Givaudan invests in personalisation with launch of skin microbiome analyser
The firm’s instant microbiome analysis and profiling system (i-MAPS) uses bioinformatics data to create individual profiles, claiming to map the skin microbiome in around seven hours.
Each profile features user-specific insights describing the bacterial communities that make up the microbiome and how it links to oily, dry, sensitive, or an ageing skin type.
“This technological advancement is the first step into unclaimed territory creating new strategic opportunities for our customers to explore the personalisation of beauty products with microbiome data in the future,” says Laurent Bourdeau, Givaudan’s head of active beauty.
“The creation of i-MAPS is not only an impressive achievement in microbiome research, but it’s also a game changer for the world of cosmetics.
“We are very proud to create new revolutionary cosmetic innovations supported by a highly experienced and dedicated team of scientists who continue to advance our research of the microbiome.”
Industry convergence
Interest in the skin microbiome is not restricted to the nutrition industry as those working in the cosmetics and beauty sector will attest to.
However, the convergence of these industries has seen partnerships form that take elements from these sectors to create products, which tap into the ‘beauty from within’ approach to life.
June of this year saw French biotech firm Deinove partner with chemical giant Dow to commercialise a new bacterial-based active ingredient for skin care.
Under the terms of the commercially exclusive agreement, Dow selected one extract from Deinove’s bacterial bank with a view to integrating it into its current product portfolio. A subsequent product launch is expected early 2021.
Meanwhile, Royal DSM’s venture investment arm made its interest in the skin microbiome clear with financial support backing the efforts of Belgium-based life sciences company S-Biomedic earlier this year.
The outlay reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to gut microbiome research and solutions that included its Culturelle product range, which uses Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG to aid in good digestive and immune health.
Givaudan global study
Established brands in the nutricosmetic sector include the UK’s SkinBioTherapeutics and AOBiome in the US where research by the companies into the skin microbiome is being translated into therapies.
British company Vitabiotics also launched its Perfectil brand in the US nutricosmetics market in 2018 with products that include Triple Active Support for Skin, Hair and Nails; Perfectil Nails; Perfectil Hair and Perfectil Skin.
Its main ingredients include B-vitamins like riboflavin and niacin, as well as minerals selenium and zinc.
Such activities bolster Givaudan’s recent findings that suggest an upsurge in consumer demand for more tailored beauty products, particularly those that focus on the skin microbiome.
According to the firm’s global consumer study 73% of people across the world say they are willing to try cosmetic products with a skin microflora concept.
Additionally, 78% of respondents recognise that when skin microflora is out of balance, it can result in skin-related issues or diseases.
