In the past manufacturers faced the challenge of persuading consumers to use nutricosmetics, but as times change and more ingredient suppliers develop new products, Monteloeder believes it will have more of a say, particularly in skin care.
Of course this could be put down to the fact that the Spanish firm has a new natural oral nutricosmetic formulation called Melagenol on the market; but it does come with science to back it up.
In a recent study performed at the University Miguel Hernandez in Elche, Spain, it was shown to inhibit melanin production in melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, in a dose-response manner – thus preventing the appearance of dark spots on the skin.
Skin lightening
Melagenol is designed as an alternative to skin lightening creams and lotions, which can cause localised discoloured skin patches.
When taken orally as a dietary supplement, Melagenol protects the whole body from the appearance of unwanted marks, according to Monteloeder, who believes the new product could change the stakes.
“Sales of skin lightening products will be worth about US$20 billion by 2018 but the topical products on the market today often cause as many problems as they solve,” says Fernando Cartagena, Director of Monteloeder.
“Melagenol has none of these issues. It simply offers highly effective skin-lightening without side effects, which means it is ideal for both general skin whitening and the treatment of unwanted dark patches on the skin.”
Beauty from within
The Spanish firm’s boss believes that with Melagenol, it is now possible for beauty companies to create products that offer consumers lighter skin ‘from within.’
The new ingredient works by influencing the different pathways involved in the synthesis of melanin.
Thanks to its relatively low required dosage (300-500mg daily), it can be easily applied in a range of orally consumed dietary supplement products, including capsules, effervescent tablets, sachets and candy.