Biotechnology Startup Develops Animal-Free Protein For Cosmetic Industry

Biodesign startup Geltor known for its animal-free collagen ingredient has released a new product. 

Elastapure is the first 100 per cent vegan elastin which is a key ingredient in the cosmetic industry.

Elastin is a protein used in skincare that stimulates cell growth and helps skin maintain its elasticity.

“A key element of human skin, elastin brings the gift of elasticity through its unique ability as a protein to stretch and recoil,” the company wrote on its website. 

“Through Elastapure™, Geltor has unlocked the world’s only pure human elastin ingredient for topical skincare, available for the first time in unmatched purity and biocompatibility.”

Elastin that is commonly used for traditional consumer products is derived from animal sources. Geltor’s fermentation technology doesn’t require human or animal inputs to deliver the biocompatible alternative.

Geltor specialises in custom protein production for the skincare industry. The startup introduced its first product Collume - an animal-free collagen in 2018. In 2019 the company launched its second ingredient - HumaColl21. 

Both ingredients are human-identical collagens made using biotechnology. 

The company also partners with small individual beauty manufacturers and brands to develop custom proteins.

 “With the launch of Elastapure, Geltor continues to establish itself as the ingredient and innovation partner of choice for leading consumer brands,” Geltor co-founder and CEO Alex Lorestani said. 

“The response to our technology from customers and end-users alike has been energising. Whether through the purchase of an ‘off-the-shelf’ portfolio ingredient like Elastapure, or through Geltor’s custom services, we’ve been able to provide a seamless solution for brands wanting novel bioactives that align with their values. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see these partnerships give rise to products consumers can’t get enough of.” 

Lorestani admits that sourcing or manufacturing vegan proteins for use in skincare product formulations is challenging. 

He says it takes close to 12 months to bring a new protein from concept to commercial production.

Geltor plans to grow and commercialise its line of human-identical proteins and biocompatible active ingredients for beauty industry.