Learn more at: https://www.koboproductsinc.com

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, we continue our three-part series exploring Kobo’s global trends within the beauty and cosmetics industry for 2025. Gabby and Elsie are back with a collaborative discussion of the next two exciting trends: ‘Modern Nostalgia’ and ‘Brighten Your World.’ Special guests Nicole Young, Kobo's Marketing Coordinator, and Urmi Dhamnaskar, App Lab Chemist from Kobo UK, share their expertise to offer a deep dive into these trends and the innovative Kobo formulas that align with them. Tune in to hear how Kobo’s cutting-edge formulas reflect these trends and discover the latest the trends that can influence your next projects for 2025! Special thanks to Nicole and Urmi for sharing their insights into these trends. Stay tuned for Part 3 of our series coming in February, where we’ll explore the trends ‘Sensorial Beauty’ and ‘One Ingredient Wonder!’ Check out the links below to learn more about each formula mentioned and its ingredients: ·KBL-043-EU Jelly Glow Last-All-Day Blush: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/formulations/KBL-043-EU.pdf ·KLF-366-EU Luminous Glow Foundation: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/formulations/KLF-366-EU.pdf ABOUT US: Since 1987 Kobo has provided innovative, technology-based raw materials to the cosmetic industry. The product range includes Surface Treated Pigments, Microspheres, Suncare and Color Dispersions, Silicone Fluids, Specialties, Natural Ingredients, Effect Pigments, Boron Nitride and Delivery Systems. Kobo has five locations, USA (Corporate Headquarters), France, Japan, Brazil, and UK and is represented globally by independent agents. Learn more at: https://www.koboproductsinc.com

In this episode, we’re continuing our regulatory updates mini-series with a deep dive into the latest on MoCRA (Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act) and its impact on the U.S. beauty industry. Joined by David Lennarz, President of Business Development and Operations at Registrar Corp, we break down the key provisions of the new regulations, from ingredient transparency to reporting requirements, and explore how brands can stay compliant. We then shift gears to introduce Kobo’s Formula of the Month: KFL-348 Moisturizing Serum, a lightweight yet deeply hydrating formula. Claudia Harthaus, one of Kobo’s Application Lab Chemists, walks us through the standout ingredients, including Treme-HA®, Sunboost ATB, and LUSPLAN™ LV-G, explaining how they work together to keep your skin nourished and moisturized all season long. Don’t miss this essential episode on staying ahead of the regulatory curve and keeping your skin hydrated! Special thanks to David Lennarz from Registrar Corp for sharing his insights on the latest MoCRA updates and their impact on the beauty industry. To stay informed and learn more, visit https://www.registrarcorp.com and follow their social media below for all the latest regulatory news! ·LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/registrar-corp ·YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RegistrarCorp-US ·Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RegistrarCorp ·X: https://x.com/RegistrarCorp ·Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/registrar_corp Check out the links below to learn more about the standout ingredients and how they work together in the Formula of the Month! ·KFL-348 Moisturizing Serum: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/formulations/KFL-348.pdf ·Sunscreen Boosters: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-SunBoosters.pdf ·Sodium Hyaluronate: https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-SodiumHyaluronate.pdf ABOUT US: Since 1987 Kobo has provided innovative, technology-based raw materials to the cosmetic industry. The product range includes Surface Treated Pigments, Microspheres, Suncare and Color Dispersions, Silicone Fluids, Specialties, Natural Ingredients, Effect Pigments, Boron Nitride and Delivery Systems. Kobo has five locations, USA (Corporate Headquarters), France, Japan, Brazil, and UK and is represented globally by independent agents. Learn more at: https://www.koboproductsinc.com

