Eastman, a global specialty materials leader, and Kolmar Korea, a top-tier cosmetics original development manufacturer, have signed an MoU to advance biodegradable, high-performance personal care solutions. The partnership aims to help brands meet sustainability goals while maintaining product innovation. 

The collaboration will center on expanding access to Eastman’s Esmeri technology, including Esmeri CC1N10, an advanced cellulose ester micropowder for color cosmetics. With over a century of expertise in cellulose esters, Eastman’s latest innovation is readily biodegradable under OECD 301B guidelines and meets EU biodegradation regulations for synthetic polymer microparticles. 

“Esmeri is a key solution to challenges that brands face today in meeting regulatory requirements and rising consumer demands for innovative products that continue to deliver exceptional performance,” said Travis Smith, executive vice president at Eastman.  

“Kolmar’s end-to-end manufacturing capabilities and global reach will be integral in scaling access to Esmeri and other personal care innovations. Together, we are bringing sustainable, high-quality solutions to the industry.” 

The partnership may extend across Eastman’s broader personal care portfolio, covering cosmetics, fragrance, and skin, sun, and hair care applications, with a focus on boosting performance while meeting evolving consumer and regulatory expectations. 

Kolmar’s sustainable manufacturing focus and expertise in human-centered design make it an ideal partner to scale Eastman’s technology globally. 

“Through our products and brands, we continue to offer differentiated beauty solutions that integrate cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices, which is what makes Esmeri a great fit for our portfolio,” said Han Sang-keun, vice president and chief technology officer, Kolmar Holdings.  

“We are excited to collaborate with Eastman to combine their unique technology with our global consumer insights and deep expertise in K-beauty to accelerate sustainable growth for both companies.”