Targeted for dry and dehydrated skin types, Baptise H2O ultra-hydrating water gel is available in New Zealand, Australia, UK, US, China, Japan, Singapore, and Malaysia.
Founder and CEO, Elizabeth Barbalich said: “These (water gels) are a huge trend in the skin care world right now. They have a weightless formulation that feels fresh and light on the skin, while also intensely hydrating.”
While there are many water gels already in the market, Barbalich told CosmeticsDesign-Asia she wanted to create a water gel that was 100% natural, vegetarian and had a focus on clean, New Zealand ingredients.
Plant power
The functional ingredients are derived from plant origins, including hyaluronic acid.
Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the body and known for its moisture-retaining properties by drawing moisture into the skin and keeping it hydrated.
However hyaluronic acid levels decrease as we age, leaving the skin dry and prone to wrinkles.
In skin care products, hyaluronic acid is still commonly sourced from animal origins, however many natural skin care brands are now utilising plant-based hyaluronic acid in their formulations, derived from microbial fermentation.
Barbalich said its hyaluronic acid is derived from the fermentation of a bacterium found in soil and roots.
Another functional ingredient is manuka honey, which Barbalich said has natural humectant properties and ability to also draw moisture to the skin. “It also has antibacterial properties which help to resolve blemishes.”
It also contains Mamaku black fern for cell renewal and cell turnover, Harakeke gel for instant moisture to the skin, and hibiscus flower extract, which contains organic pyruvic acid, a natural astringent that lifts dead skin cells to brighten and freshen complexion.
All the ingredients are sourced from sustainable growers in New Zealand.
Science proven
The product was used in a clinical trial consisting of 10 women, aged 38 to 58. It was applied on the subjects’ skin and assessed at 12, 24 and 48 hours.
The gel was shown to increase skin hydration by 52% after 24 hours of application.
The study was conducted by Dermatest Australia, which has been acquired by Eurofins, a cosmetic and personal care testing company.
The firm recommends applying the water gel twice daily (morning and night).