'SupadElixir's Bio-Active Peptides' Open a New Chapter [Translation Version]
Peptides have been identified as one of the most noteworthy ingredients in the beauty market this year. As consumer interest in proven efficacy increases, so does the interest in methods of delivering active ingredients. SupadElixir, a company dedicated to helping restore skin and body health through "Bio-Active Peptides" that penetrate deep into the skin and activate cell physiological processes, is continuing its research efforts. On the 13th, we met with Han Jang-hee, the CEO of SupadElixir, at their Seoul office.
SupadElixir?
> SupadElixir is an innovative company that researches and develops cosmetics, medical devices, and new drug materials utilizing short peptides that can easily penetrate various cells and epithelial tissues, including the skin. By using Bio-Active Peptides (physiologically active peptides), they develop products and ingredients that help maintain a beautiful and healthy life simply by application.
Why did you focus on peptides?
> Because I am confident that peptides are the future of bio-materials.
Currently, protein materials such as recombinant proteins and antibodies are receiving attention in the bio-market.
However, proteins are challenging to manufacture, store, and use, making them difficult to apply in regulating biological functions.
Additionally, large protein molecules have very low cell penetration, making it difficult for them to enter cells, where most target molecules are located, to exhibit their effects.
Through my 20+ years of academic research and business experience, I have confirmed that "ultra-low molecular peptides" with high cell penetration could replace protein materials. Ultra-low molecular peptides capitalize on the advantages of small molecules and proteins while overcoming their disadvantages, making them a highly promising material.
What are 'ultra-low molecular peptides'?
> Peptides are short chains of amino acids and can be considered fragments of proteins. Peptides range from two to fifty amino acids, but ultra-low molecular peptides (short peptides) consist of just two to five amino acids. In terms of molecular weight, they are substances smaller than 500 Daltons, which gives them excellent cell absorption properties.
What is the strength of SupadElixir?
> Our strength lies in our technique and ability to develop ultra-low molecular peptides that can regulate the functions of numerous proteins beneficial to the human body. We possess foundational "platform technology," which allows us to produce peptides with a wide range of benefits, rather than creating just specific material. As we enter an era where reversing aging is becoming a possibility, we believe our technology is well-positioned to meet the demands of the times.
What do you focus on when developing new materials and products?
> Rather than focusing on immediate results that temporarily beautify the skin, we prioritize sustainability by regulating the skin's natural functions to maintain its health.
We are also paying attention to the development of new materials that inhibit or delay the aging of skin and other organs.
What challenges arise during peptide development?
> New substances or materials face several barriers before they become mainstream, beyond just cost. The major challenge is the public’s insufficient understanding of the technology. For instance, fish collagen, which is now popularized, is a high-molecular peptide derived by cutting long collagen chains. In contrast, SupadElixir's Bio-Active Peptides are active ingredients that deliver signals to cells to activate them. The functional areas differ, but many people do not know this, so there’s a need for awareness improvement.
There are many patents. What is your flagship product?
> Our representative material is a peptide called BINTERIN™, an SLiM peptide (Short Linear Motif peptide) having efficacies such as anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and anti-cancer properties. It effectively regulates excessive inflammatory responses, preventing them from becoming chronic. It also activates the p53 protein, known as the "anti-cancer protein," providing anti-cancer benefits. Additionally, it is highly effective in removing "zombie cells" that accumulate in the body during aging. This peptide has received positive feedback when applied to acne treatments, hair loss products, and skin aging solutions.
Do you sell any branded products apart from raw material development?
> Yes, we have a skincare brand called HAHN'S PEPTIDE, which applies our specialized ingredients to address various skin concerns. Although we sell online, many products require consultation, so they are primarily used in aesthetics and direct sales channels. Recently, we've also stored at the Cosmol Myeong-dong store. However, we are more focused on expanding into overseas markets than domestic sales.
You were recently selected as one of the Top 5 finalists for the 'Estée Lauder NIV (New Incubation Ventures) BRKTHRU VOICES Prize' at in-cosmetics Global. How do you feel, and what do you expect from this recognition?
> We are filled with confidence knowing that we have been recognized as a company with innovative platform technology by a leading global innovator. During the exhibition, we attracted interest from numerous companies, including Estée Lauder, especially regarding our new ingredient, VAMTOXIN™. VAMTOXIN™ helps improve wrinkles by temporarily regulating the function of VAMP2, which is involved in neurotransmitter secretion. It’s like an "Applied Botox" that can be applied to the skin rather than injected, offering a similar effect to Botox. Going forward, we aim to continue developing innovative materials that don’t exist yet and contribute to the global cosmetics industry’s growth.
You’re focused on entering overseas markets. Which countries are your key targets?
> We primarily export to the U.S., European countries, China, and Southeast Asia. In the U.S. and Europe, there’s a high demand for anti-aging products like wrinkle care, as well as soothing ingredients for managing acne, atopic dermatitis, and erythema. The market for slimming ingredients, such as those targeting fat reduction and stretch marks, is also expanding. In Southeast Asia, there’s a relatively higher demand for brightening ingredients, in addition to anti-aging products.
How far do you think peptides can expand in the beauty industry?
> Collagen peptides, which are currently the most well-known in the beauty industry, are more of a functional ingredient that complements efficacy rather than an active material with physiological regulatory functions. In the future, I expect active ingredients that provide tangible improvements to skin health will gain more attention than functional ingredients.
The ultra-low molecular peptides developed by SupadElixir are Bio-Active Peptides, which are bioactive materials that regulate the functions of various organs, including the skin. Their potential extends beyond beauty to anti-aging and even reversing aging, with vast opportunities for growth.
Are there any newly developed or recently launched peptide products (ingredients)?
> We have developed several peptide ingredients, including SENOLIN, which removes zombie cells; RETINOGIN, a retinol alternative; VAMTOXIN, a botulinum toxin-like ingredient; and VITADIN, a peptide that facilitates vitamin D signaling. Currently, we are focusing on developing materials that supplement proteins lost due to aging and activate anti-aging proteins like Sirtuin.
What is SupadElixir's vision?
> Our vision is to continuously develop innovative peptide bioactive ingredients that lead the future, enhance the competitiveness of the cosmetics industry, and position ourselves as a leader in anti-aging and reversing aging by dedicating our efforts to solving the challenges of aging and disease.
Beautynury: https://www.beautynury.com/news/view/104647/cat/10
