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...

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, we spotlight Kobo's KLP-336-EU Mineral SPF Lip & Blush Butter Balm: a multifunctional formula designed to deliver color, comfort, and mineral sun protection in one smooth-glide balm. Elsie is joined by first-time co-host Spencer Schmidt andreturning guest Urmi Dhamnasker from Kobo UK to explore the formulation goals, ingredient selection, and technic...

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 col...

In this special end-of-year episode, we’re closing out 2025 by celebrating a major milestone: Kobo’s EcoVadis Gold Sustainability Rating, placing the company among the top 2% of organizations globally. Gabby is joined by Luna Fascina, CSR & Technical ServiceManager at Kobo, to unpack what corporate social responsibility really means, why EcoVadis is such a critical benchmark, and how Kobo’s su...

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 expres...

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, Gabby dives into the colorful world of eye makeup, from lashes to lids and brows. She’s joined by Maria Alvarez, Chemist from Kobo’s European Applications Lab, who breaks down the key ingredients and formulation strategies that bring eye products to life. From long-wear performance powered by film formers to the volumizing magic of silica and fibers, this ep...

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,...

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo , Gabby dives into one of the most iconic makeup categories—lipsticks—and explores the science behind achieving color, texture, and innovation. From high-pigment classic sticks to ultra-glossy vinyl finishes, she’s joined by Carl Orr, veteran formulator and consultant at Kobo Products, who shares deep insights into what it takes to create standout lip product...

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),...

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo , Gabby divesinto a topic that's reshaping the sun care conversation— diversity and inclusion in SPF formulation . From tinted sunscreens to the persistent challenges of white cast, cosmetic scientists are being called to rethink how protection looks and feels on every skin tone. Joining the discussion is Cheres Chambers, Kobo’s SalesManager for North America...

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 importan...

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo , Gabby continues the deep dive into skincare actives—this time focusing on a hydration hero: hyaluronic acids. While widely known for their ability to keep skin moisturized, not all hyaluronic acids are created equal. With various types and specifications, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. To help us navigate this, Gabby is joined by Bruce from Foc...

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 Che...

In this episode of No Filter with Kobo, Gabby and Elsie wrap up their three-part series on the global trends shaping the beauty and cosmetics market for 2025. The final two trends that are sure to influence the market are ‘Sensorial Beauty’ and ‘One Ingredient Wonder’.  For special guests, we have Andrea Laserna, Kobo’s Marketing Coordinator, Márcio Gomes, App Lab Chemist from Kobo Brazil, and Tha...

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...

In this episode, we kick off a three-part series diving into Kobo’s global trends shaping the beauty and cosmetics industry for 2025! Over the course of the series, we’ll dive into six key trends, and in this first episode, we focus on two: ‘Your Skin, Your Way’ and ‘Sun Goes 360.’ To break down each trend, we’re joined by special guests, including Erin McGovern from Kobo’s Marketing Department, w...

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 requireme...

Does "natural" mean sustainable? Is cruelty-free the same as vegan? Join us as we debunk these myths and clarify the true meanings of labels you find on your cosmetic products. In part two of our regulatory updates mini-series, we discuss cruelty-free, vegan, and natural claims with Kobo experts. Learn about the sourcing of sustainable palm oil, leading certifiers of cruelty-free products, and so...

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...

The hair care cosmetic market includes any product that is designed to clean, treat, or condition the hair. In part two of our series on diversity in skin and hair care, we will discuss our own experiences with various products in this category, hair care routines, and the differences we’ve found worldwide in both hair types and hair characteristics. Kobo experts will also give their takes on majo...

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, combin...

Introducing our two-part series celebrating diversity in skin and hair care across shades shades, characteristics, and global population needs. In the first installment, we are joined by special guest Dr. Camille A. Martin, PhD., from Seaspire Skincare. Together, we dive deep into some common skin conditions, including skin cancer, vitiligo, and hyperpigmentation, and Dr. Martin shares tips on how...

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...

Formulating tinted sunscreens can be a time-consuming and complicated task, especially if your goal is to create an inclusive palette. Tune in for a conversation with one of Kobo’s Application Lab Specialists from Brazil on how to make a natural tinted sunscreen stick – and learn a bit about our new product series: KOBOTINT. This episode contains time-saving ingredients and information to help you...

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, technol...