Cosmax, a cosmetics original development manufacturer (ODM), has developed an eco-friendly toner pad that biodegrades in two stages.
Cosmax said Tuesday that it has developed the "Flush-it Melting Pad," which breaks down in stages through friction with water and microbial action. The product maintains its form during use, then undergoes initial physical decomposition followed by biological decomposition after disposal.
The product also reached the finals in the sustainability category of the "Cosmopack Awards" at Cosmoprof Bologna 2026, held last month in Bologna, Italy, earning recognition for both its technology and eco-friendliness. Cosmax explained that it pursued the development of a product that meets both functional and environmental values, noting the rapidly growing demand for toner pads recently.
The new product uses "VEOCEL Lyocell," a high-strength plant-based material in short-fiber form. The material has obtained a flushability assessment from CTP, a French paper and pulp research institute, and is known to be biodegradable and compostable in natural environments.
The formulation has also been strengthened for eco-friendliness. The essence ingredients contained in the pad consist of 99% naturally derived components, with extracts such as Albatrellus dispansus and thyme leaf applied to achieve a Natural Origin Index (NOI) of 0.99 under the ISO 16128 standard.
"This product enhances sustainability by considering not only the user experience but also the disposal process," a Cosmax official said. "We will continue to expand K-beauty's competitiveness in the global clean beauty market based on our differentiated technology."
