Welcome to the 2026 NZSCC Innovation Zone

The Innovation Zone is the beating heart of our conference - a dedicated space where science meets application, and the future of New Zealand cosmetics is unveiled. For 2026, we’ve reimagined the experience to give you more time, better access, and a completely level playing field for our awards.

Judging Criteria

What’s New for 2026?

1. The "Blind" Product Innovation Awards This year, the formulation does the talking. To ensure our awards celebrate pure science, efficacy, and sensory experience, the Best Innovative Concept will be judged entirely through blind testing.

  • How it works: All entries will be displayed in unbranded packaging and assigned a random number. Attendees will judge the formulas purely on their merit, without brand bias.

  • Instant Voting: Loved a product? Simply scan the QR code next to the sample to log your vote instantly on your phone

  • Note for Entrants: You will be required to submit your product in plain, unbranded packaging suitable for your product type (e.g., a plain pump for lotions, a plain jar for balms). The NZSCC will provide the packaging and provide the numbered labels.

  • If the formula has been supplied under the best innovative product category, the same product cannot be entered into different categories.

2. The Digital Ingredient Lookbook. We know the Innovation Zone can get busy! To help you plan your time, all registered attendees will receive an exclusive Digital Ingredient Lookbook weeks before the conference begins.

  • This comprehensive guide will feature key technical information on the ingredients being showcased in the Best Active Ingredient and Best Functional Ingredient cat.

  • You can review the science early, decide which ingredients you want to see in person, and know exactly which suppliers you want to hear from on the day.

  • This year, the formula does the talking. This category honors the most outstanding finished cosmetic products, judged purely on their chemistry, sensory profile, and performance. To eliminate brand bias and ensure a level playing field, we have introduced a blind-testing protocol where your work is judged on merit alone.

    The Submission

    In 150 words or less, please describe:

    • The Innovation: What makes this formulation groundbreaking?

    • Testing: How were the efficacy and stability verified?

    How it Works

    1. Enter: Submit your product details and 150-word description.

    2. Package: We will send you standardized, unbranded packaging to ensure a fair, blind trial.

    3. Vote: Winners are decided by people’s votes based on hands-on experience with the product’s texture, scent, and results.

    Entry Rules

    • Eligibility: Products must have launched within the last 12 months.

    • Limit: One formulator may submit a maximum of 2 products (must be in different categories).

    Categories:‍ ‍

    • Skin Care (Face, eyes, moisturizers, serums, color cosmetic)

    • Hair Care (Stylings, scalp, health)

    • Personal Care (Body, oral, fragrance)

    Questions? If your formulation is unique and doesn't fit these categories, please contact us at info@nzscc.org.nz.

  • Formerly Sustainable Design

    This award celebrates products with an undeniable presence that captivates consumers at first glance. Whether standing out on a physical retail shelf or making a bold statement in e-commerce, the category recognises excellence in product aesthetics and storytelling.

    Focus area

    • Product design

    • Brand design

    • Brand story

    Criteria

    • Submission is a standout product that demonstrates high visual appeal and a compelling brand narrative

    • Storytelling that connects product purpose, values and consumer relevance

    Categories

    • FMCG

    • Masstige

    • Indie

  • A new product launched within the last 12 months with a focus on the Kiwi can-do spirit and promoting New Zealand as the theme.

    We encourage all startup brands to participate!

    The audience will be asked to review the functionality, the appearance and feel, the overall sustainability and the fitness to the theme.

  • Discover new active ingredients launched by suppliers in the last 12 months. The audience will be asked to review the efficacy, the sustainability profile, and the innovativeness.

  • Discover new functional ingredients launched by suppliers in the last 12 months. The audience will be asked to review the sensory and/or functionality benefit, the ease of use, the overall sustainability, and the innovativeness.