Helix BioMedix announces anti-wrinkle study results
12-week consumer product test that compared the company's
anti-wrinkle peptide, HB168, with Renova, a currently marketed FDA
approved product. The study was conducted by DermDx, an
independent, physician-run centre for dermatology. The company
claims the peptide demonstrated equivalence to Renova without the
irritation associated with such products, writes Louise
Sheridan.
Helix BioMedix claims HB168 reduced the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes in 69 per cent of the subjects, with a marked or moderate improvement in 35 per cent of the subjects. These results compared favorably, the company said, with the results experienced by those using Renova: 69 percent showed improvement and 27 per cent showed marked or moderate improvement.
That HB168 produced these results without causing irritation is of significance, the company stated, as irritation is a major issue in the skin care industry. For example, Renova states on its label that it has been shown to cause such adverse reactions as peeling, redness and dry skin. More than 25 per cent of the study participants commented on irritation caused by the use of Renova but no subjects reported any of these effects while using the HB168 peptide, the company claims. The subjects of the trial ranged in age from 40 to 78 (mean age 56).
"These results further validate the company's technology in the application of cost effective Helix BioMedix peptides for skin care products," stated Stephen Beatty, President & CEO. "Helix continues to build its successful skin care programme, this being the fourth successful human panel study. The anti-wrinkle skin care market is approximately a $2 billion (€1.67 million) a year market and is estimated to grow 16 per cent each year. We expect the use of peptides to help fuel that growth. This peptide is one of several that we are currently developing, including those with application in acne care, oral care, and deodorant."
Many major cosmetics companies recognise the benefits of peptides and are beginning to use them in skin care product lines. Director of Business Development, David Drajeske said: "Helix has ongoing discussions with several companies, which have been awaiting these results since we released our preliminary findings of this study. This peptide may enable exciting new products for companies that specialise in skin care and wrinkle reduction."
The study's results were graded by a five member independent panel, including a dermatologist and a plastic surgeon. All investigators rated the peptide equal to or more effective than Renova cream with regard to therapy for fine lines and wrinkles about the eye. Director of DermDx, Dr Stephen Schleicher said: "Based on these findings, the HB168 peptide shows promise as a topical anti-ageing compound."
Helix BioMedix is an early-stage biotechnology company that is currently focused on the development of selected peptides as pharmaceutical agents for use as topical anti-infectives and in wound healing. Non-pharmaceutical applications being pursued by Helix BioMedix include adjuvants for cosmetics/cosmeceuticals, personal care, plant health, animal health and wide-spectrum biocides.
