An estimated 80 percent of all people between the ages of 11 and 30 have acne outbreaks at some point in their lives [1]. Despite the strong demand for natural solutions, there are hardly any effective responses to date.
Based on new studies showing that an increased cutaneous and systemic oxidative stress is often involved [2] as a cause of acne, searchers from Serdex, a subsidiary of Seppic since January 2017, have screened various molecules from the Malagasy flora, a biodiversity reservoir that the company has been studying for several years.
Natural active ingredient
As a result of this research, Serdex has developed Subligana, a titrated extract of Harungana madagascariensis, a tree originated from the centre and East of Madagascar and renowned for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant benefits.
Subligana was especially designed to address skins with imperfections and spots and for those looking for a flawless complexion. “On the basis of scientific results, we have developed an original mechanism of action focusing on soothing and anti-oxidant effect to address acne-prone skins,” explains Virginie Anchartéchahar, R&D Manager for Serdex.
Also known as the dragon’s blood tree, orange-milk tree or haronga, Harungana madagascariensis is traditionally used in Madagascar and in the numerous African countries where it was introduced for its medicinal properties. Leaf decoctions are used against asthma and skin disorders and leaf juice is used for wound healing.
Subligana mechanism of action combines soothing effect (lipase inhibition, IL-10 and IL-12 regulation), antioxidant effect (protection against lipid peroxidation) and efficacy against Propionibacterium acnes.
An in-use test on teenagers presenting acne-prone skin showed a significant whiteheads reduction versus placebo after 28 days.
Sustainable supply chain
In line with Serdex previous actions in Madagascar, the entire supply chain has been sustainably designed. Harungana madagascariensis leaves are collected under good collecting practices in the high plateaus area in Madagascar to ensure a repeatable and reliable phytochemical composition.
Furthermore, Serdex has implemented a fair and equitable sharing of benefits under Nagoya Protocol.
Eventually, Subligana is listed in the Inventory of Existing Cosmetic Ingredients in China (IECIC) and is compliant to the Cosmos standard for natural and organic cosmetics.
