Editor's note: Skin glow and radiance products are experiencing significant growth, driven by demand for luminous, healthy-looking skin. Here, we examine trends, formulating strategies and emerging innovations shaping this projected $714 m sector. Experts Jule Lexa Völzke, Ph.D., of CLR Berlin, Pascal Yvon, of Sharon Personal Care and Oriane Le Roux, of Solabia Group, weigh in on this trend.
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Editor's note: Skin glow and radiance products are experiencing significant growth, driven by demand for luminous, healthy-looking skin. Here, we examine trends, formulating strategies and emerging innovations shaping this projected $714 m sector. Experts Jule Lexa Völzke, Ph.D., of CLR Berlin, Pascal Yvon, of Sharon Personal Care and Oriane Le Roux, of Solabia Group, weigh in on this trend.
The skin radiance and luminosity market represents one of the most dynamic segments within the global cosmetics and personal care industry. A current market analysis reveals significant consumer engagement with radiance-focused products, with "glow serums" reaching peak search volumes of 100% in January 2025, per Google Trends.1 Research from additional market intelligence firms reveals that glow has emerged as a top engagement keyword, generating 7.6× higher engagement volume compared with traditional beauty descriptors.2
Future Market Insights projects the global body luminizer market will reach $714 million by 2035, climbing at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2025.3 This includes products that enhance skin texture, making it shiny and radiant in appearance. Available as lotions, creams, oils, sprays or gels, many incorporate light-reflecting particles like mica or pearls to impart a slight shimmer. Per the source, luminizers also work well with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which hydrates and improves skin health, boosting natural glow.
Formulating Strategies to Achieve Glowing Skin
Product developers employ multiple interconnected strategies to enhance skin's natural luminosity and radiance, targeting various physiological mechanisms that contribute to a healthy, glowing complexion. Immediate optical enhancement is achieved through light-reflecting particles such as micronized mica and titanium dioxide, which scatter light uniformly across the skin surface to create instant luminosity.
Simultaneously, exfoliation technologies using alpha and beta hydroxy acids, along with enzymatic systems, remove dead skin cells and promote cellular turnover to reveal fresher, more light-reflective skin underneath. Film-formers additionally create continuous, cohesive films that deliver optical smoothing benefits to skin, evenly distributing light.
Hydrating systems are another critical component, employing ingredients like hyaluronic acid in various molecular weights, ceramides and sophisticated delivery mechanisms to optimize skin moisture levels and create a plump, dewy appearance associated with healthy radiance.
Antioxidant complexes including vitamin C derivatives, vitamin E and botanical extracts protect against oxidative stress and damage, preventing dullness and compromised skin clarity. Melanin regulation through tyrosinase inhibitors and pigmentation modulators also creates more even skin tone, which appears inherently more radiant and luminous.
Structural enhancement through collagen-supporting ingredients such as retinoids, peptides and growth factors improve skin firmness and density, improving light reflection properties that contribute to overall radiance. Additionally, actives to promote micro-circulation boost the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to skin cells, generating a natural glow from within.
Finally, many of these approaches are optimized through advanced delivery systems including nanotechnology, liposomal encapsulation and penetration enhancers to ensure that active ingredients reach their target sites effectively for maximum radiance-boosting efficacy.
Emerging Research in Skin Radiance
Recent research and patent publications demonstrate new strategies and innovations targeting sophisticated mechanisms in pursuit of enhanced skin radiance and luminosity.
