The peptide range, which is due to be launched at the forthcoming In-Cosmetics event in Munich, includes a Sea Beet - aimed at skin whitening products, Sea Fennel – aimed at anti-blemish treatments, and Sea Lavender aimed at anti-ageing formulations.
The peptides are all derived from different varieties of the halophyte plant, which is related to seaweed and adapts to saline conditions through a specific form of osmosis.
Indeed, it is this osmotic process and the resistance to salt that differentiates the plant from other species and gives it unique properties, one of which is a higher level of peptides.
Investing to spearhead halophyte peptides
Copalis says it has invested heavily in the research and development of halophyte peptides and is aiming to become a recognised specialist in the international market place for this type of ingredient.
Halophyte plants have traditionally been farmed for their medicinal and healing properties, as well as use in a variety of food condiments.
However, Copalis says it is spearheading a move to tap into cosmetic uses for the plant, while also respecting the environment.
Ecocert certification
To this end France-based Copalis says it farms the plant using biological pesticides, controlled harvesting and a natural extraction process, and no GMO materials, that adds up to a 100 per cent natural Ecocert certification.
The range has been developed in conjunction with the Copalis research and development team and a dedicated independent laboratory to ensure the safety and efficacy of the three products.
During the development stages the team discovered that its Sea Beet peptide had a potent cosmetic activity against a natural ligand, by slowing down the melanisation process, in turn reducing freckles and sun spots.
The company recommends a 3 – 5 per cent dosing of the active ingredient which it claims can have up to a 110 per cent inhibiting effect on melanin synthesis.
Sea Fennel targets blemishes
Likewise, research in the Sea Fennel peptide found that a 1 per cent dosing level can reduce the tubules responsible for skin blemishes visibly, which the company says has been proven through an angiogenesis test.
Research into Sea Lavender found that because it grows in very high salt concentrations, it fights the conditions by developing accelerated levels of osmolytes and antioxidants.
This allowed the development of a peptide extract that is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which in turn limits H2O2 production after UVA and UVB radiation, making it appropriate for both anti-ageing and sun care formulas.
Copalis says it is readying to give the new peptides range its industry debut at the forthcoming In-Cosmetics event, where the company can be contacted on booth F250.