Beiersdorf invests in antimicrobial research with Syntopix

The international skin care company will pay Syntopix a research fee to develop new lab-based assays to help examine the effective delivery of active ingredients in order to maximise their bioavailability on skin.

Dr Stephen Jones, CEO of Syntopix, was quick to express his delight with working with Beiersdorf.

“Syntopix's wider work on skin disorders and oral health has given our team a deep understanding of factors affecting the topical efficacy of antimicrobials. Our assays will facilitate the development of new antimicrobial strategies to address this important challenge,”​ he explained.

Antimicrobial efficacy​

Antimicrobial efficacy on skin surfaces is influenced by specific restrictions that affect delivery and bioavailability of actives, for example release from the formulation or skin penetration.

With increasing interest in antimicrobials, current developments centre on compounds that can benefit in the treatment of acne, gingivitis, and body odour, Syntopix explained to CosmeticsDesign-Europe.com.

Dr. Heiner Max, head of Research Personal Care of Beiersdorf added: "As one of the world's leading cosmetics companies, which is involved in the development and manufacture of skin care products, Beiersdorf's expertise is closely aligned with that of Syntopix. Together we are in a strong position to work towards developing unique and effective products."​

​Second research agreement in 6 months​

It is the second time in the past six months that Syntopix has signed a deal to develop antimicrobial compounds for a personal care company.

In August last year, the research firm signed an exclusive deal with a leader in home and personal care which Jones described as an important market opportunity for effective antimicrobials, and one which is growing.