Curious about the scent and flavor waves shaping 2026? Get ready. The Sweet Science Era is arriving with a next-gen tropical boom that feels both futuristic and nostalgic at once. Think lush guava, velvet cacao, neon-bright açaí, sun-warmed passionfruit. These heritage ingredients remix with lab-led precision, biotransformation, and new extraction techniques.

Creators across fragrance, food and beverage, and wellness use these tropi-modern profiles to build hyper-sensorial experiences that merge indulgence with vitality.  From perfumes inspired by edible aromatics to beverages borrowing from top notes and accords, this wave celebrates curiosity, craft, and joyful discovery. Dive in. The upcoming year delivers a future-forward taste and scent wrapped in a warm tropical glow.

‘Guava Girl Summer’ tickled a trend

According to Spate, fragrance-related Google searches for “guava” grew more than 1,000 percent year-over-year. Guava combinations have also seen over 43 percent growth on TikTok. Alongside skin care, “guava” searches have grown 76% across platforms, with Glow Recipe and Eadem among the leading beneficiaries. Last summer, WWD highlighted why guava-themed beauty launches suddenly surged. Clean fragrance brand Ellis Brooklyn inaugurated a Guava Granita Eau de Parfum, and Anna Sui’s Wild Wonder Electric Whisper features guava as a middle note. Guava perfumes continue trending in editorial and social searches!

The guava buzz goes well beyond beauty, igniting fresh momentum in fashion, food, and beverages. Over the summer, views of foodie guava-related content on TikTok grew 34.7 percent year-over-year, while food-related “guava” searches posted a steady 6.1 percent growth on Google. Driven by viral Asian guava candies, interest in fruit-within snacks skyrocketed 766.2 percent year-over-year. Guava anchors juices, spreads, bakery items, seltzers, ice creams, and yogurts.

Guava continues as a key component of the nostalgic Hawaiian “POG” (Passion Fruit, Orange, Guava) flavor profile, often combined with other fruits like mango and strawberry. Guava emerges as a standout in the tropical premium wave, especially the pink-fleshed variety with its bold visual appeal. High-end RTDs and functional beverages increasingly adopt guava. Guava also taps into the rising swicy (sweet and spicy) movement, frequently paired with chilies and citrus.

Tropical combinations rising

The rising interest in POG signals a shift from single tropical notes to cruise-worthy combinations. Açaí already holds strong as a recognized superfood with an earthy profile, and now the opportunity lies in pairing it in more inventive, modern blends. Just check out the magic of this Passionfruit Acai Bowl! Similarly, Bulk Apothecary’s Passionfruit Guava Fragrance Oil leverages a hedonistic combination of tropical fruits to create a vacation vibe for any dwelling.

In 2026, demand for authentic global cuisines and “fruit-forward heat” drives the popularity of these flavors. The “swicy” (sweet and spicy) trend continues, now with layered profiles. Tropical and citrus fruits like mango, guava, dragon fruit, pineapple, and yuzu collide with the complex heat from jalapeno, habanero, and chipotle.

Mindful indulgence

Gourmand scents are moving into richer, more sensual territory, often driven by cacao. Edible notes like roasted chestnut, smoked honey, cherry, plum, and dark cacao blend with resins, woods, and spices to create indulgent winter profiles. Cocoa is also rising in darker, gothic florals, paired with rose and jasmine for intense, mysterious effects. These shifts reflect the growing appetite for gourmand and opulent fragrances.

Demand for cocoa products is rising as consumers seek indulgent, natural ingredients. Interest in cocoa’s functional benefits has also sparked a wave of “intentionally sensory” products. This momentum is spilling into savory and “swavory” ( sweet and savory) formats, showing up in warm beverages and snacks that pair cocoa with spices or coffee notes.

As flavors evolve in 2026, they extend beyond taste. They offer comfort during ambiguity, signal wellness and care, and spark curiosity through bold new combinations. Scents and flavors become tools for resilience, well-being, and joy in the year ahead. During the recent COP 30, Symrise joined an initiative to bring expertise in sustainable sourcing and supply chain management to the responsible sourcing of natural ingredients. Innovative approaches reward the preservation of standing rainforests and create clear value for climate, biodiversity, and society!

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Soap may seem like an everyday staple. We find its story particularly remarkable. With roots stretching back thousands of years, soap has served as so much more than a mere tool for cleanliness. It symbolized luxury, art, and culture. From ancient Babylon to modern Paris, soap can do more for you than washing. It connects to the past, indulges in beauty, and transforms a daily ritual into something functional and profound. Read on to look at how this modest bar has evolved into something truly everlasting.

Ancient wisdom: soap’s beginnings and enduring methods

Has hygiene become an obsession in modern times? Quite the contrary. Soap-making spans nearly 5,000 years, connecting us to a rich historical tradition. Archaeologists have found traces of soap in ancient Babylonian clay artifacts, complete with recipes etched into the surface. In Aleppo, artisans crafted their version by blending olive oil, laurel berry oil, and lye and cooling it underground into avocado-green sheets. Remarkably, we still use this method today, a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient wisdom.

