The Longevity and Slow-Aging Movement Gets an Ingredient Refresh

Beauty and wellness are rapidly evolving categories, with consumers increasingly weaving self-care, daily rituals and wellness routines into their definitions of beauty. According to NIQ, beauty is expected to become 64% larger by expanding into the wellness and ritual categories^a. With global life expectancy increasing (reaching an average of 73 years in 2024), well-beauty is becoming a new global priority, with 57% of consumers saying aging well is more important to them than it was five years ago^a.

Across consumers, beauty is being seen as a long-term investment, expanding across skin care and expanding into categories like hair care, makeup and body care. john at Adobe StockEnter longevity and slow-aging. A movement spanning beauty categories, these well-beauty buzzwords focus on delaying aging through holistic, full body regeneration, emphasizing skin maintenance over correction. Having picked up momentum since the pandemic, the terms are having a trickle-down effect as they slip into consumers' beauty vernacular. 

Spate reports that the following topics within longevity and wellness are fueling well-beauty's year-over-year growth^b: 

• Age management: 142.7% YoY growth
• Skin microbiome: 120.1% YoY growth
• Cellular senescence: 25.3% YoY growth
• Positive aging: 18.4% YoY growth
• Skin barrier: 7.1% YoY growth
• Biohacking: 196.0% YoY growth
• Longevity lifestyle: 188.6% YoY growth
• Circadian rhythm: 91.4% YoY growth
• Longevity supplement: 88.9% YoY growth
• Hormonal regulation: 11.8% YoY growth 

According to Spate's report on longevity across beauty and wellness, "longevity is no longer just about extending lifespan—it’s equally about enhancing the quality of life they hope to maintain over time."

A movement spanning beauty categories, longevity and slow-aging focus on delaying aging through holistic, full body regeneration, emphasizing skin maintenance over correction.Newleks at Adobe Stock

Across consumers, beauty is being seen as a long-term investment, expanding across skin care and expanding into categories like hair care, makeup and body care. Below are some of the ingredients that are making strides in the longevity and slow-aging communities, targeting new actives, technology and pathways for more effective anti-aging products. 

Mediterranean Fruits for Longevity and Regeneration

DSM-Firmenich has launched Exovive Lift, a new skin care ingredient based on plant-derived exosome technology. The innovation leverages natural cellular communication to deliver clinically validated results in skin rejuvenation and a new approach to anti-aging solutions.

Longevity and Regenerative Medicine

Inspired by longevity science and regenerative medicine, Exovive Lift is powered by trillions of extracellular vesicles sustainably sourced from Alpine apple, Mediterranean tangerine and Sicilian papaya. Olga Rolencino at Adobe Stock

Inspired by longevity science and regenerative medicine, Exovive Lift (INCI: Malus Domestica Fruit Extract (and) Citrus Reticula (Tangerine) Fruit Extract (and) Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract (and) Maltodextrin) is powered by trillions of extracellular vesicles sustainably sourced from Alpine apple, Mediterranean tangerine and Sicilian papaya. These vesicles function as natural messengers, delivering nutrients and miRNAs that support renewed skin vitality.

Proven Clinical Efficacy

The efficacy of Exovive Lift is supported by extensive clinical studies. The ingredient has been shown in vivo to increase skin elasticity by 33% and reduce the visible appearance of wrinkles by up to eight years after two months of use. A noticeable reduction in wrinkle appearance, equivalent to four years of aging, is observed in as little as four weeks.

According to dsm-firmenich, when cellular communication declines, skin aging accelerates. Exovive Lift is designed to help restore that essential dialogue.Image by Ben at Adobe Stock

Key benefits of Exovive Lift include:

• Improves elasticity and firmness, strengthening skin’s structural integrity for a fuller, more contoured appearance
• Reduces wrinkles by visibly diminishing crow’s feet and other signs of aging, with measured reversal of wrinkle appearance
• Supports rejuvenation by modulating key proteins involved in the aging process (via miRNAs) for a lifted, revitalized skin condition
• Outperforms conventional fruit extracts in efficacy and performance, as demonstrated in clinical comparisons

Eco-Friendly and Reduced Impact

In line with DSM-Firmenich’s commitment to sustainability, Exovive Lift is produced using an eco-friendly extraction method from organic, biodiversity-rich sources in Italy. The ingredient is provided in powder form to ensure a low use level and reduced environmental impact.

