Developments and advancements in epigenetic skincare are redefining our search for beauty that is skin deep. In the past five years, beauty brands like Biologique Recherche, Augustinus Bader, Noble Panacea have been utilizing data on genetics to better understand skin aging at the cellular level. As I read through the complex product literature from labels boasting this state-of-the-art approach to skincare, one phrase stood out the most: epigenetics has cracked the code to skin aging.
Following the success of its red light therapy wand and wonder supplements, LYMA Skin proposes that with only a serum and face cream, we can “address why we age” instead of trying to fight the signs of aging. A simple yet efficacious skincare regimen developed by genetics, LYMA Skin is formulated with 80 key active ingredients that interrupt the mechanism of skin aging. These actives work to: eradicate dead skin cells, improve our microbiome environment, boost mitochondrial energization, accelerate skin renewal, and significantly increase hydration.
According to Dr. Greame Glass PhD, a plastic surgeon and educator who helped to develop the LYMA Laser, “The fact is topical skincare products are formulated to feel good, to look good and smell good in that order. With LYMA Skin, we sought to do things differently and we succeeded.” The Serum and Cream are beautifully packaged in hammered copper vessels which may be refilled. Unlike other skincare products, formulations are evidently fragrance-free and almost smell like medicine. High concentration of actives also lend a distinct color to both the serum and cream. I was honestly hesitant about starting with the LYMA Skin protocol given its scent, consistency and color. But three straight weeks into this simple, easy and effective routine, skin was visibility more radiant. Skin texture, including the appearance of fine lines and scars, had diminished. I’ve been fascinated with skincare epigenetics since.
When Skin Diligent, a young, independent and cutting edge, beauty brand first spoke about “skin longevity,” I was all ears. “We can improve skin biological aging and prevent premature aging compared to its chronological age. This is possible thanks to the science of epigenetics and a better understanding of our cells. It’s not about anti-aging. We can’t stop aging, but we can help to prevent premature aging and age well.”
Products by Skin Diligent include the Cellular Hydration Serum, which was formulated with a patented ingredient that activates skin regeneration. The same key ingredient acts on skin’s Vitamin D receptors, protecting from free radicals. It also regulates cellular replication sans the damaging UV rays from sun exposure.
In developing its products, Skin Diligent works with Dr. Barbara Broadway, the president of the Society of Cosmetic Formulations. She comments: “Skin biohacking goes beyond traditional skin care approaches. It can include techniques that are not typically used in skincare such as light therapy, micro-current devices, and other specialized equipment. Using an individual’s genetics/epigenetics and or data from wearable devices to guide individuals to changes in lifestyle and in the products they use, with the aim of improving skin health, is all part of the skin biohacking revolution.” She clarifies that skin biohacking and traditional skincare routines both have their merits. “Everyone benefits from a good skincare regimen. The far thinking people who want to stay looking young and healthy their whole life span will do well to join the skin biohacking cohort for longer term benefits.”
Tule Park, who founded and envisioned Skin Diligent as a holistic, epigenetic skincare brand emphasizes that when it comes to biohacking skincare, understanding our bodies in relation to nutrition, stress and toxins in the environment is key. “Skin is a reflection of what’s happening inside of our body. It is not an isolated organ,” she points out. “Factors like stress, trauma, nutrition, gut dysbiosis, and others all play key roles in how our skin performs. Because our skin is an external organ, understanding how external factors like UV and pollution interact with the body is also key.”
SickScience is the brainchild of two female molecular scientists, Polen Koçak, PhD and Merve Yildirim, PhD. Since inception, the biotech research company has remained focused on developing regenerative therapies for cancer treatments, hair growth, and skin health. Through the expertise of its founders in regenerative medicine and cancer research, SickScience has introduced the game-changing, proprietary NX35™ Technology. Koçak explains: “NX35 Technology delivers specific coded messages directly to the cells, instructing them to regenerate. This means that instead of masking or temporarily improving skin’s appearance, NX35 can actually address underlying skin issues at their source, leading to more significant and long-lasting results.”
According to co-founder Yildirim, the research and development of NX35 was initially intended for cancer treatments and regenerative medicine. She elaborates, “The cosmetic applications weren’t at the forefront of our minds. However, as we developed technologies and observed their potential in regenerative medicine, it became clear that these innovations could revolutionize the beauty industry as well.” In February of 2024, SickScience finally launched its inaugural beauty product, the ShapeShift V-Line Jaw Defining Serum.
Utilizing the brand’s NX35 Technology, the gel-serum “instructs cells to naturally release lipid droplets or fat reserved to reveal a more sculpted, contoured and lifted under-jaw.” The team at SkinScience records that results are typically visible within four weeks of consistent use. Compared to other skin firming products out in the market today, the ShapeShift V-Line Jaw Defining Serum harnesses NX35’s ability to communicate, restore, and ultimately repair cells.
Asked about skin biohacking and the traction it has been gaining in the beauty space, Yildirim opines: “In the beauty industry, it’s understandable for critics to be cautious and view new entries as trends, especially with how rapidly new fads can come and go. NX35 Technology stands out because it’s deeply rooted in biotechnology and scientific validation. It’s not about catching the consumer’s eye with flashy, ephemeral products; it’s about using research-backed methods to create effective solutions that offer genuine improvements in skin health.”