HAIRFORSENSE™ Technology: A new generation of bio-based, microplastic-free hairstyling performance

For decades, hairstyling performance has relied on fossil-derived synthetic polymers to deliver hold, texture and control. While skincare and hair care have undergone significant sustainability-driven innovation, hairstyling has remained largely unchanged and is still dependent on petrochemical film formers that persist in the environment and increasingly fall under microplastic scrutiny.

HAIRFORSENSE™ Technology marks a fundamental shift in how hairstyling performance can be achieved. Developed by CH-Bioforce, HAIRFORSENSE is a patent-pending, bio-based polymer system engineered to replace conventional fossil-based styling polymers while maintaining the professional performance standards expected in modern haircare formulations.

 

Bridging performance and bio-based design

Replacing synthetic styling polymers is not simply a sustainability challenge, it is a performance challenge. Styling polymers must deliver reliable hold, flexibility, curl definition, frizz control and a pleasing sensory experience, all while allowing natural movement and restyling.

HAIRFORSENSE has been designed from the ground up to meet these functional demands. Rather than relying on rigid, petrochemical-based film formers, the technology uses biopolymers derived from renewable biomass side streams. This approach allows hair to be shaped and controlled without stiffness, flaking or buildup.

The result is styling performance that looks and feels natural, because it moves with the hair, not restricting it. Styling it, not holding it back.

 

 

HAIRFORSENSE – How does it work?

HAIRFORSENSE is not a single ingredient, but a carefully engineered polymer system. The innovation lies in how bio-based polymers interact with each other and with the hair fibre.

Conventional hairstyling polymers are based on petrochemical acrylic and vinyl materials, which form continuous, glue-like films that bond hair fibers together. Unlike the traditional polymers, that create dense inter-fiber connections which often lead to stiffness, flaking and potential build-up over time, HAIRFORSENSE™ relies on a structuring mechanism that takes a fundamentally different approach by forming discrete crystalline-like biopolymer particles that deposit both on the hair surface and around the hair shaft.

These biopolymer particles create a lightweight, discontinuous network that supports styling performance through physical structuring rather than adhesive film formation.

This particular architecture enables flexible hold, natural movement and breathable styling, while minimising stickiness and residue.

This flexible film:

• Provides hold and shape memory
  
• Enhances curl grouping and definition
  
• Smooths the hair to help reduce visible frizz
  
• Maintains softness, flexibility, and combability
  
• Allows reshaping and restyling without product breakdown

Unlike conventional synthetic polymers, the film does not harden or crack as hair moves. This allows it to deliver long-lasting control with a soft, touchable finish.

 

 

Designed for modern hairstyling formulations

HAIRFORSENSE has been developed to integrate seamlessly into existing formulation strategies. It can function as a drop-in alternative to microplastics-derived styling polymers, enabling brands to update styling products without radical reformulation.

The technology is compatible with a wide range of hairstyling formats, including:

• Creams and lotions
  
• Gels and styling fluids
  
• Sprays
  
• Curl definition and texture-enhancing products

This flexibility allows formulators to apply HAIRFORSENSE across both professional and consumer styling portfolios.

 

Moving beyond fossil-based styling polymers

Hairstyling remains one of the beauty industry’s largest users of fossil-derived polymers, many of which are persistent in the environment and increasingly associated with microplastic concerns.

HAIRFORSENSE addresses this challenge by offering a bio-based alternative designed without microplastics-based styling polymers. The polymer system is derived from renewable biomass side streams, supporting more responsible raw material use and circular economy principles.

By enabling microplastic-aware formulation strategies and aligning with evolving regulatory expectations, HAIRFORSENSE helps brands future-proof hairstyling portfolios while maintaining high performance.

 

 

Benefits for brands, formulators, and end users

For brands and formulators

• Alternative to conventional fossil-based styling polymers
  
• Supports microplastic-free formulation strategies
  
• Enables future-ready regulatory positioning
  
• Strong sustainability storytelling based on upcycled biomass
  
• Compatible with modern professional performance standards

For end users

• Flexible, natural-looking hold
  
• Defined curls and reduced frizz
  
• Soft, touchable hair feel
  
• Improved manageability and combability
  
• No stiffness, stickiness, or heavy buildup

 

 

A new standard for hairstyling performance

HAIRFORSENSE represents a new category of hairstyling technology. One that proves bio-based design and high performance are not mutually exclusive.

Developed by CH-Bioforce using advanced biomass fractionation expertise, HAIRFORSENSE brings hairstyling into the next era: performance-driven, regulation-aware and designed without reliance on fossil-based polymers.

 

Learn more

The HAIRFORSENSE Technology will be presented in more detail at In-cosmetics Global on April 14th-16th in Paris, France, where CH-Bioforce will showcase performance results, formulation concepts and application possibilities.

To learn more about HAIRFORSENSE or discuss formulation opportunities, please contact the CH-Bioforce team.