Blue Microalgae Becomes Anti-Aging Solution 

Ultra Chemical presents Bicoalgae Blue, a biofunctional ingredient designed to address the needs of aging and senescent skin through the targeted delivery of actives. Developed by Bicosome and supplied in parts of the United States and Canada by Ultra Chemical, the ingredient uses a specialized nanostructure system to transport bioactives into the deeper epidermal and dermal layers of the skin.

Bicoalgae Blue combines two primary active ingredients: Spirulina platensis, a blue microalgae known for promoting keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation, and resveratrol.Withun at Adobe Stock

Dynamic Ingredient Duo: Blue Microalgae + Resveratrol

Bicoalgae Blue (INCI: Water (Aqua) (and) Phosphatidylcholine (and) Glycerin (and) Spirulina Platensis Extract (and) Resveratrol) combines two primary active ingredients: Spirulina platensis, a blue microalgae known for promoting keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation, and resveratrol, a polyphenol recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to enhance mitochondrial activity.

Targeting Senescent Cells

According to the company, Bicoalgae Blue is engineered to target senescent cells that can accumulate over time and contribute to the visible signs of aging. By joining these actives, the ingredient aims to stimulate collagen production and metabolic activity.

Proven Clinical Efficacy

Clinical data indicates the ingredient is effective in both young and senescent cells. Reported benefits include:

• Improved cell proliferation
• Increased ATP production
• Enhanced wound-healing capabilities

According to Ultra Chemical, clinical trials have demonstrated the ingredient can increase skin hydration and elasticity while working to re-plump and redensify skin layers.john at Adobe Stock

The ingredient is listed as globally compliant, including in China, for use as a cosmetic ingredient. It is intended for application in skin and color cosmetic formulations at recommended use levels of 1-3%.

The Youth-Enhancing Brazilian Tropical Seaweed 

Assessa's Hypskin is a bioactive based on sulfated polysaccharides obtained from marine algae of the Rhodophyceae class and polyuronic acids from marine algae of the Phaeophyceae class, collected on a sustainable basis on the shores of the northeastern coast of Brazil.

Assessa's Hypskin is a bioactive derived from marine algae collected on the shores of the northeastern coast of Brazil.divedog at Adobe StockHypskin represents a new generation of active ingredients for skin care based on Assessa's expertise in tropical seaweeds. 

Hypskin works by activating specific sensors on the surface of the skin, stimulating the release of a cascade of several cytokines. The cytokines act at deeper levels of the epidermis and dermis, encouraging the proliferation and activity of keratinocytes. The result, per the company, is a more homogeneous distribution of melanin and a more even skin tone with fewer blemishes.

The activated keratinocytes also release cohesion proteins such as filaggrins, generating a better structured stratum corneum. Other cytokines go deeper, reaching the dermis, stimulating the blood flow and the metabolic exchanges. They also stimulate the activity of fibroblasts, the production of collagen, elastin and other components of the extracellular matrix.

After 90 days, Assessa claims that Hypskin did the following: 

• Reduced oil-related skin gloss by 10.7%
• Reduced the visibility of wrinkles by 17.1%
• Increased the density of the skin by 31.4%
• Improved skin texture by 9.5%
• Improved skin appearance by 27.2%

Indigenous Traditions Inspire Next-Gen Anti-Aging 

BASF Personal Care has introduced Ameriflor Calm to address the growing demand for effective solutions for sensitive skin. The sustainable ingredient has been shown to strengthen skin's resilience, reduce the appearance of redness, minimize trans-epidermal water loss and protect against environmental aggressors thanks to its antioxidant-boosting effects.

Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science

According to BASF, Ameriflor Calm (INCI: Water (Aqua) (and) Prunella Vulgaris Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract (and) Pentylene Glycol (and) Caprylyl Glycol (and) Xanthan Gum) merges plant-based knowledge from Indigenous American traditions with modern scientific techniques. 

Ameriflor Calm merges plant-based knowledge from Indigenous American traditions with modern scientific techniques.Lily at Adobe Stock

The active is derived from the self-healing Prunella vulgaris plant, a resilient botanical long used in traditional medicine by Indigenous nations such as the Nitassinan, Catawba, Cherokee and Algonquin-speaking peoples for soothing properties, among others.

Proven Clinical Efficacy

Clinical evaluations have confirmed Ameriflor Calm’s efficacy. According to the company, in studies for participants with sensitive skin, the application of 1% Ameriflor Calm over 28 days (with results measured at baseline and at 7 and 28 days) demonstrated:

• 10% improvement in the appearance of skin redness after only 7 days, outperforming placebo (8%)—with continued improvement at 28 days.
• Additionally, trans-epidermal water loss improved by 11% compared to the placebo after one week of use.

Regenerative Sourcing, Eco-Friendly Production

In addition, Ameriflor Calm is sourced in the United States from regenerative, organic-certified farms in Oregon, recognized by the Regenerative Organic Alliance. It also is produced under the company's Responsibly Active initiative for bioactive cosmetic ingredients, ensuring the ingredient's full traceability, fair labor standards and environmental stewardship. The use of 100% renewable electricity in manufacturing further reduces the product’s CO₂ footprint.

Vitality and Resilience: How A Symbol of Qi Powers Longevity and Anti-Aging

LipoTrue's OQilora (INCI: Glycerin (and) Water (Aqua) (and) Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract (and) Maltodextrin (and) Passiflora Incarnata Extract) reportedly combines principles from traditional Chinese medicine and current scientific knowledge to address the eye contour area. It draws on Astragalus root, a symbol of Qi (chi) known for vitality and resilience, and Passiflora flower, recognized for its calming effects. 

OQilora reportedly combines principles from traditional Chinese medicine and current scientific knowledge to address the eye contour area.Donald at Adobe Stock

According to the company, this ingredient is formulated to stimulate mitochondrial ATP synthesis and support GABA receptor activation, which may relax micro-contractions, reduce expression lines and encourage collagen production. Observed effects include diminished dark circles, reduced puffiness and decreased appearance of early wrinkles, helping to rejuvenate the skin around the eyes and deliver effects similar to red-light therapy.

Ayurvedic Herbs for Well-Beauty Benefits

Extracts-Unlimited LLC has a new line of adaptogen extracts, naturally derived from Ayurvedic herbs and plants, to help manage environmentally induced bodily stress. Daniel at Adobe Stock

Extracts-Unlimited LLC has a new line of adaptogen extracts, naturally derived from ayurvedic herbs and plants, to help manage environmentally induced bodily stress. The extracts include: 

• Bio-fermented plant extracts: Fermented materials are said, per the company, to exhibit higher phytochemical component levels and lower inhibitory enzyme content. This extract is based on all-natural materials, including sea algae.
• Black cumin seed oil: A "crossover" from the nutritional supplement world, the extract is a traditional medicinal oil with powerful anti-inflammatory properties for topical applications.
• Olive squalane: A one-to-one replacement for sugar-based squalane, olive squalane is economical and non-GMO.
• Organic prickly pear seed oil: Rich in vitamin E, the ingredient provides deep hydration and contains natural sterols and polyphenols.

Senescent-clearing Hollyhock

As skin longevity and slow aging move to the forefront of beauty, the conversation is shifting from “fighting wrinkles” to modulating the biology of aging itself. One of the most disruptive concepts in this space is the role of senescent or “zombie” cells—damaged cells that no longer divide but remain metabolically active, secreting pro-inflammatory factors that destabilize the skin’s structure over time.

