The New Frontier of Cosmetics
In recent years, the world of cosmetics has undergone a significant evolution thanks to the use of biotechnological actives—functional ingredients that combine scientific research with advanced biological processes.
Science and nature come together: a biotechnological active ingredient is an ingredient obtained through processes that utilize microorganisms, plant cells, enzymes, or other biological systems, such as microbial fermentation, cell cultures, enzymatic biocatalysis, and recombinant technologies.
These methods enable the development of functional ingredients with controlled characteristics, enhancing the properties of natural substances and offering new opportunities for cosmetic research.
White and green biotechnologies, when applied to industrial production and plant resources, make it possible to obtain ingredients with high standards of quality and composition, to harness substances that are difficult to find in nature, and—in some processes—to optimize resource use and reduce environmental impact.
Where to Find Biotech Actives in N|skin
Biotech actives are used in various skincare formulations, helping to enhance their moisturizing, rebalancing, protective, and revitalizing properties.
▸ Microbial Ferments
Fermented ingredients obtained through the cultivation of microorganisms represent one of the most interesting applications of cosmetic biotechnology.
They are derived from controlled fermentation processes and may contain active ingredients beneficial to skin health. In specific formulations, they help promote skin balance, support the skin’s barrier function, and improve skin comfort, especially when used in synergy with other ingredients.
One example is the Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, and Saccharomyces Ferment Complex, found in Body Balance, a rebalancing body wash from the N|skin Pure line.
▸ Biotechnological Enzymes: Superoxide Dismutase (SOD)
Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) is an enzyme naturally present in biological systems, where it plays a role in antioxidant defense mechanisms.
Thanks to its enzymatic activity, it helps neutralize superoxide radicals, making it a functional ingredient of particular interest for the cosmetic protection of the skin against the effects of oxidative stress and environmental stressors.
Through biotechnology, it is possible to produce enzyme complexes for use in cosmetic formulations.
Superoxide Dismutase is present in Dreamy Repair, an anti-wrinkle night cream from the N|skin Firm line, and in Golden Hours, an ultra-nourishing night cream from the N|skin Care line.
▸ Biomimetic Peptides: Where Research Meets Biology
Biomimetic peptides are molecules developed to replicate or be inspired by specific sequences found in biological systems. Highly valued in modern skincare, they are used in formulations designed to improve the appearance of wrinkles, as well as skin elasticity and firmness.
However, not all biomimetic peptides are biotechnological: they can be obtained through chemical synthesis or biotechnological processes, depending on the production technology.
The N|skin Firm line features several functional peptides, which play a key role in anti-aging skincare treatments. Learn more in our in-depth article on Peptides.
Biotechnology in Napura Treatments for Scalp and Hair
Biotechnological innovation also finds application in professional haircare, through ingredients developed to complement treatments dedicated to scalp health and hair vitality.
Among these is Bifida Ferment Lysate, a lysate obtained from the processing of bifidobacteria cultures, valued for its protective and rebalancing properties. It is found, for example, in treatments from the Napura Anagen line, designed for fine, weak hair prone to shedding.
Another application involves plant cell cultures, which allow for the extraction of functional extracts from cells grown under controlled conditions.
Examples include extracts from grape and lilac cell cultures, found in the Napura Stamigen treatments, where they complement the antioxidant, protective, and revitalizing action of formulations designed for weakened hair and signs of hair aging.
Why choose biotechnology in cosmetics?
Biotechnology offers an exciting opportunity to develop increasingly advanced cosmetic formulations, thanks to the ability to obtain ingredients with controlled characteristics and reproducible production processes.
Production under defined conditions can promote the standardization and quality of raw materials, while certain technologies allow for the optimal use of biological resources, reducing dependence on specific crops or natural raw materials.
Biotechnology also offers new possibilities in the development of functional molecules and innovative ingredients, intended for cosmetic formulations tailored to the diverse needs of the skin and hair.
Biotechnological origin and efficacy are distinct characteristics that must be evaluated based on the production process and available evidence.
At Napura, we believe that scientific innovation should serve conscious beauty. That is why we highlight selected biotechnological actives and functional ingredients, integrating them into formulations designed for the well-being and beauty of the skin, Scalp, and hair.
Discover Napura’s cosmetic research and N|skin formulations.
