South Korea`s largest cosmetics firm Amorepacific Group plans to bring a new breakthrough on skin health through the research of skin microbiome in partnership with global functional ingredient supplier Givaudan.

Amorepacific said on Monday it signed a joint research agreement with Givaudan’s European Creative Center located in Argenteuil, France in the field of skin microbiome. The agreement follows the industry’s growing attention to potential medical or cosmetic applications of the human microbiome, a complex ecosystem of millions of microbes inhabiting on the skin or in the gut.

The skin microbiome is at the forefront of industry topics regarding skin care with research focusing on the important role in skin barrier health.

The two companies will study skin microbiome samples from Korean and French women to find out how the skin can be kept healthy. Researchers from Amorepacific’s technology institute and Givaudan Active Beauty’s applied microbiome research center will be working on this project.

Founded in 1895, Givaudan is the global leader in the creation of flavors, fragrances and functional ingredients. Headquartered in Switzerland with local presence in over 100 locations, the company has spearheaded skin microbiome research for over 15 years.

Amorepacific’s technology institute has conducted research involving skin, scalp and hair health related to microbiology since 1997. In 2008, the company launched its IOPE brand based on results from its skin microbiome research.

In 2017, the company’s study results on the relation between the scalp and skin microbiome were published in scientific journal Experimental Dermatology.

By Lee Yoon-jae and Minu Kim

[ⓒ Pulse by Maeil Business Newspaper & mk.co.kr, All rights reserved]