Provital has created a senolytic approach to skin longevity with its senescent-clearing ingredient Altheostem.

Obtained from lab-grown stem cells of Althaea rosea (hollyhock), Altheostem offers a senolytic-inspired cosmetic strategy by targeting these senescent cells.settapong at Adobe Stock

Obtained from lab-grown stem cells of Althaea rosea (hollyhock), Altheostem offers a senolytic-inspired cosmetic strategy by targeting these senescent cells. Rather than simply masking signs of aging, it helps selectively clear dysfunctional cells, allowing healthier cells and the extracellular matrix to function more efficiently.

According to Provital, this translates into visible benefits that align with the concept of slow aging: improved elasticity, refined skin texture, better glow and a measurable reduction in “apparent age” assessed by AI. 

Senolytic and ECM Remodeling

Specific senolytic and remodeling benefits include:

• 42.5% reduction in senescent cells
• 36% increase in apoptosis, specifically in senescent cells (selective clearance, preserving healthy cells)
• modulation of genes involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, supporting collagen and structural protein balance while reducing ECM degradation

Clinical Efficacy

The described benefits further translate to clinical effects, such as:

• 8.5% increase in glow, indicating improved skin radiance.
• 16.8% improvement in elasticity, reflecting better mechanical properties and rebound.
• 18.6% reduction in sagging, associated with firmer facial contours.
• 13.8% reduction in wrinkle depth, contributing to smoother skin texture.
• AI-based visual analysis showed a 3.26-year reduction in the whole-face's apparent age.

Senescent Zombie Cells Disrupted

Mibelle Biochemistry has launched its SenoCellTec, a senolytic active designed to rejuvenate the skin by targeting the root causes of aging. Clinically tested, the active reportedly enhances hydration, firmness, elasticity and density in 28 days while visibly reducing wrinkle depth—including in areas affected by gravity. 

Senescent cells release inflammatory signals that degrade collagen and disrupt regeneration, while aging stem cells lose their ability to renew the skin. twc at Adobe Stock

Zombie Cell Science 

As the company explains, skin aging goes beyond surface-level changes. It is driven by deeper biological processes like the accumulation of senescent zombie cells and the decline of skin stem cell activity.

Senescent cells release inflammatory signals that degrade collagen and disrupt regeneration, while aging stem cells lose their ability to renew the skin. Together, these changes can lead to reduced firmness, elasticity and visible signs of aging. Addressing both factors is therefore essential for lasting skin rejuvenation. 

Clear. Fill. Revive. Repeat.

Through its clear–fill–revive mechanism, SenoCellTec reportedly clears senescent “zombie” cells and activates skin stem cells to support deep regeneration and visibly restore skin vitality. 

INCI: Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture Extract (and) Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Cell Extract (and) Rhododendron Ferrugineum Extract (and) Glycerin (and) Pentylene Glycol (and) Aqua/Waterandrewhagen at Adobe Stock

According to the company, SenoCellTec:

• Clears away senescent zombie cells that accelerate aging by releasing harmful factors
• Fills the skin with new functional cells by activating both dermal and epidermal stem cells to restore skin structure
• Revives skin vitality by boosting collagen production and improving elasticity, improving barrier function and firmness

As a result, SenoCellTec is said to deliver visibly revitalized, lifted and youthful-looking skin through its clear-fill-revive mechanism.  

Circadian Rhythm Regulation for Younger, Youthful Skin 

Mibelle Biochemistry has also made LunaRose, an overnight skin ingredient based on the fruits (hips) of a variety of organic roses, for regenerative and rejuvenating melatonin-like effects. 

