As early as the 1600s, physicians first experimented with hyperbaric oxygen therapy to remedy chronic health conditions. Then, in the 18th century, researchers tried injecting oxygen into the skin for better wound healing. More recently in 2002, the first oxygen facial was performed, giving a quick boost to dry, dull and aging skin. (Madonna, Naomi Campbell and dozens of other A-listers swear by them). But what’s next when it comes to O2? Topical skin care.
A New Breakthrough
Every system in our body relies on oxygen to make energy, including our skin. “Our skin is the last organ being served with the oxygen supply from our blood, so it critically depends on good oxygen management,” says Munich-based dermatologist Dr. Patricia Ogilvie. “Under certain clinical conditions, it has been proven that providing additional oxygen supply to the skin can be very beneficial. Perhaps the best-known application is the use of hyperbaric oxygen chambers for the healing of chronic wounds.”
Dior is paving the way for a new category in skin care, utilizing a breakthrough technology called the Oxygen-Collagen treatment, or OX-C for short. Bruno Bavouzet, president of LVMH research, says, “Oxygen is especially important for anti-aging in cosmetics because it is involved in skin cellular regeneration through cell respiration.” Cell respiration is the process of producing energy with the intake of oxygen.
Furthermore, oxygen triggers the production of ATP (another big beauty buzzword right now), which is key for collagen production. “To produce just one collagen fiber, we need more than 12,000 ATP molecules,” says Bavouzet. “However, the problem is that with age, cell respiration slows down. This reduction directly effects collagen production. But, with better oxygen supply, we discovered that we can boost both cell respiration and regeneration. We screened several bioactive ingredients and discovered that plant-derived biopolymers activate oxygen transportation.” Hence, a new generation of skin care is born.
Dynamic Duo
We’ve had our eye on Dior’s two new innovations harnessing the power of OX-C since we were first briefed back in September. In these two clinically proven formulas, the efficacy of OX-C is complemented by two bioactives: lily extract and a collagen-boosting dipeptide. “Capture Le Sérum uses a triple-patented technology: an exo-liposome that allows OX-C to penetrate the skin 33-percent deeper, and continuously for eight hours,” says Virginie Couturaud, scientific communication director for Christian Dior Parfums. Expect the same texture as the original Capture Totale, but with better penetration for enhanced results.
“In Capture La Creme, we have the OX-C plus a patented duo of hyaluronic acid molecules for immediate and long-lasting skin plumping,” adds Couturaud. “It also includes a new patented shaping complex that tightens skin contours.” We love the new cushiony texture, which is an upgrade from the original for a fresh sensorial experience. There are compelling clinicals for OX-C, too. In-vitro testing showed a 22-percent increase in epidermal regeneration and a 42-percent increase in dermal regeneration. Collagen production was also multiplied by three.