Legend even links Cleopatra to the legacy of Aleppo soap, with stories of the Egyptian queen bathing in milk and using the olive oil blend to nourish her skin. Fast-forward to 13^th-century Florence, where Santa Maria Novella, the world’s oldest pharmacy, began as a convent where Dominican monks hand-crafted remedies and soaps using natural ingredients. They produced creations like buttery milk soaps, a tradition that continues today. Infused with patchouli, verbena, or left neutral, these luxurious bars combine ancient monastic craftsmanship with timeless elegance. Experience the legacy of Santa Maria Novella at boutiques in Seoul, Sydney, Miami, or Bangkok, or order online to enjoy this Florentine heritage at home. Their luxurious creations also make perfect gifts for any occasion!

Nostalgia and luxury: soap in the 20th century 

The mid-20^th century brought soap into the cultural spotlight in surprising ways, sparking nostalgia and appreciation for its influence. Brands like Pears and Cussons sponsored radio and TV programs, giving rise to the term “soap operas.” Even the world of high fashion took note—when photographer Cecil Beaton was asked to define elegance, he replied without hesitation: “Soap and water!” It’s easy to imagine Beaton’s muses—Maria Callas, Barbra Streisand, or Baroness Fiona Thyssen-Bornemisza—relaxing after a long day with a rose-scented Dior soap bar. Dior continues this legacy today with its Prestige Le Savon line, a reimagined nod to mid-century luxury.

Around the same time, Diptyque began elevating soap to an art form. Their smooth, glossy bars, embossed with elegant typography, look almost too beautiful to use. Watching the lettering fade with each wash feels bittersweet and poetic—a reminder of life’s fleeting beauty.

Meanwhile, Yardley of London emerged as a quintessential symbol of British refinement. Famous for their lavender soap, Yardley became synonymous with sophistication, gracing the vanities of post-war households. The brand’s floral-scented bars and elegant packaging reflected an enduring charm that bridged nostalgia and modernity. 

Modern artistry: design and functionality in soap 

In recent years, soap has seen a renaissance as a functional product and a design statement, intriguing and appreciative of its versatility. Even artists have explored its potential. In Thomas Barnthaler’s 2015 book Do It Yourself: 50 Projects by Designers and Artists, John Baldessari provided instructions on soap carving in a work titled A Large Piece of Soap Becomes a Small Piece of Soap Eventually. His playful approach reflects the ephemeral nature of soap while elevating it to an art form.

At Salone del Mobile 2024 in Milan, architect Nicolas Schuybroek collaborated with Aesop to create an installation called Form Follows Formulation. Using Aesop’s cleansing slabs as building blocks, Schuybroek crafted a monolithic structure that celebrated simplicity and elegance.

Fashion brands have also embraced soap’s artistic side. Loewe’s Scent of Marihuana bar, for instance, pairs exfoliating red algae with a soothing sativa aroma, complete with a linen rope for decorative display. Meanwhile, French brand Provendi has reimagined wall-mounted soaps as rotating sculptures, combining charm with practicality.

From ancient traditions to modern reinvention, soap transcends serving as a mere cleanser. We marvel at it as a piece of history, a canvas for artistry, and a small luxury that enriches daily life. Symrise, too, drives innovation in the soap category—explore the latest breakthroughs here. Next time you lather up, pause to appreciate its journey, craftsmanship, and the simple joy it brings. While soap may vanish with each use, its allure and impact remain timeless.

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The rugged Cederberg Mountains of South Africa offer the only place on earth where the hardy rooibos shrub thrives. Enduring scorching summers and freezing winters, rooibos, known as “red bush” in Afrikaans, has become a global favorite. Its rich aroma, natural sweetness, and perceived wellness appeal have made it a global favorite in kitchens, rituals, and design.

Beyond its distinctive flavor and uses, rooibos carries a fascinating history and cultural legacy, deeply connected to the Indigenous people of South Africa. From ancient medicinal practices to modern innovations, rooibos continues to inspire and captivate. Curious to learn how this remarkable plant has shaped traditions, industries, and lifestyles? Read on to explore its story!

Exploring the Rooibos route

The Rooibos Route, launched in 2012 by Sanet Stander, offers an engaging way to discover the history and significance of rooibos. Visitors can tour farms, factories, and tea shops while experiencing rooibos creatively. Tink milkshakes, martinis, steak sauces, and also spa treatments.

Highlights include the Wupperthal Original Rooibos Cooperative in the Tra-Tra Valley, where over 70 Indigenous farmers cultivate rooibos on modest plots, harvesting by hand with sickles. The cooperative operates from a 19th-century thatched-roof building, offering insight into traditional farming practices and cultural heritage.

