Atrium launches skin care active

Canada-based Atrium Biotechnologies has launched a new active ingredient for the cosmetic industry. Aldavine is algae-derived and is said to be a multi-functional ingredient for skin care products.

Described as a highly potent active ingredient, it is derived from two algaes - Ascophyllum nodsum and Asparagopsis armata. Using biotechnology processes, which is both cheaper and easier, the company says it has been able to maximise on the efficacy of the ingredient.

These attributes are said to make the ingredient more potent, which in turn means it is effective for the treatment of aging, photodamage, sun burn, roscacea, acne, sensitive skin conditions, teleangiectasia and actinic Elastosis.

The company also says that because of high levels of active polysaccharides, the ingredient has also been clinically proved as an effective treatment for microcapillary integrity. As we grow old diminishing levels of microcapillary activity deprive the skin of a good supply of nutrients - a problem that the product addresses.

The algae itself is sourced in a pollutant-free environment that is protected by UNESCO. This, the company says, allows for optimal growth of high quality plant life.

Using the biotechnology process the galactans from ascophyllum nodsum are depolymerized that helps confer the specific biological activities.

Aldavine actually works by inhibiting the execessive production of VEGF and PGE2 - two biochemical mediators that help regulate the skin aging process as well as exposure to UV and other environmental hardships together with the benefits it has on the microcapillary integrity.

Atrium Biotechnologies, a maker of ingredients and solutions for the personal care and pharmaceutical industries, says that the introduction of the ingredient gives formulators a tool with which to produce products for healthier skin by maintaining the integrity of the extra cellular matrix.