Why Osmanthus is the best ally to protect skin from climate change

Published: 7-Mar-2024

In its pursuit to offer innovative geo-skincare solutions, Croda launches Phytessence Osmanthus, a botanical extract with proven antioxidant and soothing properties to protect the skin from the harmful effects of harsh weather patterns

Croda sought inspiration in the protective reputation of plants in traditional wisdom across the world, in areas where local populations found trusted allies against the adversities of their climates. Their attention was drawn to the osmanthus flower, a rustic plant native to East Asia.

That’s all the research team needed to create a new skincare ingredient that embodies the essence of the Geo-Skincare concept. Tailored to address skin needs influenced by specific geographical and climatic factors. Quantified in verbacoside, Phytessence™ Osmanthus is one of the very first botanical ingredients specifically designed for geo-skincare, with no compromise on naturalness.

Efficacy tests on Phytessence™ Osmanthus showed proven antioxidant and soothing properties that make it an ideal asset for protecting the skin against these harmful effects of sun exposure, exacerbated by climate change:

  • Protection: it increases the production of HSP70 (proteins associated to defence mechanisms against heat stress) and reduces the production of free radicals (in vitro tests).
  • Soothing effect: it reduces redness after UVA/UVB exposure (in vivo test) and the production of PGE 2 (in vitro test).

Keeping the need to address the causes of climate change in mind, Croda has of course taken this to its logical conclusion and opted for the most responsible extraction process for this ingredient. That's why Phytessence™ Osmanthus is produced using the Eco-Sound™ technology, as it has been estimated that this method consumes only 9 Wh/kg of extract and emits sixteen times less CO 2 than maceration, while preserving heat-sensitive molecules.

Because osmanthus is also such a popular and trendy ingredient in perfumery, Phytessence™ Osmanthus is an excellent opportunity to create a skincare-fragrance application or other perfumed care products that will enchant the senses and provide holistic well-being to consumers.

The botanical specialist of Croda worked with Parfex (a French fragrance company, part of Croda) to unite botanical active ingredient and fragrance around the osmanthus flower. This floral accord embodies the pleasant warmth of the sun on the skin. Both the ingredient and the perfume will be showcased during the In-Cosmetics® event in Paris on the Croda stand. Don’t miss the chance to discover them!

Phytessence™ Osmanthus is 99.4% natural derived (ISO16128) and COSMOS approved. A patent is pending for this new active ingredient. Learn more on the product page on Croda Personal Care’s website.

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