Scientific validation
“I set out to establish a new global benchmark for independent proof of the efficacy of natural formulations. My background in science has led me to a robust circular approach to scientific validation using the gold standard – in-vitro testing on human skin cells – supporting these studies with clinical and in-vivo consumer trials.”
Elizabeth Barbalich, Antipodes founder & CEO
What role does science play in natural skincare products?
Antipodes is a trailblazer in high-performance natural skincare. With a legacy spanning twenty years, our research, testing, and results outperform our peers. Our formulations are engineered from nature and undergo rigorous third-party testing for scientific validation. We do not pay consumers for positive reviews!
We are one of the very few natural beauty brands globally who undertake in-vitro testing of our end formulations. Working alongside scientific experts is traditionally the domain of large corporations, but we have achieved this – working with New Zealand’s best scientific minds to help elevate product textures, and enhance absorption and hydration levels, to deliver formulations that contribute towards healthier-looking skin.
In-vitro investigations: our unique difference
Our independent third-party in-vitro investigations measure how well our formulations support Type 1 Collagen production in human skin cells – compared to a placebo.
Here’s how it works: In a controlled laboratory setting, human fibroblast cells (the ones responsible for making Type 1 Collagen) are grown in a petri dish. Once they reach a certain level, we introduce a tiny amount of our formulation – just 1/200th of a gram per millilitre of cells. Scientists then measure how much extra collagen is produced beyond what the cells naturally generate on their own. The results show how our formulation helps to stimulate collagen synthesis in these controlled conditions.
While applying products to the skin may lead to some absorption, measuring exactly how much reaches deeper layers is scientifically complex. Factors like skin health, microbiome balance, and barrier strength all play a role.
Our findings demonstrate the potential of our formulations to support the skin’s natural processes under optimal conditions. However, this does not directly measure changes in skin structure or function.
PRECISE
In-vitro testing takes place in a laboratory where factors such as temperature, humidity, and light exposure can be carefully regulated.
ACCURATE
Our natural skincare products are subject to robust scientific methodologies in a controlled environment, conducted by an independent laboratory.
OBJECTIVE
Product names are not used for the study, so it’s completely blind; and there are no human variables to influence results.
PRECISE
In-vitro testing takes place in a laboratory where factors such as temperature, humidity, and light exposure can be carefully regulated.
ACCURATE
Our natural skincare products are subject to robust scientific methodologies in a controlled environment, conducted by an independent laboratory.
OBJECTIVE
Product names are not used for the study, so it’s completely blind; and there are no human variables to influence results.
Alongside our in-vitro investigations, we take a 360° approach to validating our products. This includes:
- In-vivo clinical trials with over 50 women.
- Third-party dermatological testing with statistically significant results.
- Independent studies on our natural ingredients, showing their ability to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and support collagen production.
We’re committed to blending nature and science – ensuring our formulations are both efficacious and backed by research.
Scientifically shown to stimulate collagen synthesis
Avocado Pear Collagen-Boosting Night Cream 60ml
Scientifically shown to stimulate Type I collagen production in human fibroblast skin cells by up to 92%.
*(Trinity Bioactives 2009)
Eve Bio-Retinol Line Reduction Serum 30ml
Scientifically shown to stimulate Type I collagen production in human fibroblast skin cells by up to 55%.
*(Trinity Bioactives 2009)
Lime Caviar Collagen-Rich Firming Cream 60ml
Scientifically shown to stimulate Type I collagen production in human fibroblast skin cells by up to 65%.
*(Trinity Bioactives 2009)
Divine Face Oil Rosehip & Avocado Oil 30ml
Scientifically shown to stimulate Type I collagen production in human fibroblast skin cells by up to 51%.
*(Trinity Bioactives 2009)
Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream 30ml
Scientifically shown to stimulate Type I collagen production in human fibroblast skin cells by up to 82%.
*(Trinity Bioactives 2009)
Hosanna Collagen-Plumping Water Serum 30ml
Scientifically shown to stimulate Type I collagen production in human fibroblast skin cells by up to 72%.
*(Trinity Bioactives 2009)
Avocado Pear Collagen-Boosting Night Cream 60ml
Scientifically shown to stimulate Type I collagen production in human fibroblast skin cells by up to 92%.
Eve Bio-Retinol Line Reduction Serum 30ml
Scientifically shown to stimulate Type I collagen production in human fibroblast skin cells by up to 55%.
