ABT launches alternative to acid exfoliation for skin care

Zonase X is a natural, marine ingredient derived from the hatching fluid of salmon, where the enzyme Zonase allows the fish embryo to hatch from its egg by digesting the eggshell without harming the larva.

The company claims that this process of digesting dead tissue in the eggshell while protecting the living larvae is the key to Zonase X, as it gently stimulates skin renewal without harming the skin.

According to ABT, Zonase X digests the links between the dead skin cells, and leaves the living cells untouched, therefore exfoliating the skin without causing inflammation.

“Our testing has shown that all-natural Zonase X is as effective as other exfoliants on the market, yet does not have the same abrasive qualities and is far gentler on the skin,” ​said ABT’s executive chairman, Thor Arne Talseth.

In-vitro​​ tests ​

In in-vitro​ tests, the exfoliation potency of Zonase X was shown to be comparable to 1 hour exposure to commonly used α- and β-hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid and salicylic acid).

This alternative to acid exfoliation works across a variety of pH’s, said ABT, with in-​vitro tests showing the optimum level to be around 7.5 pH.

In single exposure and repeated exposure tests on human volunteers, Zonase X was shown to be non-allergenic, the company stated.

Already well received in Scandinavian market​

​According to ABT, the positive reception of Zonase X in the Scandinavian market, where it has been used in the Zona and Kilda Skindiver skin care brands, is an indicator of its potential in the global market.

Its exfoliating and moisturising attributes “have been very well received during the Scandinavian launch, and we believe this unique discovery could quickly become a dominant ingredient within the anti-ageing segment,” ​said Talseth.