Evonik Unveils Advanced Skin Microbiome Model to Revolutionize Cosmetics Testing

Evonik Unveils Advanced Skin Microbiome Model to Revolutionize Cosmetics Testing

(IN BRIEF) Evonik has developed a groundbreaking model of the skin microbiome that allows for realistic, scientifically validated testing of how cosmetic ingredients impact the skin’s microbial communities. This model recreates the complex interactions between microbes, providing more accurate insights into whether products are microbiome-friendly. The new approach is cost-effective and fills the gap between simple in-vitro tests and more complex in-vivo studies. Evonik’s innovation is part of its broader efforts in biotechnology through its Biotech Hub and Skin Institute, positioning the company to drive growth in the cosmetics industry with evidence-based solutions.

(PRESS RELEASE) ESSEN, 17-Sep-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Evonik, a leader in specialty chemicals, has developed a cutting-edge model of the skin microbiome, allowing for the first time a comprehensive and scientifically validated evaluation of how cosmetic ingredients impact the skin’s microbial communities. This innovative model marks a major step forward in the field of cosmetics, providing a more accurate and realistic way to assess how products interact with the skin’s complex ecosystem, moving beyond the traditional, simplified tests that focus on individual bacteria strains.

A New Approach to Skin Microbiome Testing

The skin microbiome consists of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, all of which coexist in delicate balance to maintain healthy skin. Traditionally, tests to determine how cosmetics affect the microbiome have only analyzed the impact on individual microbial strains, neglecting the intricate interactions that occur within the entire microbial community. Evonik’s new model solves this limitation by recreating the complex microbial environment of the skin in laboratory settings.

This advanced model involves co-cultivating between eight and ten typical skin microbes, allowing them to proliferate and interact as they would in natural conditions. This approach enables the accurate measurement of how cosmetic ingredients alter the overall balance of the microbiome, determining whether a product is “microbiome-boosting,” “friendly,” “modulating,” or “impairing.” By measuring the increase or decrease in biomass and microbial diversity, Evonik’s model offers a far more comprehensive assessment of a product’s microbiome-friendliness.

Any significant change in bacterial diversity is considered detrimental, as the skin microbiome relies on maintaining a natural equilibrium for its protective functions. This model fills the gap between basic in-vitro tests and more complex in-vivo studies, making it both cost-effective and scientifically robust.

Benefits for the Cosmetics Industry

The implications of this new model are significant for the cosmetics industry, where scientifically substantiated claims are increasingly driving consumer behavior and growth. As younger consumers become more informed and selective about product benefits and ingredients, having solid scientific backing is crucial. Evonik’s model helps cosmetic producers demonstrate that their products are microbiome-friendly, giving them a competitive edge in a market projected to grow from $460 billion in 2023 to $580 billion by 2027.

Evonik is already testing cosmetic ingredients from its own portfolio using this model, gathering evidence-based information that will inform the development of new, microbiome-friendly products. The company also plans to collaborate with other cosmetic producers to further enhance its testing capabilities.

Building on Expertise and Innovation

Evonik’s advancements in microbiome modeling are supported by its Biotech Hub and Skin Institute. The Biotech Hub brings together the company’s expertise in biotechnology, focusing on complex biological systems like the skin microbiome and gut microbiota. With teams located in Germany and China, Evonik is working on sustainable biotechnological solutions to improve health and the environment. The Skin Institute, established in 2023, serves as a global network of laboratories dedicated to providing evidence for dermacosmetic claims across Evonik’s product portfolio.

The new skin microbiome model is just one example of how Evonik is leveraging its deep expertise in biotechnology to create innovative solutions for the cosmetics industry. The company is already developing additional models for specific skin conditions, such as acne-prone skin, and plans to enhance the complexity of its models by integrating microbial cultures with tissue and cell cultures, offering even more precise and realistic insights into product interactions.

Future Prospects

Evonik’s innovative approach not only benefits cosmetics manufacturers but also has far-reaching implications for consumers, who are increasingly seeking products that are both effective and safe for the skin’s microbiome. By providing a scientifically validated way to assess microbiome-friendly products, Evonik is helping to shape the future of the cosmetics industry, driving growth through evidence-based innovation.

As the company continues to refine its testing models and collaborate with industry partners, it is well-positioned to become a key player in the global push toward more sustainable and scientifically substantiated cosmetic solutions.

About Evonik

Evonik is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. The company is active in more than 100 countries around the world and generated sales of €15.3 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of €1.66 billion in 2023. Evonik goes far beyond chemistry to create innovative, profitable, and sustainable solutions for customers. More than 33,000 employees work together for a common purpose: We want to improve life today and tomorrow.

Disclaimer

In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.

Media Contacts:

Dr. Bernd Kaltwaßer
External Communications: Sustainability
Tel +49 6181 59-12248
bernd.kaltwasser@evonik.com

Holger Seier
Research, Development & Innovation
Mobile +49 151 53 83 15 77
Holger.Seier@evonik.com

SOURCE: Evonik