THE WHAT? Beiersdorf, the Hamburg-based skincare giant, has announced a significant breakthrough in anti-aging research with the introduction of ‘Glycostop™’, a patented active ingredient designed to combat glycation, a process that accelerates skin aging due to sugar. This innovation marks the culmination of a decade’s research involving the testing of approximately 1,700 substances.
THE DETAILS Glycation, a natural but harmful chemical reaction where sugar molecules bond with proteins, notably diminishes skin elasticity and resilience, leading to wrinkles and a yellowish discoloration. Beiersdorf’s new ingredient, NAHP (N-Acetyl-L-hydroxyproline), effectively prevents the formation of harmful glycation end-products (AGEs) by up to 68%, safeguarding the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers. The breakthrough was led by Dr. Gitta Neufang and her team of over 1,000 researchers, building on Beiersdorf’s legacy of anti-aging innovations such as the coenzyme Q10.
THE WHY? This groundbreaking development not only enhances Beiersdorf’s portfolio in the anti-aging market but also sets new standards in skincare technology. The introduction of the NIVEA Q10 Dual Action Serum in April 2024, which combines ‘Glycostop™’ with Q10, offers consumers a powerful dual-action formula that tackles wrinkles and skin ageing from its roots. This product aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability, featuring eco-friendly packaging and a formulation free from harmful additives.
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.
