At in-cosmetics Global 2026 (April 14-16), BASF unveiled several additions to its cosmetic ingredients portfolio, including two active ingredients developed through strategic partnerships that introduce new collagen-targeting strategies.

Targeting damaged collagen

NeoHelix Regenerate is a high-performance precision peptide that enhances the skin’s natural self-repair mechanisms for adaptive collagen renewal. It adapts concepts from the collagen-hybridizing peptide (CHP) technology of the U.S. start-up 3Helix into the world of cosmetics.

A biomedical-inspired innovation, NeoHelix Regenerate is engineered to not only support collagen, but also to enhance the skin’s natural communication and self-repair, boosting the renewal processes that time and daily stressors have diminished. According to BASF, it is especially bioavailable to areas of damage, delivering deep cellular renewal exactly where the skin needs it most.

In vivo studies show a 41% reduction in damaged collagen and an ability to support the body’s own hyaluronic acid levels, rising by 65% over the study period. Notably, the new ingredient outperformed the comparative peptide benchmark in all measured parameters.

NeoHelix Regenerate was honored by the BSB Innovation Award jury, ranking first in the Cosmetics / Raw Materials category.

Advancing the future of collagen banking

SkinNexus Collag3n redefines collagen banking with a bio-identical Collagen III fragment. This ingredient leverages the advanced bioengineering of Bota Biosciences, a global leader in physical AI-driven biomanufacturing.

Produced through biotechnology by vegan yeast fermentation, the new ingredient stands apart from traditional collagen offerings through its 100% human-identical sequence and biomimetic effects supporting the skin’s extracellular matrix.

In a 3D dermis model, the ingredient was shown to support a healthy environment for full-spectrum collagen homeostasis (+48% Collagen I, +82% Collagen III, +71% Collagen V), while clinical studies demonstrated measurable improvements in skin tonicity and sagging appearance, and a visible reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles after four weeks.

Both ingredients are impressive examples of the innovative power that strong partnerships can unleash. By working with the skin’s own biology, we are moving from traditional collagen-support claims to more advanced renewal and preservation across multiple levels,” highlighted Lucilene Veira Nunes, Business Management BASF Beauty Care Solutions.

A naturally derived peptide for thicker hair

Beyond skin rejuvenation strategies, BASF also tapped into the huge hair care trend with Aloversil a natural-origin active developed to support the appearance of denser, fuller hair in men. Derived from upcycled sea buckthorn seedcake, it leverages potent natural peptides to promote a healthier scalp environment. Clinical testing in a four-month, placebo-controlled study showed improved hair coverage and density, while in vitro results suggest enhanced cellular communication and micro-vascularization linked to healthier-looking hair.

Aloversil was recognized with the second place by the BSB Innovation Award jury in the Natural Products/Raw Materials category.