The EffiSense collection of botanical actives by Croda Beauty redefines how we think about plant-based ingredients. It moves beyond traditional perceptions of botanicals by combining high natural content, targeted performance, energy-efficient manufacturing technologies, and engaging storytelling opportunities in line with major and emerging beauty trends.
Going one step further, a selection of our botanical actives also demonstrates that nature’s resources can deliver measurable efficacy while supporting a more responsible model of beauty, through meaningful sourcing. Upcycling within the EffiSense range reflects this shift. As part of the circular beauty movement, it extends the life of existing materials, limits waste and optimises resource use.
By sourcing upcycled raw materials from other process or other industries to produce performing botanicals, Croda Beauty transforms what was once considered waste into high-value cosmetic ingredients. This approach directly answers consumer expectations for responsible, purpose-driven beauty – particularly among Gen Z, who are driving the transition from overconsumption to circular innovation – and provides formulators with ingredients that combine performance, naturality, reliability and sustainability, at a competitive price.
Through upcycling, Croda Beauty create innovative skin care solutions from what nature already provides, proving that performance and responsibility can coexist within the same formulation philosophy. Below, we offer an exclusive selection of three ingredients that perfectly embody this approach.
Cytokalmine™ EC – The hyperactive natural concentrate
Designed for sensitive skins, Cytokalmine™ EC breaks the cascade mechanism of the inflammatory response.
- Reduces chronic inflammation: production of IL8 inhibited by 37% at 40 µg/ml.
- Reduces the production of free radicals: production of ROS reduced by 70% at just 25 µg/ml.
Quantified in punicalagin, this ingredient derived from pomegranate pericarps is a valued ally for formulations that promote skin well-being by reducing irritation, sensitivity and redness.
Cytokalmine™ EC is produced with upcycled pericarp from juice production in France, obtained through a close and long-standing partnership with a family-run farm. These fruits are harvested and pressed on the farm, minimising transportation-related carbon emissions, supporting a family-run business, and ensuring a sustainable supply chain. Furthermore, the ingredient is preservative-free and COSMOS organic certified.
Phytessence™ Pink Pomelo EC – Skin sparkling with life
Phytessence™ Pink Pomelo EC is the ideal natural active ingredient for restoring radiance, as it has been shown in vivo to accelerate this cell renewal.
- Cycle reduction of 3.2 days, at 3% in aqueous solution compared to control.
- Acceleration of cell renewal of 13.7%, at 3% in aqueous solution compared to control.
- Results visible on 87% of volunteers.
It therefore helps to revive the complexion’s radiance by eliminating skin irregularities often associated with ageing, fatigue or stress. This botanical active is perfect for riding the wave of the ‘glass skin’ trend, capitalising on grapefruit's reputation as an anti-dullness ingredient rich in AHAs, flavonoids and sugars.
Phytessence™ Pink Pomelo EC is produced with upcycled fruit feedstock from the production of juices and flavoured waters in France. These fruits are harvested from grapefruit trees growing in immediate proximity to the juice production site, minimising transportation-related carbon emissions, supporting local communities, and ensuring a sustainable supply chain. Furthermore, the ingredient is preservative-free and COSMOS organic certified.
Phytessence™ Peach Flower – the anti-asphyxia solution
Phytessence™ Peach Flower is designed to be a natural protective solution against pollution which can disrupt many defence mechanisms in our skin and cause premature ageing. It protects cells against oxidative stress, prevents premature biological ageing associated with pollution, and promotes cell survival when exposed to atmospheric pollutants.
- Reduces epidermal oxidation by -31% at 5% in aqueous solution compared to control.
- Prevents cellular asphyxia by -64% at 2.5% in aqueous solution compared to control.
It’s the ideal active ingredient with a high natural content for cosmetics providing environmental protection and preventing skin damage due to pollution, as part of climate-smart formulations.
Phytessence™ Peach Flower is produced with upcycled flowers from the production of fruits. The feedstock is collected during the thinning of flowers on peach trees, a traditional technique used to allow better fruit ripening.
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