Conagen Unveils Groundbreaking Natural-Source Retinol Revolutionizing Beauty Industry

Bedford, Mass., Aug. 22, 2023 — Conagen, a leading bioplatform innovator and biomanufacturer, has introduced a pioneering class of sustainable retinol derivative ingredients, achieved through precision fermentation. This groundbreaking advancement promises to reshape the landscape of beauty and personal care applications.

Yisheng Wu, Ph.D., Vice President of Flavors and Fragrances at Conagen, revealed the company's plans to commercialize these innovative retinoid ingredients in 2024. He emphasized that beauty and personal care brands seeking the latest in retinol formulation flexibility should consider Conagen's retinoid offerings.

Conagen's retinoid derivatives are created by covalently binding retinoids with another cosmetic active ingredient into a single molecule. What sets these ingredients apart is that the retinol is produced using a 100% renewable carbon source via precision fermentation. This fusion of retinol with a complementary ingredient extends beyond traditional wrinkle reduction and anti-aging benefits, offering consumers multifunctional capabilities.

Dr. Wu explained, "This development empowers cosmetic formulators to create products that excel in both performance and innovation, aligning with the ever-evolving demands of today's discerning consumers. By providing enhanced stability, controlled release, and multifunctional capabilities, Conagen's retinoid derivatives redefine the possibilities within the cosmetic industry."

One remarkable feature of Conagen's innovative retinoid variants is their adaptability. Depending on the chosen partner for pipeline integration, these compounds introduce flexibility, enabling cosmetic formulators to incorporate a secondary function. This opens the door to inventive features that uniquely enhance cosmetic formulations.

The primary achievement lies in the improved stability these retinoid derivatives provide. This enhanced stability ensures that cosmetic products offer a consistent and extended release of retinol, resulting in long-lasting effects on the skin. Notably, Conagen's retinol ingredients aid in the formulation of low-irritation retinol products, reducing common side effects like redness, dryness, and peeling. They are also compatible with other compounds, such as squalene, bakuchiol, and pomegranate extract, maximizing delivery and effectiveness while minimizing potential off-target effects.

Consumer demand for retinol in beauty and personal care is on the rise, as indicated by Innova Market Insights. With approximately 1 million tags on Instagram and a growing trend, the demand for this anti-aging active ingredient continues to surge. Innova's global report highlights that consumers prioritize anti-aging and anti-acne properties in skincare, followed by blemish reduction.

Conagen's success in retinol innovation is attributed to its high-yield carotenoid platform led by Dr. Wu, who has dedicated years to the project. This meticulously studied platform has already yielded widely utilized carotenoid compounds such as beta-carotene and astaxanthin. By introducing additional steps in the metabolic pathway, Conagen can efficiently produce retinol. This versatile platform also holds the potential to generate various flavors, fragrances, and nutritional compounds derived from carotenoids, further underscoring its significance.

Dr. Wu emphasized, "Conagen's achievement underscores its steadfast commitment to pushing the boundaries of biotechnology and driving innovation. As the cosmetic industry transforms toward cleaner and more sustainable practices, Conagen remains at the forefront of transformative advancements, poised to contribute to a new era in cosmetic formulation."

For more information about Conagen and its innovative retinoid ingredients, please visit www.conagen.com.

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