Gattefossé has debuted Noxifense, a natural cosmetic active that safeguards critical epidermal lipids against assault from the exposome, including, for example, UV exposure, pollution and cigarette smoke. According to the company, sensitive skin is increasingly common, and these environmental factors trigger the dual biological response of oxi-inflammation, a vicious cycle of oxidation and inflammation that compromises the structural integrity of the skin's protective lipids. The ingredient targets this oxi-inflammatory environment, restoring balance and soothing even irritant-prone skin.
Upcycling Sea Buckthorn's Skin Protection Properties
Derived from the resilient sea buckthorn plant, Noxifense (INCI: Not Provided) reportedly harnesses the powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds naturally found in the plant's leaves. More specifically, the ingredient is:
- Upcycled from organic orchards in Quebec,
- Extracted using an eco-efficient, energy-conserving process , and
- Entirely natural, organic-certified and free from preservatives, aligning with sustainable cosmetic principles.
Halting Oxi-Inflammation at the Source
As Gattefossé explains, sea buckthorn is rich in flavonol glycosides and ellagitannins, bioactive compounds essential to its skin-calming effects. In vitro models simulating environmental assaults (e.g., UV radiation and pollution) on lipid peroxidation in the viable epidermis demonstrated Noxifense's capacity to disrupt this cycle.
The ingredient targets key biological mechanisms, in turn:
- Reducing intracellular ROS (reactive oxygen species) levels, fortifying antioxidant defenses, and
- Inhibiting the NF-kB pathway to mitigate inflammatory responses.
Clinical Data Highlights
Per the company, a clinical trial conducted in Asian participants with sensitive skin revealed measurable benefits, including:
- A significant reduction in stinging sensations and visible redness,
- Improved overall comfort, texture and tone of the skin, and
- Enhanced hydration, yielding smooth and radiant results for participants.
Considerations for Formulators
Noxifense is said to integrate seamlessly into a diverse range of formulations for sensitive skin care. Its versatile nature supports applications in a variety of product types. Examples include:
- Serums for daily skin soothing,
- Creams tailored to restore lipid balance and
- Masks targeting stressed or reactive skin.
Gattefossé adds that the ingredient’s compatibility with other natural compounds makes it an ideal choice for multifunctional cosmetic solutions, introducing a science-backed, eco-conscious approach to skin sensitivity that meets the growing demand for effective and sustainable solutions.
"The sensitive skin market is among the most dynamic segments in skin care, driven by increasingly harsh environmental factors such as UV exposure, pollution and stress," said Laurie Canel, product marketing leader of active ingredients for the company. "Sensitive skin spans all skin types, making soothing cosmetic products the new industry standard."
