Eastman redefines Green Cosmetics with Esmeri™ CC1N10

Eastman has unveiled a landmark innovation in sustainable beauty, introducing Esmeri™ CC1N10—a biodegradable micropowder poised to transform the color cosmetics industry while aligning with strict EU microplastics regulations.

Eastman Debuts Esmeri™ CC1N10 for Cosmetics

Global specialty materials leader Eastman announced the launch of Esmeri™ CC1N10, a high-performance, readily biodegradable cellulose ester micropowder for color cosmetics. Sourced from certified, sustainably managed forests, Esmeri is engineered to comply with the European Commission’s stringent microplastics regulations (Regulation EU 2023/2055), offering brands a solution that fully biodegrades and does not persist in the environment.

Esmeri™ CC1N10 delivers a visually superior soft-focus optical effect, improved color intensity and payoff, and uniform coverage in products like lipsticks, foundations, and pressed powders. The ingredient is highly compatible with lipophilic cosmetic formulations, making it a sustainable alternative to traditional microparticles without compromising on performance.

Performance Meets Sustainability

Leveraging more than a century of expertise in cellulose esters, Eastman developed Esmeri™ CC1N10 to meet evolving regulatory and consumer demands for safer, more sustainable beauty products. The micropowder is freshwater, readily biodegradable, non-nano in size, and sourced from 63% wood pulp. It aligns with the European Union’s Zero Pollution Action Plan, which aims to reduce microplastics released into the environment by 30% by 2030.

Travis Smith, executive vice president at Eastman, highlighted the importance of this innovation:

“Cosmetic brands must evolve to anticipate and meet upcoming regulatory requirements as well as societal demands for safe, more sustainable products people love and use every day—without compromising performance,” Smith said. “We look forward to collaborating with more formulators as they work to meet these demands and differentiate their products in a crowded marketplace.”

Enhanced Beauty Benefits

Esmeri™ CC1N10’s unique properties enable beauty brands to create products that optimally scatter light, fill in fine lines and wrinkles, and deliver a smooth, even finish across a range of applications:

• Lipsticks: Improved color intensity and long-lasting, even application.
• Liquid foundations: Soft-focus, mattifying effect that diminishes imperfections.
• Pressed powders: Optimal compaction and pick-up for a photo-finished appearance.

Chris Killian, senior vice president and chief technology and sustainability officer at Eastman, added:

“We are proud to launch Esmeri as the latest solution from Eastman, showcasing our long-standing history and expertise with cellulosics technology. Esmeri reflects our broader commitment to aligning growth with sustainability by advancing circularity and delivering high-performance materials that are better for people and the planet, with more to come across the personal care space,” Killian said.

Commitment to Responsible Sourcing

Certified by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC™) and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®), Esmeri™ CC1N10 underscores Eastman’s commitment to responsible sourcing and sustainable forestry practices. Eastman recently showcased Esmeri™ CC1N10 at in-cosmetics Global in Amsterdam (April 2025) and NYSCC Suppliers' Day in New York (June 2025).