Ultra Chemical presents Bicoalgae XT, a natural-origin ingredient that according to the company, enables the targeted delivery of the carotenoid-rich algae Haematococcus pluvialis to specific skin layers. The globally compliant (including China) product is recommended for skin care and color cosmetics at 1-3%, where it provides antioxidant, barrier protective, brightening, moisturizing and pollution defense benefits.
Bicoalgae XT: Encapsulating Carotenoids for Powerful One-two Punch
Skin brightening effects after 56 days of test product applicationUltra Chemical
Bicoalgae XT (INCI: Water (Aqua) (and) Phosphatidylcholine (and) Glycerin (and) Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract), is packed with carotenoids including lutein, canthaxanthin, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene and astaxanthin — a bioactive 65x more powerful than vitamin C, per the company. Their double encapsulation stabilizes and protects them against degradation while targeting their delivery to a specific skin depths.
As Ultra Chemical explains, the system is composed of two lipid assemblies: internal smart discs that carry the active, and an external lipid vesicle enclosing the discs. Thanks to this double encapsulation, the vesicle delivers the smart discs to the skin. These then pass through the narrow intercellular spaces of the stratum corneum to reach deeper layers where the active ingredient is released.
The company adds that the smart discs are designed to reach specific layers by tailoring the affinity of the smart discs with the environment of the the given layer.
Clinically Proven Anti-aging Efficacy
Anti-wrinkle efficacy at Day 0 and 28 and 56 days after test product applicationUltra Chemical
The ingredient was clinically shown to provide seven anti-aging benefits. In 20 female volunteers, ages 35-55, twice daily applications of a 3% Bicoalgae XT cream for 56 days:
- reduced wrinkles
- brightened skin
- improved skin firmness
- accelerated cell renewal
- increased anti-oxidant defense and
- reduced lipid peroxidation.
