SEPPIC scooped the Gold award for its innovative Ephemer ingredient during the Green Ingredient Award at in-cosmetics 2016 in Paris. Ephemer is an active ingredient derived from Celebrity, the technological innovation in cellular culture of macroalgae.
This award was granted by a jury of cosmetics experts. It recognises an ingredient having a significant impact on preserving the environment and used for over one year in cosmetic applications.
Ephemer is a gametophyte extract, taken from macroalgae cells, and grown in a laboratory and harvested at an ephemeral stage in the life cycle of Undaria Pinnatifida seaweed. During this growth step, the macroalgae cells accumulate antioxidant molecules. This active ingredient contributes to the protection of the skin by strengthening its antioxidant capacity, slowing the formation of free radicals, responsible for aging.
From an environmental point of view, the technology based on in vitro culture limits the harvesting of marine resources for producing the active.
"This award represents a very proud moment for SEPPIC and BiotechMarine, as it illustrates the boldness and creativity shown by the research teams to achieve this unique innovation and to offer strong prospects for new responsible actives,” said Guénolé Le Calvez, Director of BiotechMarine, SEPPIC’s subsidiary that developed the innovation.
The awards saw five products shortlisted by a panel of industry experts. The Silver award went to Sederma with Majestem, while the Bronze was taken by IBR with its IBR-Pristinizer ingredient.
