Givaudan Active Beauty launches Illuminyl 388

Published: 22-Mar-2024

A highly potent skin brightening prebiotic paving the way for inclusivity

Givaudan Active Beauty unveils Illuminyl™ 388, a biotech-enhanced molecule designed through cell-free glycosylation to address the challenges of skin pigmentation for all skin types. Crafted through a unique biocatalysis process from EGCG 1 , green tea's most iconic antioxidant, this ingenious brightening molecule delivers a holistic luminous effect.

At the heart of Illuminyl™ 388 is a commitment to inclusivity in skincare innovation. This bio-based active has been designed to simultaneously target multiple skin pigmentation pathways and is reinforced by additional prebiotic activity to meet the needs of diverse skin types from Africa, Asia, India, and Europe.

Givaudan Active Beauty undertook in-depth and global clinical studies, engaging over 200 volunteers comprised of 4 diverse skin tones (African, Asian, Indian, and Caucasian), in turn establishing that Illuminyl™ 388 is able to:

  • Improve skin radiance in just 2 weeks
  • Enhance skin tone & luminosity in just 2 weeks
  • Reduce pigmentation spots in just 1 month
  • Enhance skin tone homogeneity, even tackling stubborn age spots.

Illuminyl™ 388 has a unique bioavailability with an in-depth skin penetration profile. Its sugar moiety enables its absorption via cellular glucose receptors, while conferring on the molecule a prebiotic activity which stimulates the in-situ release of a niacin-derivative by the skin microflora.

Daniel Auriol, Scientific Director Biotechnology - Active Beauty, comments: “Clinical studies conducted on 4 different skin types underline the universal efficacy of this skin illuminating active. Givaudan Active Beauty continues to push the boundaries of innovation with Illuminyl™ 388: we are not only targeting all the major pigmentation pathways but we also trigger the skin microbiota to produce whitening postbiotics. Whether it's improving skin radiance and luminosity, promoting even skin tone, or reducing pigmentation spots, Illuminyl™ 388 outperforms traditional benchmarks such as vitamin C. It is a testament to our commitment to redefining beauty standards and empowering individuals worldwide.”

Achieving a B-Biome™ Score 2 of ’B’, this brightening active works in synergy with the microbiome to preserve the general balance of the skin’s microbiota.


1 - EpiGalloCatechin Gallate
2 - The first scientifically proven, 100% transparent and microbiome-friendly label for cosmetic ingredients.

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