Melatonin Mimicked 

LunaRose mimics melatonin’s effects by activating similar biological pathways that regulate the skin’s circadian rhythm and support overnight repair. The company claims that in human epidermal keratinocytes, treatment significantly increased the expression of the melatonin receptor MTNR1A, comparable to the effect of melatonin itself. The receptor activation by melatonin is known to trigger downstream gene expression changes involved in circadian rhythm, antioxidant defense and mitochondrial function. 

Just like melatonin, LunaRose induced a time-dependent expression pattern of core clock genes such as BMAL1, CLOCK, PER2 and CRY2, helping synchronize the skin’s natural rhythm. 

LunaRose mimics melatonin’s effects by activating similar biological pathways that regulate the skin’s circadian rhythm and support overnight repair. Amelia at Adobe StockMitochondrial Maintenance 

LunaRose, per the company, enhances mitochondrial function, which is essential for maintaining the skin’s energy and vitality. In human epidermal keratinocytes, the ingredient upregulated key genes involved in mitochondrial processes, including those responsible for electron transport and ATP synthesis. It also stimulated genes linked to mitophagy, the selective removal of damaged mitochondria, ensuring a healthy mitochondrial network. 

This genetic activation translates into improved mitochondrial performance. These improvements claim that skin cells can generate more energy, support vital metabolic processes and repair mechanisms during the night.

Stressor Shield 

LunaRose is said to strengthen the skin barrier by promoting keratinocyte differentiation and enhancing structural cohesion, which helps to protect against environmental stressors. 

These molecular changes claim to translate into a stronger, more cohesive barrier that retains moisture and resists external aggressors. This effect was confirmed in a placebo-controlled clinical study: after 28 days of using a cream with 2% LunaRose, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) decreased by 12.4% compared to baseline and by 7.3% versus placebo, indicating improved barrier integrity. Skin hydration also rose significantly, reinforcing the barrier’s ability to maintain suppleness and resilience.

Climate-Adaptive Skin Care for Geo-Longevity

DS-Ceramide Y3S is part of the SphingoCare range, with natural origin content verified under ISO 16128. It is compatible with RSPO, Cosmos and Natrue formulation standards and suitable for vegan formulations.CrodaCroda Beauty Actives has launched DS-Ceramide Y3S, a fermentation-derived Ceramide NP developed to support the skin barrier against region-specific environmental stressors; aka geo skin care. 

This IECIC-compliant, lipo-soluble ingredient has been shown in controlled clinical settings to support skin hydration under diverse climatic conditions and across multiple geographic populations, per the company.

Cross-Condition and Region Study

The studies reportedly exposed test panels from South Korea and Italy to defined temperate, hot and dry, cold and dry, and humid conditions. DS-Ceramide Y3S (INCI: Ceramide NP) was applied at a concentration of 0.5%, and barrier function and hydration endpoints were measured over both immediate and short-term timeframes.

Key Skin Benefits

• Statistically significant increase in skin hydration in normal (temperate) conditions (+31% at week 2 vs T0)
• Statistically significant increase in skin hydration in hot and dry environments (+47% at week 2, vs T0)
• Similar efficacy to a positive control (1% hyaluronic acid)

Notably, the company reports the ingredient conferred acute resistance benefits in cold and dry settings and showed cumulative hydration effects after seven days in high-humidity scenarios.

Croda's studies reportedly exposed test panels from South Korea and Italy to defined temperate, hot and dry, cold and dry and humid conditions.Jose Ignacio Soto at Adobe Stock

Geo Skin Care on the Rise

Robin Cordier, digital and communication coordinator for Croda Beauty,
stated, "Geo skin care is one of the main trends our teams identified as shapers of the cosmetic industry. In today’s changing world, there is no
doubt geo skin care is bound to be adopted as a holistic approach to skin care and as a main element of choice for beauty routines during many following years.”

Anti-Photoaging Vitamin C Solution 

According to Seiwa, there are two main causes of skin aging: natural aging and photoaging, when skin is exposed to sunlight and other sources of light. The company claims that photoaging accounts for as much as 80% of the aging process, leading to changes in the skin structure such as wrinkles, sagging, dark spots and dullness. 

