With Epispot, BASF Personal Care launches a sustainably sourced cosmetic ingredient that enhances beauty and self-confidence for people with blemish-prone skin. This skin issue affects consumers worldwide, regardless of their gender, age, or ethnicity. The characteristics are manifold, ranging from shiny skin and enlarged visible pores to spots and blemishes.

Epispot is an extract of Epilobium angustifolium, a plant that is responsibly sourced in France, and is suitable for a wide range of applications, from face serums to cleansers and even makeup formulations.

Addressing the root causes of an imbalance affecting lipids, microbiota, and the skin’s natural defense system, Epispot reduces skin shine, improves the appearance of facial pores, and promotes a healthy complexion. The new ingredient is thus in line with the #NoFilter trend in skincare and meets consumers’ desire for an authentic, flawless look without relying on digital beauty filters.

The effect of Epispot on skin oiliness has been tested using a sophisticated ex vivo 3D model of the pilosebaceous unit, including the hair follicle, hair shaft, and sebaceous gland. This new model is the result of a two-year internal research program by the company’s R&D team. An innovative process makes the 3D skin structure transparent to better visualize skin architecture. Combined with advanced microscopic techniques, it allows for an in situ evaluation of the effect of Epispot on skin oiliness at the source.

Epispot is obtained through water extraction from the aerial parts of Epilobium angustifolium. This plant is also known as fire grass or phoenix flower as it thrives following forest fires and logging operations. It is manually collected by skilled harvesters in France and adheres to the rigorous guidelines set by the AFC, an association of French plant pickers that promotes respectful harvesting techniques to ensure sustainable management of wild plants. Organic certified harvesting is carried out at six different locations to ensure species preservation through thoughtful rotation.