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Exsymol's collaboration with CriBioM (C2VN's technology platform, a member of Carnot STAR) represents a major strategic step forward, reinforcing Exsymol's role as a benchmark silicon expert.
Exsymol and Carnot STAR: a collaboration of excellence to advance the science of silicon in cosmetics
For several decades, Exsymol has been the leader in silicon research applied to cosmetics, developing innovative active ingredients that fully exploit the biological potential of this key element. This scientific commitment is based on an in-depth understanding of the cellular mechanisms and benefits of silicon on the skin. In this quest for innovation, Exsymol's collaboration with CriBioM*(a C2VN* technology platform and Carnot STAR member unit) represents a major strategic step forward, reinforcing Exsymol's role as a benchmark silicon expert.
Exsymol: A silicon expert for over 50 years
Founded in 1972 and based in Monaco, Exsymol has been manufacturing cosmetic active ingredients for over five decades. Its flagship range, silanols, is based on organic silicon actives, a biomimetic of the mineral form naturally present in the form of orthosilicic acid (OSA). Historically, Exsymol has focused its research on monomethyltrisilanol (MTS), initially developed for the pharmaceutical industry before being adopted in cosmetics and nutrition.
Exsymol thus adds value to silanols, silicon-based ingredients complexed with molecules of interest (vitamins, hyaluronic acid...), optimizing their biological activity and stability. Contrary to the empirically reported effects of silicon in scientific literature, Exsymol has made the strategic choice to invest in fundamental research to better understand the mechanisms of action of this essential element.
A scientific collaboration serving innovation
At a meeting organized by the Innov'Alliance cluster, the CriBioM platform highlighted the value of OMICS techniques (transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) for analyzing the biological effects of a stress, a pathology or an ingredient in a global, non-targeted way.
Exsymol researchers immediately saw the opportunity to apply these innovative approaches to the study of silicon's effects on the skin. This led to a collaboration between Exsymol and CriBioM in June 2023, marking a new stage in the understanding of silicon in cosmetics.
In-depth research for new perspectives
Exsymol chose to evaluate the impact of different forms of silicon on gene expression in primary human fibroblasts (skin dermis cells). This experiment, followed by in-depth data analysis, took almost a year to complete. Although interpretation of the results will continue throughout 2025, the initial conclusions are already promising:
- Identification of molecular targets that may explain the effects of silicon already observed in clinical and preclinical studies;
- Highlighting of new signalling pathways activated by different forms of silicon, thus opening up new research prospects.
Several publications of articles are planned, revealing new effects of silicon to the scientific community. In addition, the joint participation of CriBioM and Exsymol in an international scientific congress to present the value of OMICS techniques in the innovation and repositioning of active ingredients.
By combining historical expertise and cutting-edge technologies provided by the Institut Carnot STAR units, Exsymol reaffirms its position as a pioneer in the study of silicon in the dermo-cosmetic field.
*CriBioM = Marseille Biological Screening
*C2VN = Cardiovascular and Nutrition Research Center