Exponent stirs up beauty market with new self-activated skincare line

08 Apr 2022 --- Active ingredient expert Exponent has unveiled a “self-activated” clinical skincare line to allow consumers to mix their own serum, achieving full potency. Its patented Self-Activator system will enable consumers to combine an active powder with a hydrator to whip up a single-dose application that prevents product oxidation and degradation.

This system allows the ingredients to maintain their efficacy and use their peak potency. Exponent aims to branch out of traditional water-based skincare formulas that degrade after they are manufactured.

Precise dosing for optimal self-formulation
The Self-Activator lineup includes four serums: Active Powder formulas with Vitamin C, CoQ10, green tea, resveratrol and probiotics and enzymes. The powder is mixed with the Quadruple Hyaluronic Acid Hydrator. 

The system dispenses a precise dose of the Active Powder and Quadruple Hyaluronic Acid Hydrator.“Skincare products, ironically, have an aging problem,” says the company.  

The serum mix described as a light gel cream forms in under eight seconds. Its Self-Activator system allows products to be protected until the mixing activates them. 

“Skincare products, ironically, have an aging problem,” shares Exponent. 

“Pre-bottled skincare can degrade up to 40% in just eight weeks, ultimately rendering your skincare ineffective.”

Behind the innovation
The company was founded when Liz Whitman was president & CMO of The Red Door by Elizabeth Arden, where estheticians mix ingredients for the best results. 

This led Whitman to question and speculate about the efficacy of premixed skincare products. After two years of research and third-party testing on best-sellers, she concluded that a significant problem with skincare products is that they age. 

“We know this category needs more transparency and education around clinical efficacy. We’re excited to advocate for a higher standard – because skincare shouldn’t be premixed, watered-down or bottled up,” she underscores.

The company is B Corp Certified for its packaging and reusable design of the Exponent Self-Activator – eliminating plastic waste with refills of Hydrator and Active Powders made of “infinitely recyclable glass and aluminum.

Exponent is backed by Unilever Ventures (The Inkey List, Kopari Beauty, Saie), Founders Fund (Ritual, 8Sleep), SugarCap (Starface, Snif), Flybridge Capital (Chief, Parachute) and Bullish (Harry’s, Care/of) including industry executives. 

Edited by Venya Patel