The Ou Tronk Museum in Clanwilliam showcases rooibos’s journey to global prominence. It features antique tools, vintage packaging, and exhibits on its processing history. At Skimmelberg, an organic farm, visitors can watch the transformation of vibrant orange leaves into tea during the fermentation and drying process.

For indulgence, the Carmién Tea Shop near Citrusdal offers wine and tea pairings featuring rooibos paired with small bites for a sophisticated take on this South African staple.

A cultural and historical journey

The history of rooibos is firmly linked with South Africa’s Indigenous people, particularly the San, who first used the plant as medicine. For centuries, they relied on rooibos’s unique polyphenols, such as aspalathin, to help promote health. The San’s cultural legacy also lives on in South Africa’s ancient rock art. At Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve, over 130 rock art sites—some dating back 10,000 years—offer a glimpse into the spiritual world of South Africa’s earliest inhabitants.

While Rooibos enjoyed global success, indigenous farmers historically saw little of its economic benefits. This changed with a significant milestone in 2021, when Rooibos became the first African product to receive “protected designation of origin” status, similar to Champagne in France. This recognition ensures the name “Rooibos” remains exclusive to South Africa and formally acknowledges Indigenous farmers as traditional knowledge holders. Community trusts now receive 1.5% of the annual raw Rooibos sales, funding development and aid projects to secure a sustainable future for these communities.

Rooibos today: health benefits and modern uses

In skincare, Rooibos’s antioxidants can potentially help signs of aging, combat free radicals, and enhance skin elasticity. Brands like African Extracts Rooibos and African Botanics incorporate rooibos into facial creams and serums, while spas along the Rooibos Route offer rooibos-infused scrubs and massages. Everyday products like Terres d’Afrique Gentle Facial Scrub benefit homes worldwide.

Culinary uses highlight rooibos’s earthy, slightly sweet flavor. Chefs enhance marinades, desserts like panna cotta, and sauces with rooibos. Tea brands such as Teekanne and Eleven O’Clock offer premium blends, while Twinings of London features Pure Rooibos Red Tea pods for Keurig. Ready-to-drink options like BOS Iced Tea and Rooibos-infused craft beers showcase its versatility.

Rooibos’s influence extends to fashion and design. Pantone’s Rooibos Tea” color (Pantone 18-1355 TCX), a rich, earthy tone, evokes warmth and natural beauty. This shade aligns with interior design trends, creating cozy and inviting spaces.

From its medicinal roots to its role in beauty, cuisine, and design, rooibos continues to inspire innovation and cultural significance. Its legacy honors the traditions of South Africa’s Indigenous people while adapting to modern tastes and trends. Whether enjoyed as a tea, embraced in skincare, or admired in design, rooibos continues as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and tradition. How will you incorporate rooibos into your routine? Comment below and share your thoughts!

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Valentine’s Day 2025 celebrates love in every form. Around the globe, people express affection, friendship, and admiration. Some send heartfelt messages to friends, family, and partners. Others surprise loved ones with flowers, candy, or creative cards. You may consider planning a romantic dinner! Valentine’s Day highlights unique traditions that reflect the vibrant diversity of cultures worldwide.

In Estonia, friends exchange thoughtful gifts, candles, and cards. In Wales, couples honor Saint Dwynwen, the patron saint of lovers, with beautifully carved wooden love spoons. South Korea shines a spotlight on singles with “Black Day,” where friends gather to enjoy black bean noodles. Ghana transforms the day into National Chocolate Day, celebrating the cocoa industry with tastings, dinners, and festive events. The Philippines hosts grand weddings, uniting hundreds of couples in love.

Across South America, couples savor the occasion with intimate romantic dinners in countries like Argentina, Peru, Russia, and Colombia. No matter where you celebrate, Valentine’s Day reminds everyone to cherish the people who matter most. How will you make February 14 memorable this year?

Bridget plays cupid globally

Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy will start in theaters internationally on February 12, 2025, and in the United States on February 13, 2025. France will open on February 12, Argentina, Australia, Denmark on February 13, and the United Kingdom on February 14. The highly anticipated rom-com sequel (nine years since the third in the series) will be available to stream exclusively on Peacock in the United States. Nine previous cast members will reprise their roles in this story, which now finds Bridget widowed in her fifties, navigating the love of their child, and finding love again. Her bravery and devil-may-care attitude have inspired others before!

Rihanna sends hearts to all

The singer’s brand, Savage X Fenty, released a collection of lingerie, sleepwear, lounge, and accessories, highlighting love in all forms. The accompanying Love Your Way campaign stars the singer alongside Love Is Blind’s Serena Page and Kordell Beckham, model RJ King, and chef DeVonn Francis. It also features sisters, TikTok sensations Hayley and Jules LeBlanc, and friends and models Jade Gordon, Minami Gessel, and Noni Cyngor. The campaign’s imagery highlights romantic love, self-love, familial love, and the beauty of friendship. “Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love in all its forms,” says Rihanna. “At Savage X Fenty, we’re all about embracing love in every way and creating products that let people feel confident while doing so.” Check out a few standouts from the collection and shop the full Love Your Way drop at savagex.com.

