Color and fragrance are two of the strongest cues consumers use to connect with a product. A recognizable hue or a familiar scent can define brand identity, create emotional attachment, and influence purchasing decisions. But these key ingredients are also among the most vulnerable.
Both dyes and fragrances degrade when exposed to UV radiation, heat, oxygen, or shifts in pH. This leads to fading colors, altered scents, and ultimately reduced shelf life. For formulators, protecting these volatile ingredients is critical not only for product stability but also for maintaining consumer trust.
Portefeuille de protection des couleurs et des parfums de Sensient
Sensient Beauty offers a complete portfolio of protectors designed to address these challenges and empower brands to maintain the integrity of their creations.
Gamme Covabsorb
The Covabsorb® range is Sensient’s key range when it comes to protecting delicate colorants and fragrances. In many cosmetic and personal care formulations, dyes are used at very low concentrations, making them particularly vulnerable to light-induced fading and discoloration. Similarly, fragrances are made up of complex blends of volatile compounds that can oxidize easily under UV exposure or heat, leading to noticeable shifts in scent profile. For brands, these changes not only affect product performance but also risk damaging consumer trust.
Covabsorb® addresses these challenges with patented blends of UV filters and antioxidants that work together to extend the shelf life of formulations. By absorbing UVA and UVB rays and slowing oxidative processes, it ensures that both color and fragrance remain stable over time. The range is flexible, with dedicated solutions for alcohol-based perfumes, water-based systems, and rinse-off products, allowing formulators to protect integrity across different product categories.
Sensisorb® CF+
Fine fragrances are often showcased in clear or translucent glass bottles, which makes them visually appealing but also exposes them to UV degradation. This can result in gradual fading of dyes and deterioration of the fragrance profile—both of which undermine a perfume’s identity. Sensisorb® CF+ was designed to address this issue, offering protection in a format free of OMC and BHT that is compatible with alcohol-based fragrances.
The ingredient combines UVA and UVB filters with strong antioxidant activity, delivering results that outperform market benchmarks. Its stability has been proven through rigorous testing, including spectrocolorimetric analysis, HPLC quantification of dyes, and olfactive panel evaluations with fragrance experts. Unlike some UV filters that can migrate or cause yellowing, Sensisorb® CF+ is designed to preserve both clarity and olfactory quality, ensuring that perfumes maintain their original appeal for longer.
Sensisorb® Biomim
In nature, marine organisms such as algae and corals have evolved ways to survive extreme UV exposure by producing molecules known as mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs). Sensisorb® Biomim takes inspiration from this natural defense system, creating a biomimetic compound that provides similar protective benefits in cosmetic formulations.
Beyond stabilizing colors and fragrances, Sensisorb® Biomim also functions as an SPF booster, allowing formulators to enhance sun protection without increasing the concentration of UV filters. This dual functionality makes it particularly valuable in hybrid formulations such as tinted creams or fragranced body care. Safety has been thoroughly validated—studies confirm it is non-irritant, non-sensitizing, non-phototoxic, and biodegradable, making it suitable for use in a wide range of products.
Covabsorb® Nature GP
Consumer demand for natural and sustainable solutions has never been higher, and Covabsorb® Nature GP responds directly to this shift. It is the first 100% naturally derived protector for both color and fragrance, offering a clean-label alternative to conventional UV stabilizers. Its protective power comes from Kaempferia galanga root extract, rich in hydroxycinnamic acids, and Pongamia pinnata seed extract, rich in furanoflavonoids. Together, these actives deliver broad-spectrum UV protection and antioxidant activity.
Unlike synthetic filters such as OMC or Avobenzone, which raise concerns over safety and environmental impact, Covabsorb® Nature GP is biodegradable, traceable, and safe for even the most sensitive skin types. Clinical and in-vitro studies also show added cosmetic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects. Importantly, it has been shown to boost SPF by nearly 50% at low use levels, giving formulators flexibility when designing multifunctional products that are both effective and eco-conscious.
Contact us to find out more about Sensient’s Color & Fragrance Protection portfolio.
