Protected by law: what are patented molecules

“A unique patented molecule” – such proud statements we hear more and more often in cosmetics advertising. What is behind these words? And what do we actually benefit from it?

Patented molecules: what is it

Proxylan, LR 2412, Philoxan – these words are more like spells of wizards from Hogwarts. However, if some alchemist managed to unravel the active substance of the elixir of youth, calculate the formula of living water or get a crystal of the philosopher’s stone, he would also patent his discovery.

Behind the phrase “patented molecule” is a real act of creation, a revolution, a “big bang”, because a substance is being created that does not exist in nature.

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Where do molecules with superpowers come from?

Before a new substance can be discovered and stabilized, years of painstaking work, research, testing, trial and error pass. This is followed by a serious work to collect the evidence base. Questions to be answered:

  • why the created molecule is unique and valuable;

  • Is it completely safe for humans?

    Laboratories L’Oréal, perhaps one of the leaders in the number of patents in the cosmetics industry.

The words “patented molecule” on the packaging of a cream with promising characteristics mean that no other manufacturer will give us a similar effect. Even if the formula is solved (and in modern conditions this is an easy task), no one else has the right to synthesize a new substance.

When we perform the usual beauty ritual late in the evening or in the morning, then, of course, we do not think about people who puzzled over the composition of a skin-friendly product in a jar, their sorrows, dreams and discoveries. But it was precisely the simplicity of our routine procedure that was their goal.

Proxylan both starts the process of formation of new cells, and manages to “cheer up” and rejuvenate the old ones.

Laboratories L’Oréal – one of the leaders in the number of patents in the cosmetics industry. More than 100 years ago, the company was founded by a chemist who, in his own kitchen, developed the first hair dye that was much safer and more enjoyable to use than the alternatives of the time.

L’Oréal’s paint was followed by the first shampoo and sunscreen, and to date, a huge number of innovations have been registered.

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Popular molecules in cosmetics

Proxylan

It is a hybrid of protein (“pro” – from the word “protein”) and wood sugar – xylose monosaccharide (“xylan”), which is extracted from beech bark. Proxylan is ideally integrated into the intercellular matrix, consisting of a “jelly” of similar proteoglycans (compounds of proteins and saccharides), and maintains the desired level of moisture (hyaluronic acid is located in the same matrix), and also synthesizes collagen and elastin.

Proxylan is a hybrid of protein and wood sugar, the monosaccharide xylose, which is extracted from beech bark.

Proxylan starts the process of formation of new cells and “invigorates” the old ones.

Absolue Precious Cells Night Revitalizing Mask, Lancôme

The richest formula of the product includes proxylan, which gives a powerful anti-aging effect and makes the skin more elastic. Together with it, soy proteins, shea butter, Damascus rose extract, adenosine, which energizes cells, work.

Anti-aging gel for men Force Supreme Gel, Biotherm

Especially for men – a convenient and effective anti-aging remedy. The gel, which absorbs instantly, combines the power of proxylan and seaweed extracts. The skin is smoothed, moisturized, younger.

LR 2412

This is the patent name of a derivative of jasmonic acid, which is called a plant hormone. In nature, she tells the trees when to shed their leaves, heals damage. Scientists have tried to unravel its action and use it for the benefit of man.

The molecule is protected by 20 (!) patents. It is able to penetrate into the deepest layers of the skin and start recovery processes.

Multiactive face cream Visionnaire, Lancôme

The entire Visionnaire line is built around the amazing LR 2412 molecule. And, according to the manufacturer, it was created for perfectionists who need an uncompromising result.

Phylloxan

Scientists are interested in the process of transformation of a liquid body into a gel-like substance, which, in particular, occurs in the glass business. As a result, phylloxan was born. Getting into the damaged hair, the molecule gels, expands, filling voids and damage, increases the natural volume.

Balm conditioner Elseve “Fibrology”, L’Oréal Paris

Caring lipids (oils) nourish the scalp, and phylloxan fills and thickens the hair shaft, making the hair thick. All products of the Fibrology line for thinning hair contain this molecule.

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