Lipofuscin focus – preventing skin dullness: A patent from The Estée Lauder Cos. (US 12,186,417 B2) introduces an anti-aging composition combining decarboxylated oligopeptides with Pyracantha extract. This synergistic duo can prevent or significantly slow lipofuscin generation and accumulation, preventing dullness and skin discoloration, per the patent.4
Contractile film formation: L'Oreal's patent US 12,186,417 B2 claims methods and compositions that "increase the radiance, luminosity and/or glow of the skin” by “instantaneously” reducing the appearance of wrinkles, eye bags, pores and skin imperfections such as scarring, dark spots (and uneven skin tone), dark circles and roughness. The invention achieves such through a combination of volatile hydrocarbon oil, mineral thickening agents, silicone elastomers and hydrophobic film-forming polymers. Together, they create an adhesive, contractile film for immediate tightening effects on the skin surface with optical-smoothing benefits.5
Ergothioneine for antioxidant defense, cellular energy: US Patent 2024/0382460 A1, filed by Nanjing Nutrabuilding Bio Tech Co., Ltd., discloses topical formulas containing ergothioneine – or analogs or derivatives thereof – that improve skin's radiance, texture and luminosity. Per the patent, the naturally occurring, sulfur-containing amino acid is found mainly in mushrooms and is reported to act through multiple biological pathways: mitochondrial protection, antioxidant activity and microbiome optimization. Interestingly, its ability to protect against UV-induced mtDNA deletion maintains cellular energy levels, ensuring skin’s ability to maintain optimal function and appearance.6
Indole to improve microrelief, boost cellular renewal: Another L’Oréal patent, WO 2025/120089 A1, cites "loss of radiance" and “uneven skin tone” as key signs of aging addressed by indole and its derivatives. Additional concerns targeted include: alterations in microrelief, skin elasticity issues, epidermal thinning and compromised barrier functioning. The patent demonstrates that indole compounds stimulate cell proliferation and epidermal renewal.7
Olivine + vitamin C cell energizer: Patent WO2023057266A1, from Unilever, describes a “topical composition for providing energizing glow on skin.” The innovation combines mineral-derived olivine extract with vitamin C to create a synergistic effect that significantly boosts adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels. According to the inventors, sodium ascorbyl phosphate was found to interact synergistically with olivine extract at low concentrations to enhance ATP levels.8
Standardizing skin glow assessments: In addition to innovations that improve skin radiance, recent research has focused on methods to measure this quality in skin that could, in turn, validate skin glow-related claims. Roessle and Kerscher, for example, established age-stratified reference ranges for objective skin glow metrics in 300 women to help standardize glow/radiance readouts in trials. The approach included precise measurements of melanin index, erythema index and gloss diffuse scattering correction values.9
Ultrasound-energized skin structure boost: Finally, Pavicic, et al., describe how micro-focused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V) can target energy delivery to specific dermal depths to improve overall skin quality. Essentially, by stimulating the body’s natural wound healing response, the technique was shown to remodel collagen, regenerate elastin, optimize dermal thickness and enhance microcirculation. These effects correlate with parameters affecting skin glow – e.g., surface texture refinement, hydration enhancement, pore size reduction and pigmentation uniformity.10
Industry Experts Weigh In
To gain deeper perspective on the challenges and opportunities of products to enhance skin glow and radiance, we asked industry experts to weigh in. Following are their insights.
Skin Glow + Even Tone as a Gateway to Synergies
According to Jule Lexa Völzke, Ph.D., manager of product design and development, CLR Berlin, in the past, the perception of youthful-looking skin was strongly linked to the wrinkle reduction and the overall morphology and firmness of the skin. “Now, there is a strong focus on skin tone evenness, which potentially has an even greater effect on how youthful the skin is perceived to be,” she explains. For example, if the skin tone is even, it projects radiance and inner glow, acting as a natural soft-focus filter. All of these attributes have a strong appeal for consumers, per Völzke.
In terms of future potential, Völzke sees potential in solutions to even out skin tone. “[S]kin care products formulated with active ingredients that target skin evenness [serve] as a gateway to a powerful synergy between cosmetic care and color cosmetics,” she illustrates. “By supporting optimal skin health, these products create the ideal foundation for natural radiance and luminosity, which can then be elevated further through the use of color cosmetics.”
Technologies supporting this market direction include CutiGuard CLR (INCI: Betaine (and) Sucrose (and) Hydrolyzed Rhodophyceae Extract (and) Water (Aqua)), which according to Völzke, multiple studies have confirmed acts as a “versatile anti-aging active, with a particular focus on improving skin tone evenness and radiance.”
“In a pioneering ‘first impressions’ study — an industry first — it was demonstrated that a more even skin tone can significantly influence perception,” Völzke adds. “[W]ithin just three seconds, naive graders consistently favored the side of the face treated with the active ingredient.”
In a separate study, makeup artists from around the world assessed randomized facial images for radiance and evenness, and also indicated a strong preference for the side treated with CutiGuard CLR. “These studies, centered on subjective human perception, highlight radiance and glow as essential markers of youthful-looking skin,” Völzke concluded.
Pro-longevity, Algae, Retinol and Alternatives
Pro-longevity-focused skin care routines, healthy skin and natural/natural-like ingredients are key trends in today’s market for skin radiance-focused beauty, if you ask Pascal Yvon, general manager for the Americas at Sharon Personal Care. “There is a shift in the market from quick fixes to regimens that focus on long-term skin health and resilience,” he explains. “Ingredients such as algae extracts, peptides and retinoids or their alternatives have seen exponential growth due to their role in promoting skin longevity and reducing visible signs of aging.”
According to Yvon, new directions in this space will be led by social media, fueled in part by well-informed consumers, as well as a greater awareness of health and wellness from both aging baby boomers and younger generations.
Answering these emerging consumer demands are ingredients such as Pantrofina Baokiol (INCI: Dicaprylyl Ether (and) Bakuchiol (and) Adansonia Digitata (Baobab) Seed Oil) and Pantrofina Bakuclear (INCI: Butylene Glycol (and) Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside (and) Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate (and) Water (Aqua) (and) Bakuchiol (and) Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate). As Yvon explains, “[these] are powered by bakuchiol, a retinol alternative, but without its constraints and side effects.”
