BASF Personal Care has unveiled ‘Floragenist’, a range of new floral active ingredients for the skin with scientifically proven efficacy. Inspired by traditional plant extracts and based on epigenetics, the duo – ‘Floragenist Rose’ and ‘Floragenist Blossom’ – is designed to enhance the skin’s radiance and strengthen its resilience against everyday stresses, the company explained. The ingredients are sourced from certified organically grown Damask roses and bitter orange blossoms, which are harvested by hand in Morocco and are fully traceable. This promotes responsible farming practices and supports the local population, according to the company.

Coconut water as a solvent

At the heart of the development is BASF’s sustainable ‘Aqua Genesis’ extraction technology, which uses coconut water as a natural solvent. This allows bioactive plant compounds to be gently extracted without aggressive solvents, preserves sensitive phytochemicals and increases the concentration of key active ingredients. Compared with conventional extraction methods, the technology enables higher flavonoid concentrations. In developing the active ingredients, BASF also drew on insights from epigenetics, a branch of biology that investigates how environmental factors and lifestyle influence gene activity. The result is high-quality flower extracts that support the epidermis.

Improved skin radiance

The ingredient ‘Floragenist Rose’ is primarily designed to improve the skin’s radiance and promote a refined complexion. It supports the skin’s own production of proteins responsible for skin structure and light reflection, which contribute to skin firmness and luminosity. Furthermore, ‘Floragenist Rose’ mitigates the effects of oxidative stress and ensures a more even complexion. ‘Floragenist Blossom’ is said to support the skin’s ability to adapt to environmental and lifestyle-related stresses. The active ingredient also promotes skin elasticity, supports the skin barrier and improves the appearance of epidermal cohesion. Studies have confirmed the beneficial effects of the Floragenist ingredients, explained BASF. The active ingredients are also part of the “Responsibly Active” programme, through which the company aims to strengthen transparency, responsible sourcing and environmental criteria.

Source: BASF