Chocolates or fragrance?

Now, we can help you with choosing the right thing! Two traditional Valentine’s gift ideas come together in Lush’s 2025 Valentine’s Day fragrance collection, which smells like chocolate. Perfume can serve as a great Valentine’s Day gift because it can connect to emotions and create memories. A fragrance that reflects the recipient’s personality and taste can be especially meaningful. Speaking of taste, Bath & Body Works announced a Valentine’s collaboration with iconic Sweethearts candy! Dior speaks to luxury packaging being the lure for their Valentine’s offerings, while Armani mesmerizes with Sì EDP Intense fragrance. The key notes of black tea, rose, vanilla, and blackcurrant come together to create a memorable Valentine’s entrance —or exit!

Symrise believes Valentine’s Day offers the perfect time to treat yourself and your loved ones. Weigh in and let us know how you plan to embrace love in all forms!

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We have entered 2025, and food has evolved into so much more than what we eat—it’s become a lifestyle, an art form, and, for some, a status symbol! Gone are the days when meals just meant nutrition or comfort. Today, every bite, sip, and snack tells a story about who we are, what we value, and how we lead our lives.

Food now stars in the stories we tell about ourselves. Scroll through Instagram, and you’ll see it everywhere: from London’s @laurakhoshaba, who documents Harrods’ decadent food halls, to the US duo @sistersnacking, sampling jaw-dropping $227 Ballerina Farm pastries. These meals mean so much more than just food. They are forming memory-making moments! They’re aspirational, meticulously curated, and almost too beautiful to eat.

Even the once-humble chicken salad has experienced rebranding. Bethenny Frankel, the mastermind behind Skinnygirl, has made a project to critique this staple’s “elite” versions, diving into the fine line between simple and special. Meanwhile, everyday people are finding ways to elevate their daily meals. Office workers like @jensintec and @MeganKittyEats turn their cafeteria spreads into envy-inducing reels, while college student @gliocius transforms basic campus fare into culinary inspiration. This conveys a clear message: food serves as your canvas no matter who you are!

Erewhon: where groceries become couture

If one brand captures the spirit of food as status, then we need to talk about Erewhon. This LA-based luxury grocery chain has redefined what it means to shop for groceries. A $20 smoothie here would feel neglected if you called it a drink. It offers you a badge of belonging to a particular lifestyle. With sleek stores, meticulously curated products, and an Instagram aesthetic that screams exclusivity, Erewhon has created a place where shopping feels like an event. Even the grocer’s kraft paper tote bags have achieved cult status, becoming so coveted they’re resold on eBay and inspiring chic, eco-friendly reusable versions—reminiscent of Trader Joe’s reusable mini tote bags, which have gained similar notoriety for their practicality and collectible charm.

Surprisingly, Erewhon’s revenue per square foot achieves four times the amount of the grocery industry average. People are buying so much more than groceries. They’re buying into a story, a vibe, a community. Across the pond, the Delli app channels a similar energy, connecting people with boutique food makers and artisan brands. These platforms blur the line between food and fashion—turning dinner into a deliberate act of self-expression.

When fashion and food melt together

Luxury brands have noticed this cultural shift and are leaning into it. Louis Vuitton’s chocolate boutiques in Paris, Shanghai, and Singapore have made chocolate as desirable as their iconic handbags. Collaborations like Michael Kors x BAsDBAN or Miss Dior x Grid Coffee infuse culinary moments with high-fashion flair. Loewe’s heirloom tomato bag—a quirky and coveted accessory—proves that even vegetables can become part of a style statement.

And then let’s talk about the artistry. French floral designer @glenn.arvor adds fresh produce to his stunning arrangements, creating pieces that feel alive, organic, and earthy. New Zealand’s Amy Yip turns cakes into sculptures that look more at home in a gallery than a dessert table. Meanwhile, Japan’s @ika_miniature takes “tiny food” to new heights, crafting intricate replicas that make you pause and marvel. These playful trends remind us that food can move, surprise, and deeply connect us.

Why food matters more than ever

This obsession with food offers valuable extras to aesthetics and indulgence. It creates a connection. Food has become a way to ground ourselves in a volatile world. Whether you buy yourselves a $20 Erewhon smoothie or a homemade tomato salad, something feels comforting about the shared rituals of eating, celebrating, and creating.

This also happens with the recent rise of vegetable-inspired fragrances (tomato leaf, anyone?), which echo a similar longing for natural, nostalgic, and unexpected pleasures. Food and fragrance are merging, breaking boundaries to offer fresh ways to share our stories and connect. As food evolves into art and identity, what you put on your plate may rival what you put in your closet or on your wrist. The meals we share and the treats we post are delicious—and a way to define ourselves! Let us know about your favorite snack or meal to share with friends. Comment below! 

