OVSCC March Meeting

Topic: Natural Antimicrobials and the Beauty Microbiome: Functional Applications of the Skin Microflorae in Cosmetics Topic

Consumer and Regulatory pressures are changing the face how people seek to preserve products, not just in cosmetics but in markets ranging from home goods to fertilizers. Concurrently, research into the skin’s microbiome is advancing at an amazing pace. A brief review of the evolving market pressures will be presented and discuss how the existing technologies including emerging preservatives and “non-preservative” approaches are being applied. A detailed focus will be given to the skin’s microbiome and what is known about how current preservatives affect it. Specifically referencing data on Histone Deacetylases (HDAC), which support commensal microflora and barrier function, defending from pathogens HDAC supports healthy skin via gene transcription regulation, influencing DNA damage responses. An overview of 16S ribosomal RNA metagenomic analysis will be presented, focusing on the influence of topical preparations on composition of the microbiome.

Bio: Durant Scholz, President and founder of Active Concepts, LLC has a degree in Biochemistry from University of Massachusetts at Amherst. His career began as a Fabergé chemist. Following tenure in Clinique’s Skin Care department at Estée Lauder, Durant became Technical Marketing Director at Brooks Industries, managing domestic and international marketing, sales, and product development. In 2000, Durant founded Active Concepts, a multinational company with facilities in Lincolnton, N.C., Milan, Italy, and Kaohsiung, Taiwan.