THE WHAT? Sparxell has raised US$3.2 million in a seed round to accelerate the development and commercialization of sustainable pigments. The firm hopes that its high-performance, sustainable, plant-based pigments will eliminate the use of synthetic chemicals in colorants.
THE DETAILS The Circular Innovation Fund, which boasts L’Oréal as an anchor investor, participated in the round, along with Future Communities Capital, PDS Ventures, Katapult, and Joyance Partners.
THE WHY? Dr. Benjamin Droguet, Sparxell’s Founder & CEO, comments, ‘Traditional chemical colorants cause major environmental harm at every stage of their lifecycle, from manufacture to degradation. Over 10,000 fossil-based chemicals are used in current coloration processes. The textile industry, a well-known emitter of dyes and microplastics, contributes over 1.5 million tonnes of these pollutants to the environment every year, while paint has recently been recognized as the largest source of microplastics in the ocean.’
Clinical aesthetics products refer to a category of products used in the field of medical aesthetics or cosmetic dermatology. These products are typically designed and formulated to be used under the supervision of healthcare professionals, such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or trained aestheticians. They are distinct from over-the-counter cosmetics in that they often contain active ingredients or formulations that require expertise in their application or administration.
Examples of clinical aesthetics products include:
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Dermal Fillers: Injectable substances used to add volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Examples include hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane.
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Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Injectables that temporarily paralyze facial muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles caused by repetitive movements, such as frown lines and crow's feet.
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Chemical Peels: Solutions applied to the skin to exfoliate and improve its texture. They can treat acne, pigmentation issues, and signs of aging.
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Laser and Light Therapies: Devices that emit focused light or laser energy to treat various skin conditions, including acne, scars, and signs of aging.
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Prescription Skincare Products: Formulations containing active ingredients like retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), hydroquinone, or prescription-strength antioxidants to address specific skin concerns under medical supervision.