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Cue the evolution of quiet luxury

Who could have predicted this bold shift? The signs for brown’s meteoric rise were there if you were watching. From paint companies’ palettes to LA-based interior designer Kelly Wearstler’s bronze wonderland Instagram, the glamification of brown signaled the next phase of quiet luxury. Pantone’s Mocha Mousse offers the second food-themed color of the year in a row — and the first time since revealing a color of the year 25 years ago that a shade of brown was chosen. Media outlets have compared the color to natural elements and “little treat culture.” Pantone says the color intends to represent the zeitgeist, playing on a “desire for comfort” and a “growing movement to align ourselves with the natural world.” Read on for ways to envelop ourselves in this cozy, welcoming color, from home to apparel!

Brown shades at home

Paint offers one of the easiest ways to embrace this new neutral. In April, Little Greene launched a range of brown hues, including a decadent chocolate called Ganache. The capsule, inspired by treats like madeleines and affogato, draws from the walls, woodwork, and furniture of historic UK properties. Simultaneously, Farrow & Ball began showing a palette dominated by various browns, including Broccoli Brown and Cardamom. In October, Benjamin Moore revealed Cinnamon Slate as their 2025 Color of the Year, emphasizing balance, reassurance, and restoration at home. Following Pantone’s announcement, BEHR Paint responded with a playful TikTok: “Mocha mousse, meet cocoa nutmeg.”

Color – an international language

Sabrina Carpenter’s song of the summer Espresso summed things up even better than the now sold-out Norma Kamali swimsuit she wears in the video. Bella Hadid’s sheer Saint Laurent gown at Cannes came in café au lait, while at Vogue’s Wimbledon party, model Alva Claire arrived in a brown Ralph Lauren tank dress. Ryan Gosling has long been a fan of tobacco tailoring. Anti-tech, from paint choices to catwalks, brown can be seen as the color du jour. Brands like Bottega Veneta, Miu Miu, JW Anderson, and Chloé embraced some variation, inspiring a 1,000% increase in searches for chocolate brown on the shopping platform LTK this past November. Pantone will take Mocha Mousse on a celebratory international tour, stopping in London, New York, Shanghai, and Mumbai. Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute, Laurie Pressman, says, “It’s emblematic of a snapshot in time, and it’s giving people what they feel they need — that color can hope to answer,” Pressman said. “It’s us taking the temperature: What’s taking place in the world around us, and how does that get expressed into the language of color?”

Versatile for beauty & hair

According to Pantone, this soft brown suits various skin tones across various undertones and is a perfect foil for packaging. Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse is a versatile shade, blending seamlessly with other colors and serving as an ideal base for metallic gloss finishes. Juvia’s Place, an inclusive beauty brand, recently debuted The Coffee Shop Collection, with a glam brown eyeshadow palette and flattering lip glosses and liners. The day the Pantone announcement was made, many were inspired to take the rich hair color route!

Mocha mousse merch

Pantone’s Instagram promotes the new shade while adding momentum to products, including Limited Edition Mugs, Cortado, and Espresso Cups. While Pantone can’t copyright “light brown,” they have partnered with companies like Motorola and makeup subscription service Ipsy to create products in color. Speaking of, if you search Arket, “brown” reaps plenty of decadent apparel options! You can also check out British brand Tove’s cult Joni bodysuit and cinnamon tanks.

Symrise has been following the food-color connection, and according to those in the know, brown will continue to be a warm-weather hit. In the comments below, let us know your favorite way to indulge in Mocha Mousse!

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Haircare is entering an exciting new chapter. Gone are the days when we cared about keeping our hair clean or styled only. Today, exciting innovations elevate every step of your routine. Today’s products go beyond the basics, offering protection from the sun, fighting humidity, enhancing natural textures, and supporting sustainability.

From multitasking solutions that save time to climate adaptive tools that tackle frizz in any weather. Haircare is becoming more innovative, sleeker, and efficient. Luxurious finishing mists, soft crunch free curls, and frizz free locks mark the start only.

This new wave of haircare brings breakthroughs in textured hair, the rise of hair perfumes, and solutions designed to meet modern challenges. It offers a perfect blend of science, sustainability, and style, redefining what we can incorporate into our everyday routine. Read on to learn more! 

Innovation at every strand

Haircare is experiencing a profound transformation, driven by consumer demand for more innovative, multifunctional products that adapt to modern routines. This shift reflects a more profound cultural moment where beauty meets purpose, and form blends seamlessly with function. From climate adaptive styling sprays to textured hair mousses that deliver crunch free hold, the future of haircare looks bold, intelligent, and user focused.

