Korean beauty company Kolmar has been awarded national new technology (NET) status for its targeted anti-aging material, ‘TOT’ (Tocopherol-Oxalate-Tocopherol). This recognition follows its recent emergence on the cover of an SCI-level journal, highlighting its innovative approach and commercial potential.
The NET designation, granted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, is awarded to technologies either newly developed in Korea or significantly improved existing technologies with substantial technical and economic impact. This categorization underscores the material's excellence and contribution to the advancement of national technology.
The newly designated technology, TOT, integrates principles from targeted cancer therapy within the cosmetic sector. Developed in collaboration with the research team at Chonbuk National University, this pioneering material releases vitamin E, an antioxidant, when it interacts with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), the compound responsible for skin aging. Similar to how targeted therapies selectively attack cancer cells, TOT selectively targets aging agents within the skin.
Kolmar has also completed the registration of TOT as a new anti-aging ingredient in the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary (INCI), positioning it for incorporation into product development. Utilizing its proprietary ‘DDS Smart Liposome’ technology, Kolmar aims to expedite the creation of a premium line of anti-aging cosmetics. This technique allows for the encapsulation of TOT within fine liposomes, ensuring targeted delivery to the dermal layers where aging occurs, thereby enhancing its effectiveness.
A Kolmar representative stated, “This NET designation signifies recognition from the government for our extraordinary convergence technology spanning pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Through our research and development efforts focused on the root causes of aging, we aim to introduce differentiated ‘targeted anti-aging cosmetics’ to enhance our global competitiveness.”