In the first installment of our Regulatory mini-series, we'll dive deep into all things Blue Beauty. From examining biodegradability to debunking "reef safe" claims, we'll investigate this trend's growing impact on regulation and product formulation. For our Formula of the Month, we're featuring two formulations of our Powder Sensation Liquid Lip Color to show how you can use microplastic replacements to update your favorite formulas. LINKS: https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Kobo-SMC.pdf https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-YuraQ-M15.pdf Pigmentary-Dispersions-2024-V2 (koboproductsinc.com) Microspheres-US-V1-2024 (koboproductsinc.com) KoboBlur-2024-V2 (koboproductsinc.com) Kobo-SMC-2024-V1 (koboproductsinc.com)

Summer is heating up and sunshine (and sun burn) is more front of mind than ever. On this episode, we’re joined by Kobo skincare and sunscreen formulator, Wannapon (“Noey”) Prakobkich, for an in-depth breakdown of Kobo’s June Formula of the Month: KSL-542-AP Zinc Only Sunscreen for Asia Pacific. Tune in to learn how this mineral sunscreen, designed with the Asia and Pacific markets in mind, combines the power of multiple ZnO particle sizes for maximum coverage and minimum whitening. No time to tune in? A full transcript of the episode is available for download below. https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Non-NanoZnO.pdf https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-SunBoosters.pdf https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Koboguard5400.pdf https://koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Microspheres.pdf Episode Transcript: https://koboproducts.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/NoFilterwithKoboPodcastEpisodeTranscripts/EfP7O6IaOkJCkJ2TeUk-XtcBlLsOqmF8XLwayRHXSYOxDg?e=7zCget

Mineral sunscreens utilize zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide to physically deflect UV rays, forming a protective barrier on the skin. While traditional mineral sunscreens often leave a thick white cast, Kobo offers nearly transparent formulas, catering to individuals with darker skin tones who have faced challenges in achieving seamless SPF application. This month, we’re featuring a formula that was created for that very purpose — and it was developed for use as a spray! Listen in as we interview one of Kobo’s Application Lab Specialists from Brazil on how to formulate a Mineral-Only Sunscreen Spray. This episode is packed with ingredients and manufacturing ideas to help you develop an effective, easy-to-use mineral sunscreen, just like our formula of the month. Don’t miss it! Links: Sunscreen Boosters https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-SunBoost-ATB.pdf Esters https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-IkedaEsters.pdf Gellants https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-FumedSilicaGellants.pdf UV Attenuation Nano TiO2 Dispersions https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Nano-TiO-Dispersions.pdf UV Attenuation Nano ZnO Dispersions https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Nano-ZnO-Dispersions.pdf Microspheres https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Microspheres.pdf Microsphere Complexes https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Kobo-SMC.pdf Oil Phase Film Former https://www.koboproductsinc.com/Downloads/Kobo-Koboguard5400.pdf ABOUT US: Since 1987 Kobo has provided innovative, technology based raw materials to the cosmetic industry. The product range includes Surface Treated Pigments, Microspheres, Suncare and Color Dispersions, Silicone Fluids, Specialties, Natural Ingredients, Effect Pigments, Boron Nitride and Delivery Systems. Kobo has five locations, USA (Corporate Headquarters), France, Japan, Brazil and UK and is represented globally by independent agents. Learn more at: www.koboproductsinc.com

Discover a selection of groundbreaking products, formulations, and trends showcased by Kobo at in-cosmetics Global 2024 in Paris, France. If you plan to attend the event from April 16th-18th, don't miss the chance to visit Kobo Products at booth 1K50! Links: in-cosmetics Global Websit: https://www.in-cosmetics.com/global/en-gb.html ABOUT US: Since 1987 Kobo has provided innovative, technology-based raw materials to the cosmetic industry. The product range includes Surface Treated Pigments, Microspheres, Suncare and Color Dispersions, Silicone Fluids, Specialties, Natural Ingredients, Effect Pigments, Boron Nitride and Delivery Systems. Kobo has five locations, USA (Corporate Headquarters), France, Japan, Brazil and UK and is represented globally by independent agents. Learn more at: www.koboproductsinc.com