CosmeticsDesign.com USA speaks with Eliot Entis, LiftLab CEO, whose company claims to be the only commercial producer of patented antifreeze proteins (AFPs) purified from natural sources.
The biotechnology firm produces its trademarked Cell Protection Proteins, (CPP), which are used as an active ingredient in every product in the company’s skin care range, and stresses the importance of correct dosage.
“Ensuring the right dosage of active ingredients has been put into products is critical,” explains Entis. “To put it simply – it has to be exactly right or it won’t work. They are not harmful in any way”
Cosmetics application
Entis believes that the most uniquely valuable aspect of CPPs is their ability to increase the production of proteins in skin cells that are responsible for the repair and creation of new cells; a recognized anti-aging function.
Forty-one skin proteins responsible for protecting or renewing skin, including collagen, elastin, and keratin, double or triple their output when CPPs are applied in a cosmetic base, he says. “No other single protein has as broad and powerful effect on skin as CPPs.”
The concept behind LiftLab’s AFP offering is based on some marine fish species containing a compound in their blood that lowers the freezing point of the whole fish so that they are safe from freezing all year round.
There are also certain species of insects, plants, fungi and bacteria known to produce antifreeze, and this has been developed as it has strong potential in anti-aging skin care if harnessed correctly.
Biotech boom
Biotechnology is being adopted more and more in the cosmetics industry, with the science of these sensitive ingredients dating back tens of years, such as LiftLab’s studies, which led to considerable applied research in the fields of cell and tissue preservation.
“Clinical trials showed an unprecedented 95% reduction in erythema (redness and irritation) from UV rays, a result not seen before at the independent lab conducting the study,” continues Entis.
“Other studies demonstrated CPPs’ powerful ability to attract and retain moisture in skin cells through their natural ability to bind to water molecules.”
The biotech firm’s boss also adds that that whilst the proteins do provide protection and allow skin to heal more quickly, they do not have an SPF factor and should not be used as such.