Lime Caviar Collagen-Rich Firming Cream 60ml
Scientifically shown to stimulate Type I collagen production in human fibroblast skin cells by up to 65%.
Divine Face Oil Rosehip & Avocado Oil 30ml
Scientifically shown to stimulate Type I collagen production in human fibroblast skin cells by up to 51%.
Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream 30ml
Scientifically shown to stimulate Type I collagen production in human fibroblast skin cells by up to 82%.
Hosanna Collagen-Plumping Water Serum 30ml
Scientifically shown to stimulate Type I collagen production in human fibroblast skin cells by up to 72%.
Clinical trials
Human clinical trials are key indicators of product performance. Conducted on living, volunteer human subjects, they measure a product’s ability to keep skin hydrated, reduce dryness and wrinkle depth, or protect sensitive skin from irritation.
Our natural skincare products are tested by independent laboratoriesagainst a range of criteria in robust clinical settings. They look for, and measure, statistically significant results and outputs.
Our award-winning Avocado Pear Nourishing Night Cream has been clinically shown to reduce wrinkle depth by 22% and dryness by 85.7%. When tested by a group of ten women over an eight-week period, Baptise H2O Ultra-Hydrating Water Gel was clinically shown to hydrate skin by up to 52% after 24 hours – showing that it continued to hydrate skin, long after the formulation was applied.
Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin
Selected natural skincare products undergo dermatological testing. This is conducted in an independent clinical setting in New York, on approximately 50 men and women with sensitive skin. Participants measure their skin’s reaction to the product over a period of six weeks.
To achieve a successful result, our dermatologically tested products were shown not to demonstrate a potential for irritation or sensitivity – making them ideal natural skincare products for sensitive skin.
Our clinical results
Baptise Hyaluronic H2O Ultra-Hydrating Water Gel 60ml
Clinically shown to hydrate skin by 147% after 2 hours*
*Eight-week independent clinical studies involving 10 women (2019)
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Avocado Pear Collagen-Boosting Night Cream 60ml
Clinically shown to:
• Reduce wrinkle depth by up to 22%*
• Reduce skin roughness by 34%*
• Reduce skin dryness by up to 85.7%*
*Eight-week independent clinical studies involving 10 women (2012)
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In-vivo trials
In-vivo testing is a key indicator of product performance. Testing involves a large group of participants (40+ people) using a product of several weeks, then documenting any changes they observed in the look and feel of their skin, based on a set of measurement criteria.
This results in a valuable set of data that reveals a product’s most significant features.
Our in-vivo results
Glory Vitamin C Triple-Action Glow Toner 100ml
A natural toner with three key brightening ingredients to target pigmentation and foster an even-toned glow: Kakadu plum, tone-correcting peptides, and lime caviar AHA.
82% “skin looks brighter”
80% “skin tone appears more even”
*In-vivo trial results from 50 participants after 4 weeks of use. % of participants who agree with the statement.
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Maya Hyaluronic 72-Hour Hydration Serum 30ml
93% “Skin feels instantly hydrated”*
91% “Skin feels soft and refreshed”*
*In-vivo trial results from 50 participants after 4 weeks of use. % of participants who agree with the statement.
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Eve Bio-Retinol Line Reduction Serum 30ml
97% “Skin feels smoother”*
68% “visible reduction in fine lines and wrinkles”*
*In-vivo trial results from 37 participants after 4 weeks of use. % of participants who agree with the statement.
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Anoint H₂O De-Puffing Eye Gel 30ml
88% “reduces puffiness”*
97% “cools and refreshes”*
*In-vivo trial results from 33 participants after 2 weeks of use. % of participants who agree with the statement.
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Lime Caviar Collagen-Rich Firming Cream 60ml
88% “skin feels firmer”*
68% “visible reduction in fine lines & wrinkles”*
*In-vivo trial results from 57 participants after 4 weeks of use. % of participants who agree with the statement.
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Flora Probiotic Skin-Rescue Hyaluronic Mask 75ml
73% “visibly reduced the appearance of imperfections, redness & inflammation”*
*In-vivo trial results from 45 participants after 4 weeks of use. % of participants who agree with the statement.
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Credo Probiotic Anti-Blemish Serum 30ml
87% “skin looked clearer and more even”*
60% “visibly reduced the appearance of blemishes”*
*In-vivo trial results from 45 participants after 4 weeks of use. % of participants who agree with the statement.
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