Innomost develops patented method to transform birch bark into cosmetics super ingredient in Kokkola

A Finnish startup, Innomost, believes that birch bark could be the next super ingredient for cosmetics. While utilizing birch bark is an age-old practice, the company has developed a patented industrial method to process it. Innomost transforms this industrial byproduct into a raw material that can replace oil-based products, and has appointed Tiina Bensky, a former executive at Lumenelle and L’Oreal, as its CEO.

Innomost currently produces 10 tons of birch bark-derived products, such as betulin and suberin, each year at its small pilot plant in Kokkola. The aim is to ramp up production to 300 tons annually by 2028. Bensky asserts that the time is ripe for growth, as the industry increasingly seeks green raw materials amidst shifting regulations and a growing interest in collaborating with small startups.

In the cosmetics sector, Innomost’s products are proving useful in exfoliating formulations and masks, with applications in toothpaste and mascara also being explored. Betulin is currently under testing in various makeup products, and birch bark could serve as a substitute for plastics found in dry shampoos. Bensky highlights that Innomost has no direct competitors, as other companies process birch bark manually, while they do so on an industrial scale.

Consumers are demanding healthier, eco-friendly solutions, particularly in Asia, and the cosmetics industry is eager to meet this demand. Current discussions with major cosmetics players are promising, indicating potential partnerships on the horizon. Overall, Bensky is optimistic about Innomost’s prospects, noting that Finland’s strengths lie in its water and forestry industries.