Ashland Specialty Ingredients (Ashland) has launched Saffragyl biofunctional (INCI: Crocus Sativus Flower Extract (and) Propanediol), a COSMOS approved bioactive for the biology of the gingiva that strengthens sensitive and irritated gums.
It is water-soluble and can be formulated at one percent in oral care applications such as leave-on gels, serums, mouthwash and toothpaste as part of a daily gum care beauty routine.
The ingredient is an alternative to chlorhexidine and treats gingival inflammation and plaque build-up. It offers a solution to gums prone to gingivitis and is microbiome-friendly, gum-friendly and can be used daily.
In vitro tests have shown Saffragyl biofunctional to reinforce the gum barrier and limit noxious bacterial adhesion similar to chlorhexidine.
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In vivo testing volunteers felt the product improved their gingival health and that they perceived more soothed, less sensitive gums and visually, less dental plaque was seen.
Justine Cotton, global marketing manager, biofunctionals, Ashland, commented: “Gum health is the new oral health. Gingival disorders such as gingivitis and periodontitis represent a real public health problem."
Christophe Capallere, senior team leader, Tissue Engineering, Toxicology in vitro and evaluation, Ashland, commented: “Oral health (gum and teeth) is connected to overall health and well-being. Recent research has demonstrated the link between oral bacteria with age-related health disorders that go beyond gingival recession such as Alzheimer and cardiac problems. Knowing that 90% of the global population is suffering from gingival inflammation (gingivitis), taking care of gum health in a prevention mode should be considered as the number one strategy in our daily healthy beauty routine.”