The heart of this movement forms a demand for efficiency without compromise. According to a 2024 survey by The Benchmarking Company, 51% of women prioritize hair health in styling products, 46% seek options that enhance natural curls, and 57% want UV protection built into their routines. These numbers underscore a rising expectation: Every product should do more. Whether this relates to leave-in stylers fortified with keratin or next-gen mousses that hydrate as they volumize. Multitasking haircare has become a luxury for everyone, a true baseline.

Haircare meets climate reality.

In an era of rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns, haircare is evolving to combat environmental challenges. Humidity hacks have left the niche and become essential. Brands like Ouidad are setting benchmarks with their Heat and Humidity Gel, while tools like Shark’s dual-ionic stylers use advanced technology to eliminate frizz and protect hair health.

Sustainability, too, has become a must. Consumers increasingly demand products that align with their environmental values. Innovations like Faba TONIQ, a curl holding ingredient derived from hummus production, show how brands can merge efficacy with eco-consciousness. The future of haircare caters to the individual, and beyond that, it’s addressing the planet, one strand at a time.

The textured hair renaissance

Textured haircare is having a moment, and one long overdue. Products designed for curls and coils have transitioned from niche markets and become significant growth drivers across the board. Sleep friendly styling sprays and heatless curl kits dominate conversations, with Gen Z at the forefront of this shift. According to The Harris Poll, 50% of Gen Z consumers shower at night. This shift has created a demand for overnight stylers like Curlsmith’s damp-hair formulas, which reduce tangles while enhancing curl definition.

The resurgence of hair mousse reflects this textured hair renaissance with a modern twist. Gone are the days of crunchy, stiff finishes. Today’s formulas are designed for soft, natural volume, aligning with the broader “lazy beauty” ethos. The textured haircare boom means you are expressing inclusivity and self-expression.

Scent as a haircare signature

Hair perfume is emerging as the latest frontier in beauty, transforming everyday routines into sensory rituals. With a 22% year-over-year increase in Google searches for hair mists, this category is rapidly gaining traction. Brands like Sachajuan and Maison Francis Kurkdjian are leading the trend with hair scenting products that provide benefits like moisture and shine. While still a luxury at $85, Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s scented hair mist offers a more budget friendly option than the $335 price tag of Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum. Meanwhile, no wash solutions like Round Lab’s Pine Calming Cica cater to those embracing less frequent shampooing. These innovations speak to a broader cultural shift: haircare must offer function and enhance the everyday.

The haircare horizon

Next-gen haircare exemplifies innovation with purpose, offering climate smart multitaskers, textured hair solutions, and scent enhancing stylers. This evolving category goes beyond solving hair concerns to anticipate needs, elevate routines, and reflect modern values. Symrise has long been at the intersection of science, sustainability, and self-expression, using its expertise in haircare to shape a stylish and forward-thinking future. Have you tried any of the above haircare products or practices? Comment below!

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A delicious shift is happening in beauty and fashion. Food-inspired products are taking over, captivating Gen-Z with scents, colors, and textures that feel as tasty as they look. Rhode Skin, Hailey Bieber’s beauty brand, sparked this wave with its Krispy Kreme strawberry-flavored lip treatment, which went viral and sold out almost instantly. Certainly, the look and scent that drew fans in. More importantly — it offers the thrill of holding an iconic treat in a surprising form. Beauty and fashion brands are weaving food-inspired elements into products that make everyday routines feel as indulgent as fun.

Beauty and food have long shared a playful link, and now brands are drawing on nostalgic flavors and favorite snacks to create visually and emotionally resonant, sensory-driven products. And with TikTok fueling the trend, we can now find these food-inspired looks everywhere, turning routines into experiences that feel almost good enough to eat. Read on to learn more!

Satisfying style cravings: food meets beauty and fashion

The new wave of food-inspired beauty looks fresh, bold, and designed for a digital audience. In 2024, the “strawberry girl” look—flushed cheeks and glossy lips—dominated social media. Meanwhile, “glazed doughnut” nails, mimicking the smooth, shiny surface of a freshly glazed treat, became a staple. Even hair trends followed suit, with shades like “cinnamon cookie butter” adding warm caramel and copper tones to create a soft, dessert-inspired glow.

These trends echo millennial nostalgia, reminiscent of early 2000s favorites like fruit-flavored Lip Smackers and classic Bath & Body Works or Victoria’s Secret body sprays, yet feel refreshed in the Gen-Z era. Thanks to TikTok’s #FoodTok, which attracts billions of views, food-inspired beauty looks have become viral sensations, drawing audiences who crave the familiar comfort and fun that these styles bring to self-expression

Marketing Gold: Food-Infused Collaborations

Brands are jumping into this culinary craze, creating limited-edition releases that Gen-Z eagerly adopts. Milk Makeup’s grape-colored Cooling Water Jelly Tint went viral on TikTok and sold out twice, thanks to its jelly-like texture and refreshing feel. Rhode Skin’s Krispy Kreme lip treatment boosted engagement by over 700%, proving how much food-inspired products resonate with young consumers. Lanolips joined the trend with a “glazed doughnut” flavor for its popular balm, quickly becoming a best-seller.

