Frutarom enters Asia’s “beauty from within” market

24 Jul 2018 --- Frutarom has entered the Asian “beauty from within” market with PhytoflORAL, a patented clinically studied cosmeceutical created to give skin a light, even tone and promotes skin health. PhytoflORAL is composed of a proprietary ingredient derived from non-GMO tomatoes rich in the colorless carotenoids, phytoene and phytofluene. It is available as a free-flowing, all-natural powder that can be used in multiple applications, including capsules, chewable tablets, drinks and pre-mix sachets.

“The recent acquisition of IBR by Frutarom opened a new market of cosmeceuticals, with prospects for rapid growth and added value,” says Yoni Glickman, President of Frutarom Natural Solutions. “IBR brings innovation and all-natural solutions backed by research that perfectly fit into our portfolio.”

Clinical data show that dietary intake of phytoene and phytofluene results in the accumulation of these phytochemicals in the skin, delivering multiple skin-health and beauty benefits. These include protection against oxidative damage and sun exposure, as well as capabilities to brighten skin and even out complexion. 

Moreover, these compounds possess inherent anti-aging properties for skin. These carotenoids inhibit melanin synthesis and control pigmentation through natural mechanisms, assist in protecting from UV and oxidative damage, while concurrently reducing inflammation and DNA damage.

The market for ingestible skincare products is tipped for significant growth. The primary drivers for this acceleration are increasing awareness among consumers toward skin health and rising demand of consumers to look good. 

The trend is exceptionally strong in Asia and South America. This awareness is generating significant demand for cosmetics and personal care products, particularly those for anti-aging, skin-tone evening, and sunscreen. The demand for natural, “green,” environmentally friendly cosmetic products is likewise increasing.

“Asia Pacific is one of the top markets for beauty from within ingredients,” explains Liki von Oppen-Bezalel, Ph.D., VP of Business Development and Marketing for IBR. 

“We believe this is a matter of culture and lifestyle and possibly, years of proven efficacy. Healthy appearance is not only from cosmetics use but also strongly linked and coming from within. One’s mindset, healthy diet, physical activity as well as the topical regimen,” von Oppen-Bezalel tells NutritionInsight. “Multiple skin health ingredients, especially so-called ‘skin-whitening’ materials, are unsafe for use. This is why it was vital to develop a safe, research-backed natural ingredient like PhytoflORAL.

According to a Frutarom spokesperson, FPhytoflORAL has been subject to a number of clinical and in vitro studies that demonstrate its bioactivity. Efficacy was further elucidated through gene expression analysis.

In one clinical study, PhytoflORAL presented a significant photoprotective effect after 84 days of supplementation, as indicated by a 20 percent increase in Minimum Erythemal Dose (calculates the shortest exposure to UV radiation before reddening of the skin) in 65 percent of participants. Another study demonstrated a measurable skin lightening effect in 82 percent of subjects noticeable after 42 days and increasing after 84 days. In addition, subjects reported enhanced skin radiance, evenness, hydration, and suppleness, and found their skin to be visually healthier and more resistant to sun damage.

“Since we recommend the dosage tested in our clinical studies, where we saw efficacy, the recommended daily dose is of 4 to 5 mg a day of the active components combination - phytoene and phytofluene, the colorless carotenoids. This is equivalent to 400-500 mg/day of the PhytoflORAL,” von Oppen-Bezalel says. 

IBR developed complementary ingredients to PhytoflORAL for topical use. These products also are rich in phytoene and phytofluene, and available for dual “beauty from inside and outside” regimes. 

Speaking about further areas for growth for PhytoflORAL specifically, von Oppen-Bezalel tells NutritionInsight that the company firmly believes that the ingredient will find application within sports nutrition as it “benefits will be key as a link to protection against pollution and detox.”