Beauty products that will change your life -- we promise!
GENE THERAPY
Scientists have discovered that our genes express themselves differently, depending on age and environment, and now they’re learning to manipulate them to keep us looking younger longer. Take Olay Professional Pro-X, a new range of anti-aging treatments. “We’re using breakthrough genomics tools to map the molecular fingerprint of young versus old skin,” says Mary Begovic Johnson, principal scientist for Olay at P&G Beauty. “We discovered that the skin’s barrier plays a fundamental role in the appearance of aged skin.” To strengthen it, Olay used a proprietary peptide that builds collagen and elastin. Another product based on genomic science is Lancôme’s Génifique Youth Activator, a self-adjusting formulation that changes gene activity and works on skin at any age.
SAFE HAVEN
Until recently, it was a choice: conventional anti-aging products (whose ingredients were impossible to pronounce, let alone identify) or organic skin-care products (which usually fell short in terms of efficacy). But a handful of beauty companies are creating a new paradigm: skin care that’s both free of synthetic ingredients and effective. Canadian line Consonant Body Organic Skincare infuses its formulations (all of which are pH-balanced) with super-hydrating olive, coconut, rosemary, aloe vera and jojoba oils. Cult product The Solution, an all-in-one moisturizer by New York-based Envision Beauty, is also making waves. “It’s packed with ingredients like goji berries, which contain antioxidants, proteins and nutrients that improve skin firmness and guard against environmental damage,” says founder Kimberly Snyder. Another high-performance organic brand is Intelligent Nutrients, developed by Aveda founder Horst Rechelbacher. Each product in the food-grade line — which includes skin, body, fragrance and nutraceutical products — contains a proprietary blend of antioxidant-rich black cumin, pumpkin, red grape, raspberry and cranberry seed oils.
'We’re using breakthrough genomics tools to map the molecular fingerprint of young versus old skin,' says Mary Begovic Johnson, principal scientist for Olay at P&G BeautyMore on the next page >>