Fashion brands are also embracing the foodie influence. E.l.f. Cosmetics partnered with Chipotle to launch a makeup palette inspired by burrito ingredients like guacamole and salsa. Last year, they collaborated with Liquid Death to create a rock-inspired beauty line, blending creativity, humor, and food culture in a fresh and authentic way. Recently, Kate Spade joined M&M’s for a whimsical collaboration, adding a sweet, colorful twist to accessories. 

Snackable Style: How Food Aesthetics Are Thriving on TikTok

TikTok’s rapid-fire platform has turned food-inspired beauty trends into cultural moments. From “strawberry girl” blush to “blueberry milk” nails, each trend taps into a universal love for comfort and indulgence, transforming beauty routines into a sensory treat. Products like Sweet Tooth by Sabrina Carpenter Eau de Parfum in “Cherry Baby” and Lanolips’ flavored balms have embraced this approach, with food-inspired scents and flavors becoming significant parts of their business.

Food-inspired trends have arrived to stay. Gen-Z’s love for food culture and viral creativity gives beauty and fashion brands fresh ways to connect. By infusing products with the comforting essence of favorite snacks, brands create experiences beyond function. From jelly-textured cheek tints to Krispy Kreme lip balms and flavor-inspired makeup palettes, today’s products delight in every sense. For Gen-Z, a touch of sweetness truly elevates everything.

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Men and young men embrace new options

This International Men’s Day, let’s celebrate the strides toward mental well-being, health, and equality by recognizing the powerful shift in men’s self-care. Once limited by societal stereotypes, men today embrace skincare, grooming, and self-care routines to boost mental health and overall well-being. With Gen Z challenging outdated norms, the beauty and self-care industries have taken notice, designing products that align with men’s needs and preferences. This move toward inclusivity supports mental health and self-esteem for men, encouraging a balanced approach to gender equality. Additionally, as global brands innovate with sustainability and natural ingredients, men get empowered to make mindful choices for their health and the planet.

Men also are now searching for skincare products that truly meet their needs. This might mean a refreshing face wash to jumpstart the day, a hydrating moisturizer for a healthy glow, or a powerful sunscreen to guard against environmental stressors. Social media is buzzing with men sharing their skincare stories, product tips, and self-care routines. These posts build community and inspire others to begin their journeys.

The numbers say it all: the global men’s skincare and beauty market is expected to grow by 3% CAGR (6% in current terms) from 2023 to 2028. Ready to dive into the latest trends and innovations redefining men’s skincare? Keep reading!

Prioritizing concerns

According to research firm Euromonitor, blackheads, wrinkles, and blemish/acne-prone are leading skin concerns across male generations globally. Skin sensitivity has also become a top concern, climbing slightly among Gen X and Baby Boomers compared to a year prior. Aligning with aging concerns, in 2023, over 40% of male consumers reported using day/night-specific cream, moisturizer, or lotion more than any other product. French-rooted La Roche-Posay highlights critical features in their Toleriane (sensitive skin) lines for specialty care and the benefits of thermal spring water. In addition to promoting smooth skin, the water combines minerals and antioxidants, such as selenium. This blend supports mild formulas for eczema, dryness, and acne-prone skin conditions.

#SoftMasculinity

WGSN, the global trend authority, is spotlighting #SoftMasculinity. Male grooming is booming as men expand their routines beyond basics like moisturizer and beard care. Now, they’re branching into products like concealer, nail varnish, and “feel-good” beauty items.

Google Trends reveals a striking surge in interest. Searches for “men’s beauty” jumped by 37 percentage points, and “men’s skincare” spiked by 61 points. Surprisingly, “men’s beauty advent calendar” has also become a top search on both Google and Amazon, hinting at a festive focus on self-care.

The trend of “Bathscaping” is also taking off. UK-based brand Baz & Co. is leading the way with skin-loving soaps, shower gels, body lotions, and oils—all designed to elevate self-care and relaxation.

Celebrity and social media led

Have you ever splurged on skin care because of TikTok trends or the buzz around celebrity brands? According to the Retail Intelligence Platform EDITED, younger men get especially drawn in by “Get Ready With Me” videos and the worldwide influence of social media. An impressive 89% of hashtag viewers are 18-24 years old. Now, independent brands are leading the way—from BL+’s potent serums to Lumin‘s custom grooming kits—appealing to those with a keen eye for physical health.

Australian brand Patricks has elevated skincare, displaying products alongside luxury items like sneakers and watches, making self-care aspirational. Pharrell Williams’ Humanrace has even partnered with Adidas, connecting skincare to the streetwear scene. His three-step routine—featuring the Rice Powder Cleanser, Lotus Enzyme Exfoliator, and Humidifying Cream—takes only three minutes morning and night. It sets the stage for glowing, healthy skin.