To combat photoaging, Seiwa has made an anti-photoaging ingredient called iVC 3GA-green, a plant-derived anti-aging vitamin C. 

iVC 3GA-green exhibits antioxidant effects against ROS generated by UVA and UVB, and suppresses the decline in collagen production and the reduction of elastin. 

From Cultured Meat to Cell Culture: A New Class of Exosomes 

Vow, an Australian biotech firm known for its innovations in cultured meat, has entered the beauty industry with Membrane[actives], a cosmetics brand whose debut ingredient, Exo[membrane], is reportedly the world’s first exosome made entirely through cell culture — free from human or plant sources.

Redefining Beauty with Science

Created using Vow’s advanced 20,000-liter bioreactor system, the Membrane[actives] brand claims to offer potent, ethical and scalable ingredients "designed by living cells to communicate with human cells."

Clinical trials (n = 8, male and female, ages 30 to 40) reportedly showed that after microneedling, a 5-mL application of Exo[membrane] reduced redness by 34% and wrinkle width by 20% in just seven days, delivering visible results through deep skin repair and renewal.

Exo[membrane] is reportedly the world’s first exosome made entirely through cell culture—free from human or plant sources.U77 at Adobe Stock

A New Standard in Skin Care

Vow’s cultured exosomes are said to overcome the limitations of plant and human-derived exosomes, including:

• Extraction
• Variability
• Scarcity

Exo[membrane] reportedly combines the efficacy of human-derived exosomes with the safety and consistency of biotechnology. 

“We’re introducing a new class of science-based actives that speak the same language as the skin,” said Jasper Veen, general manager of Membrane[actives].

Botox Bottled: Innovations in Wrinkle Reduction

At a recommended use level of 3-5%, ZPC Wrinklend008S can help reduce wrinkle depth and expression lines by relaxing facial tension.Olha Havelia at Adobe StockZPC Wrinklend008S (INCI: Water (Aqua) (and) Glycerin (and) 1,2-Hexanediol (and) Ethylhexylglycerin (and) Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) is reportedly referred to as "Botox in a bottle." According to the company, Presperse Corp., this neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptide is used to address wrinkles caused by facial movement, especially around the eyes and forehead. 

At a recommended use level of 3-5%, it can help reduce wrinkle depth and expression lines by relaxing facial tension, while also supporting collagen I expression and reducing inflammation (IL-8).

Ubiquitin-Targeting Skin Rejuvenation 

Hallstar earned the silver award for its UBI Oléoactif at In-cosmetics Asia 2025.Justlight at Adobe Stock

Silver award-winner at In-Cosmetics Asia 2025, Hallstar's UBI Oléoactif is a skin rejuvenation breakthrough targeting ubiquitin, a vital cellular protein. Developed from birchwood co-products, the active is backed by multi-ethnic clinical studies and offers visible improvements in skin vitality and tone.  

The Well-Beauty Imperative

Well-beauty is not just a trend. It holds a strategic imperative for brands and suppliers wanting to build meaningful, innovative strategies and respond better to changing expectations. By bridging beauty and wellness, brands can explore how longevity and slow-aging are influencing the future of anti-aging ingredients and position themselves to be at the forefront of formulation innovation. 

FOOTNOTES

^awww.nielseniq.com/global/en/insights/commentary/2025/the-global-beauty-edit-finding-category-growth-beyond-the-mirror/

^bwww.spate.nyc/reports/guide-to-longevity-beauty-and-wellness?utm_campaign=31321367-2025%20Longevity%20Report&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--0zRt3Ue1atWj1dgUebV3oeLMTgv0JuyyHjQctEn2C4MWXf3Xb7SMUwzPoB8oRHSuvn-bJkOn81DkSR63yNBfZDviu0w&_hsmi=393462474&utm_content=393462474&utm_source=hs_email