biotechnology
,neurocosmetics
,customized artificial intelligence
andultra-sustainable packaging
. Such advances in skincare technology have created a whole new realm to better understand the ultimate practices to achieve the best skin possible.Biotechnology is the application of biological principles through microbial fermentation, enzymatic processes, and genetic engineering to create technologies that result in products and services that improve the life of human beings and maintain the integrity of Mother Earth[1][2]. Biotechnology has been part of our lives for thousands of years as it has played a key role in the production/preservation of food staples such as bread and cheese[1][2].
Lately, biotechnology has been making the headlines of beauty magazines due to the benefits obtained from its usage in the cosmetic industry. Did you know that ingredients like epidermal growth factor, hyaluronic acid, kojic acid, resveratrol, algae-derived substances, and even stem cells are produced via biotechnological processes? [2]. Perhaps the most exciting innovation is the incorporation of biotechnology in the manufacture of molecules that were previously synthesized from petrochemicals[3].
One clear example is isododecane, which is an ingredient that is widely used (20-50%) in the cosmetic industry as a solvent, softening agent and achieves a longwear performance[3]. The process involves fermenting a sugar (sucrose from beets) via the action of the Escherichia coli bacteria[3]. The ubiquitous 1.3 propanediol, humectant, solvent, and viscosity controlling agent, is another ingredient previously derived from petrochemicals that is now bio-sourced[4].
This translates into greener ingredients that reduce carbon emissions, generate a minimum amount of waste (or zero waste), and are not classified as toxins.
Neurocosmetics, on the other hand, is a relatively new branch of the cosmetics industry that acknowledges the connection and relationship between the skin and the nervous system as both share the same hormones, receptors, and neurotransmitters[5][6]. When the cutaneous sensory system is stimulated by the environment, heat, cold, pressure, color, texture, smell, stress, etc., it sends a message to the brain, and this elicits a response aimed at the adaptation of the skin to that stimulus[5][6]. Following the same pattern of action, neurocosmetics' goal is to counteract the negative effects of cortisol via the release of endorphins, inhibit the release of the substance P, an inflammatory agent, and strengthen the immune system[5][6]. These actions can be observed on the skin as increased hydration levels, reduced redness, smoother fine lines/wrinkles, firmer skin, balanced sebum secretion, etc[5][6]. Emotionally speaking, these formulas produce a centering, relaxing, or uplifting effect as well as increase the general sense of wellbeing[5][6]. Hence, the benefits of neurocosmetics are two-fold:
- They improve the condition of the skin which, in turn, supports a healthy self-esteem.
- Produce a positive state of mind that translates into a supple and radiant skin.
If you think about it, aromatherapy can be considered the most ancient form of neurocosmetics (although, it has never been classified as such). It fulfills every single action required by any neurocosmetic formula. Actually, some of the most popular ingredients used by these types of products come from the aromatherapy realm such as camphor, frankincense, vanilla, etc.
Customized skincare is another trend that is not new at all, but now it comes with a very “tech twist”: artificial intelligence and 3D-printing will be used to collect all the client's information, such as local weather conditions, product preferences, etc., as well as to scan through their skin in order to detect any imbalances[7][8]. Furthermore, DNA tests are now being performed so as to gather all the genetic information that will pinpoint specific strengths and weaknesses of the skin[7]. All this data is used to provide a much more precise skin diagnosis and treatments. The technology has gone so far that some companies are implementing these tools to create beauty machines capable of producing personalized and freshly blended single-use dosages in a matter of seconds[8]. This technology eliminates the need for preservatives; it literally means that your formulas can go straight from the lab to your skin.
Finally, ultra-sustainable packaging is a new technology that allows for packaging that is 100% recyclable and completely biodegrades within 6-10 years[9]. In order to reduce the environmental impact, companies are also turning to other types of materials like bioplastics produced from sugar cane or ocean waste[9]. The packaging future looks extremely promising, and the goal is to be able to offer skincare and cosmetic formulas that use no plastic at all or that use those that are practically zero waste[9].
To conclude, skincare practices have been evolutionizing with time and the industry still has a lot to expand on. In the meantime, make sure to take part in the available practices to achieve the best skin possible. To learn more about the recent skincare tips and tricks, make sure to follow us on Instagram, Linkedin, Pinterest, and Facebook.
References
[1] https://www.bio.org/what-biotechnology
[2] https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/7/2/33
[5] https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/8/3/66/htm
[6] https://www.cossma.com/ingredients/article/well-being-with-neurocosmetics-36213.html
[7] https://connect.in-cosmetics.com/trends-en/technology/beauty-tech-ready-for-the-future-of-cosmetics/
[8] https://www.premiumbeautynews.com/en/beauty-tech-the-main-innovations,16035
