At in-cosmetics 2015 in Barcelona, Mibelle Biochemistry will unveil an alpine flower stem cell active designed to protect stem cells from environmental challenges to allow them to regenerate. PhytoCellTec nunatak (INCI: Not Provided) is derived from a plant that survived the last ice age.
Whereas most other species became extinct in the last ice age, the alpine flower Saponaria pumila survived 10,000 years on ice-free mountain peaks, called nunataks. The nunatak plants are very resistant against environmental challenges such as extreme temperatures and UV exposure.
PhytoCellTec technology was used to produce Saponaria pumila cells sustainably. The technology is based on the unlimited proliferation potential of dedifferentiated, stem cell-like plant cells. The active is an aqueous extract of these cells.
Stem cells in the dermis are responsible for the tissue regeneration that keeps skin firm and elastic. Tested on isolated human dermal stem cells, the active was found to protect these cells against UV-induced loss of stem cell-characteristics. In a placebo-controlled clinical trial with 20 subjects, it was found to significantly improve skin elasticity, firmness and density after 4 weeksof treatment.
The active is recommended in any formulation that protects skin from one of the biggest causes of premature aging, environmental aggressors.
