BASF introduces new active spheres for anti aging and skin care formulations

BASF Beauty Creations, the cosmetic active ingredient business of BASF, has introduced Ultra Filling Spheres, new active spheres for anti aging and skin care formulations.

The firm’s new spheres include Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Trihydroxystearin, Sodium Hyaluronate and Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder, which effectively reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and has an ability to absorb water.

BASF’s new system is based on the ability of cross-linked and dehydrated spheres to enter the upper layers of the epidermis and to absorb the water that evaporates from the deep dermis.

The spheres are comprised of two biopolymers: hyaluronic acid of low molecular weight (<40 kDa) and konjac, a polysaccharide of high molecular weight (> 200 kDa) with hygroscopic properties.

Cross-linking of both components forms small spheres which after drying, are transformed into active spheres.

According to the firm, the spheres in ex vivo tests have demonstrated better performances in comparison with the former generation.

The new spheres are able to absorb water 24 times more in weight and 17 times more in volume.

In addition, they exhibited a water retention capability which is 20% higher (in tubo gravimetric determination) as well as an enhanced thickness of the stratum corneum by 17% (ex vivo measurement).

BASF Beauty Creations division marketing global director Tony Jaillot said the firm’s new Ultra Filling Spheres have enhanced capability to swell and absorb water, which may help to fill in deep and superficial wrinkles while leaving a smoothed skin surface with long lasting hydration in an efficient manner.

"By making consumers’ wants and needs an essential starting point for the continuous development of new products and concepts BASF’s brand Care Creations™ helps its customers to successfully serve current consumer demands and anticipate upcoming trends. Care Creations™ as well as the communication concept "Inspired by life" clearly give voice to this commitment to be at the pulse of consumers and the markets, while expressing its strengths," Jaillot added.

The firm recommends that the spheres be used at 0.5-3.0 % in formulations, should be predispersed in the oily phase of the emulsion before creating the emulsion and should not be used with aqueous gel or emulsions in oily phase at less than 20%.