BASF introduces Floragenist floral active ingredients for skin care

BASF’s Personal Care business has introduced Floragenist, a range of floral active ingredients developed to address consumer demand for natural beauty with performance supported by scientific studies. Floragenist Rose and Floragenist Blossom are derived from Damask Rose (Rosa damascena) and Bitter Orange blossom (Citrus aurantium var. amara), respectively, and are sourced from Morocco.

BASF said the ingredients are designed to enhance skin radiance and support the skin’s ability to adapt to daily stress. The botanicals are sourced with traceability and responsible sourcing practices.

BASF said the development of Floragenist combines its AquaGenesis extraction technology with epigenetic science. AquaGenesis uses coconut water as a natural solvent to extract bioactive compounds without aggressive solvents. According to BASF, the technology preserves phytochemicals while increasing the concentration of key active molecules. Compared with conventional extraction methods, it delivers enhanced levels of flavonoids for skin care applications.

BASF researchers combined the extraction technology with epigenetic science to develop flower extracts that support the epidermis.

Floragenist Rose is designed to enhance skin radiance by supporting the skin’s expression of “surface optics” proteins. BASF said these proteins are involved in maintaining skin structure and light-reflecting properties, supporting skin cohesion and visible luminosity. Floragenist Rose also addresses the effects of oxidative stress and supports an even-looking complexion. Clinical studies using VISIA imaging reported a 2.7-fold improvement in the appearance of skin luminosity and a 22 per cent decrease in redness at a concentration of 0.4 per cent of the ingredient compared with the placebo group.

Floragenist Blossom is designed to support the skin’s adaptive capacity in response to environmental and lifestyle-related stress. BASF said it supports skin resilience by helping the skin express key skin integrity proteins. This contributes to maintaining the skin’s natural barrier function, improving the appearance of epidermal cohesion and helping the skin cope with external stressors such as mechanical stress, over-cleansing and microbial imbalance. An in vivo study found that harsh cleansing of skin pre-treated with 0.1 per cent Floragenist Blossom for 28 days resulted in 52 per cent lower variation in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) than placebo.

BASF said the development of the Floragenist range is guided by the principles of its Responsibly Active programme for cosmetic bioactives, which focuses on transparency, ethical conduct and environmental responsibility. The ingredients are derived from certified organically cultivated Damask Rose and Bitter Orange, hand harvested in Morocco and traceable to the source. BASF said the Damask Rose originates from a supply chain verified against a sustainable sourcing standard, supporting agricultural practices and creating impacts for local communities.