He adds that another ingredient, Pantrofina Klamath, derived from sweet water algae (INCI: Dextrin (and) Aphanizomenon Flos Aquae Extract) focuses on skin pro-longevity and “feeling well at every age.”
Detox, Cell Renewal and Biotech-driven Solutions
“Radiant, luminous skin remains a timeless beauty ideal, increasingly central to consumer skin care goals,” shares Oriane Le Roux, senior global product manager for Solabia Group. “Current market trends highlight a growing demand for products that restore glow lost due to stress, pollution, dehydration and fatigue.”
According to Le Roux, these factors disrupt light diffusion on the skin’s surface and compromise its barrier function, leading to a dull, uneven complexion.
“Today’s innovations focus on three key mechanisms: microbiome balance, natural detoxification and cell renewal,” she continues. “These approaches improve hydration, oxygenation and skin texture — essential for a healthy glow.”
Looking ahead, Le Roux sees the trend for glowing skin evolving toward more holistic, sustainable and biotech-driven solutions. “There is strong potential in actives that simultaneously support skin structure, metabolism and regeneration,” she explains. “Personalized skin care and ecological formulations will likely shape future product development.”
Per Le Roux, three standout technologies illustrate this shift. Ecoskin (INCI: Alpha-glucan Oligosaccharide (and) Polymnia Sonchifolia Root Juice (and) Maltodextrin (and) Lactobacillus) is a vegan prebiotic and probiotic complex that reportedly strengthens the skin barrier, rebalances the microbiota, and enhances radiance.
Another is Sealight (INCI: Water (Aqua (and) Codium Fragile Extract), a marine-derived active designed to boost microcirculation and detoxification – “especially around the eye contour, for a fresher, more luminous look,” Le Roux adds.
Lastly, NeoGlow (INCI: Water (Aqua) (and) Propanediol (and) Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Extract (and) Maltodextrin) is a botanical extract from organic kale that mimics retinol pathways, promoting cell renewal, hydration and smoother skin texture.
“The future of [skin] glow is bright — powered by science, nature and innovation,” Le Roux writes.
Conclusions
The skin glow and radiance market represents a convergence of consumer desire, scientific innovation and technological advancement that positions it as one of the most promising segments in the beauty industry. With "glow serums" achieving peak consumer interest and the market projected to reach substantial growth over the next decade, this sector demonstrates remarkable resilience and expansion potential.
References
1. Google Trends. (Accessed 2025, Sep 4). Glow face masks, glow body creams and glow serums interest comparison. Available at https://trends.google.com/trends/explore?q=glow%20face%20masks,glow%20body%20creams,glow%20serums
2. ShareThis. (2022, Oct 17). Beauty glow-up: Trends, products and brands having a moment. Available at https://sharethis.com/insights/2021/12/beauty-glow-up-trends-products-and-brands-having-a-moment/
3. Future Market Insights. (2025, Jan 10). Body luminizer market. Available at https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/body-luminizer-market
4. Google Patents. (Accessed 2025, Sep 4; published 2024, Sep 26). Cosmetic compositions containing decarboxylated oligopeptide and pyracantha extract and methods for treating lipofuscin. WO2024192747A1, assigned to ELC Management, LLC, The Esée Lauder Cos. Available at https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2024192747A1/en
5. Google Patents. (Accessed 2025, Sep 4; published 2025, Jan 7). Skin perfecting cosmetic compositions and methods of use. US Pat 12186417B2, assigned to L’Oréal. Available at https://patents.google.com/patent/US12186417B2/en
6. Google Patents. (Accessed 2025, Sep 4; published 2024, Nov 21). Compositions and methods for preventing or improving premature skin aging. US Pat 20240382460A1, assigned to Nanjing Nutrabuilding Bio Tech Co., Ltd. Available at https://patents.google.com/patent/US20240382460A1/en
7. Google Patents. (Accessed 2025, Sep 4; published 2025, Jun 12). Indole uses thereof in cosmetics. WO2025120089A1, assigned to L’Oréal. Available at https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2025120089A1/en
8. Google Patents. (Accessed 2025, Sep 4; published 2023, Apr 13). A topical composition for providing energizing glow on skin. WO2023057266A1, assigned to Unilever. Available at https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2023057266A1/en
9. Roessle, A. and Kerscher, M. (2025, Aug 23). Objectification of skin glow: In vivo evaluation of 300 women in relation to age. J Cosmet Dermatol. Available at https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocd.70373
10. Pavicic, T., Green, J.B, … Jackson, M.J., et al. (2025, Aug 23). Microfocused ultrasound with visualization in skin quality: A narrative review. J Cosmet Dermatol. Available at https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocd.70364
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