Fenchem research shows low molecular weight HA is more effective

By Simon Pitman

- Last updated on GMT

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China-based ingredients provider Fenchem says the anti-aging ingredient hyaluronic acid (HA) is more effective at low molecular weight (LMW).

The company says it conducted in vitro studies on LMW HA to determine the penetration capacity and water holding ability compared with conventional ingredients of a higher molecular weight.

Fenchem says the results showed that the LMW HA showed clear signs of penetrating the skin more easily and also has a higher water retaining capacity, qualities that give greater anti-aging efficacy.

LMW hyularonic acid vs. standard

The study was carried out using a cream with 0.05 percent of either LMW HA or standard HA. Using female volunteers, one side a of the women’s face was treated with a placebo and one side with the LMW HA or HA.

After two months of treatment, the elasticity and smoothness of the face was said to show visibly better results on the side treated with the LMW HA, than the HA.

Outstanding moisturising ability

Hyaluronic Acid has become the darling of the anti-aging world in recent years, thanks to mucopolysaccharide, which provides outstanding moisturising properties.

Likewise, it also targets fine lines and wrinkles and improves the general health of skin because it tackles free radicals and improves skin blood microcirculation and nutrient absorption.

Fenchem says that its latest study into the effects of LMW HA is the culmination of a series of in vivo​ and in vitro​ studies indicating that it and Super Low Molecular Weight (SLMW) HA are more effective for anti-aging formulations because of their improved penetrative properties.

Extensive range of HAs

Currently the company markets HyaMax sodim hyaluronate is available in a range of molecular weights, from 8,000 Da to 2.0 million Da, which in turn target a range of different skin care applications.

The company says that the range has proved to be particularly popular in the US market, where it commands a 40 per cent share of the market.

In December Fenchem said it will continue its expansion into cosmetics ingredients, having already already anounced a 35 per cent increase in its annual revenue.

The industry-leading growth comes off the back of its expansion into the cosmetics field this year, when the company stated it was building on cross-over ingredients for its food and nutritional division.

In contrast with many companies in the manufacturing supply segment, it is currently in the process of expanding its production and personnel to help meet increased demand, which is also being fed by an expansion of its pet food ingredients.

Increased workforce by 30 per cent

The workforce has increased by about 30 per cent at both its Nanjing headquarters and its US branch, which it opened in California last year, according to the company.

The new positions have been mainly created in the areas of research and development, quality control and sales.

As well as China and the US, the company also has a European representative branch in Norway, which forms part of plans to maximise its geographical representation.

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