The appeal of celebrity-backed skincare is rising. Euromonitor found that 6% of male consumers now seek celeb-endorsed skincare, up by 3% since 2022. Recent star-studded launches include Domaine by Brad Pitt, Loved01 from John Legend, and Papatui by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, featuring clean-ingredient formulas for everything from skincare to tattoo care. Idris Elba’s S’able Labs and Harry Styles’  Pleasing, with playful beauty and nail products, continue to capture the Gen Z spotlight.

Symrise is talking directly to the fellas on Instagram, spotlighting a treasure trove of cutting-edge ingredients powering the future of skincare. From Supervisome EPH, which protects against daily stressors and pollution, to Hydroviton^® Insta, locking in moisture for that smooth finish, and Neo Heliopan^® UV filters, shielding skin from intense UV rays—these innovations are shaping the way forward. Dive into more about these ingredients at Symselect.com. Which ingredients would you consider your go-to for targeted skincare needs? Whether you go for condition-focused solutions, science-backed formulations, inclusive marketing, or routines tailored to each generation, comment below on your picks!

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A sweet history

Have you ever wondered how fruit drying came about? Humans have used this ancient technique for centuries. It removes most of the water from fruit, concentrating its natural sugars. This results in a sweeter, more intense flavor. Dried fruits are nutrient-dense and a good source of bioactive/phytochemicals. Some of the earliest evidence of dried fruit comes from Mesopotamia, from 2000-1700 B.C. The Bible already mentions dried figs and raisins.

Fast forward to today, and the global Dry Fruit Market is thriving. Valued at USD 10.93 billion in 2023. It is projected to grow to USD 16.26 billion by 2030, with an impressive 5.8% CAGR. Dried fruits such as dates, grapes, prunes, and apricots remain essential to healthy snacking. Whether through traditional sun drying or modern dehydrators, they provide a rich source of antioxidants and fiber. Regions that lead in the Dried Fruit Market include North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, the Middle East, and Africa.

The demand for dried fruit has also surged, with more accessible access to fresh fruit. While a fresh apricot lasts about a week, a dried apricot can stay flavorful for up to a year. Explore the world of dried fruit, its health benefits, snacking innovations, and emerging trends!

Innovation & mindful snacking

Symrise attended the recent Winter Fancy Food Show, highlighting the innovative Kankitsu Labo Dry Candied Japanese Citrus Peel, featuring Yuzu, Amanatsu, Iyokan, Kawachi Bankan, and Blood Orange from Setouchi. Similarly, at the health-focused Expo West trade show, Brother International introduced its new product: dried Fuji Apples Infused Fruit Crisps! Soaked with raspberry, blueberry, or strawberry juice, they got freeze-dried for a crispy and fruity flavor combination. Redefining snacking, each bag offers two cups of fresh fruit, more than the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines advise consuming daily. An entire bag contains just 90 calories. The Freeze-Dried Infused Fruit Crisps come peanut-free, tree-nut-free, soy-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, Kosher, and non-GMO. Current evidence suggests that the effects of dried fruits on gut microbiome, cardiometabolic disease risk, bone health, and diet quality are promising!

Sun-Maid recently unveiled Farmstand Reserve, a grown-up snack line. It features Dried Mixed Berries (cranberries, Bing cherries, and blueberries), Sea Salt Chocolate Coated Banana Chips, Dried Whole Cranberries, and Sea Salt Cocoa Caramel Dusted Raisins. Dr. Susan Albers, a leading expert on mindful eating, has partnered with Sun-Maid to highlight the importance of “mindful snacking.” These snacks present the perfect portable option. They’re compact enough to fit in a work tote, gym bag, or diaper bag without taking up much space. Make sure to check out their Dried California Zante Currants, too!

At the World Innovation Awards 2024, Soul Fruit unveiled their crunchy freeze-dried fruit crisps, each bag providing one of your five daily servings of fruit. The brand’s fruitrition page fully explains the attributed health benefits of Dragon fruit, Jackfruit, and Keo Mango, from regulating blood pressure to enhancing memory and boosting mood. Also, check out Zingy Zoo’s Freeze-Dried Fig Slices, perfect for snacking, decorating, or adding to smoothies!

Trending bites: when TikTok tastes hit retail

The transition of TikTok trends into retail products shows social media’s powerful impact on consumer behavior. Products that go viral on TikTok often experience a spike in demand, pushing manufacturers and retailers to act quickly. Dried fruit has experienced that, too. A great example is the viral TikTok Freeze-Dried Fruit “Cereal” clip that has captured attention. 

Whether you enjoy dried fruits as a snack, in recipes, or as part of a festive spread, they bring versatility and flavor to any occasion.How do you incorporate dried fruits into your routine? Share your favorite ideas and tips below!

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