#China #Shanghai #SK Chemicals #ECOTRIA CLARO #CLARO CR70

SK Chemicals Strengthens Position in Cosmetics Packaging with Circular Materials

SK Chemicals has made significant strides in the cosmetics container market, showcasing innovative packaging solutions made from circular recycling materials at the recent China Beauty Expo 2025, an event celebrated for its scale and significance in the beauty sector. Held from May 12 to 14 at the Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC), this year’s expo attracted over 400,000 attendees from more than 80 countries, providing a pivotal platform for industry leaders, including SK Chemicals.

China Beauty Expo Overview

The 29th installment of the China Beauty Expo is recognized as Asia's largest beauty trade show, featuring over 3,200 exhibitors and a diverse array of more than 10,000 brands. This annual event brings together key players from various sectors of the cosmetics industry, including research and development, manufacturing, packaging, and logistics. At the expo, SK Chemicals proudly presented its advancements under the theme "On-Hand Solution for a Sustainable Future," highlighting its commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

Innovative Materials for Sustainable Packaging

SK Chemicals has proclaimed leadership in China's copolyester sector, presenting a variety of premium cosmetic containers developed in collaboration with esteemed global beauty brands. These products, which garnered positive attention from attendees, included containers that not only utilized recycled materials but also aimed at enhancing recyclability post-consumer use.

Among the standout items showcased were skin and lotion bottles, moisturizers in jars, compact cases, and various cosmetic caps crafted from ECOTRIA CLARO, a notably versatile copolyester. This material is engineered for efficient sorting and recycling within the PET stream. Additionally, products made from ECOTRIA CLARO-CR70—an innovative, recyclable material infused with post-consumer recycled content—were also prominently featured. This material is designed to assure recyclability after its initial use, thereby contributing to a more sustainable cycle in cosmetic packaging.

The mechanical strength, aesthetic appeal, and compatibility of these copolyester materials with diverse container formats ensure continued usage in upscale cosmetic applications, where clarity and durability are essential for product presentation. Unlike traditional plastics such as PET, copolyester materials provide enhanced transparency, crucial for high-end beauty products.

Closing the Recycling Loop

One of the most noteworthy introductions at the expo was CLARO-CR70, which incorporates up to 70% recycled plastic, exemplifying SK Chemicals’ dedication to promoting a closed-loop plastic recycling system. The introduction of such materials not only sets a benchmark for sustainable packaging in the industry but also aligns with global moves towards environmental responsibility.

In addition to CLARO-CR70, SK Chemicals unveiled other sustainable materials suited for the beauty industry, including SKYPET CR, a circular PET ideal for larger packaging needs, and ECOTRION, a fully bio-based polyol derived from plant sources, also adopted in cushion puffs and synthetic leather accessories.

Aiming for a Sustainable Future

According to Kim Eung-soo, Head of SK Chemicals' Green Materials Business Division, the disposal of nearly 60,000 tons of cosmetic containers globally each year emphasizes the environmental challenge at hand. Approximately 90% of these containers are not recycled, primarily due to difficulties in separating complex materials. SK Chemicals is leveraging its circular recycling technologies to build a sustainable, closed-loop ecosystem specifically for cosmetics packaging. The company's partnerships with international beauty brands, including significant agreements with Estée Lauder and others, further strengthen their commitment to sustainability in cosmetic packaging solutions.

As the beauty industry continues to evolve towards environmental consciousness, SK Chemicals is positioned at the forefront, innovating sustainable solutions that resonate with consumers and promote a greener future for all.