The BIOEFFECT brand was founded on the invention of EGF extracted from barley and its revolutionary skincare benefits. Ten years later, this highly innovative biotechnology brand is leveraging the power of black barley to achieve exciting new breakthroughs in skincare.
It all began with the analysis and research of a rare type of black barley. This barley is incredibly resilient, growing tenaciously at high altitudes where UV intensity is far greater than in other regions. “The black color of barley is due to a complex mixture of black molecules, including powerful antioxidants and melanin. These were originally evolved in black barley varieties to help them protect themselves in the harsh environment of high altitudes,” explains Dr. Björn Örvar, CSO and Executive Vice President of BioFine, who leads research and innovation. “From our scientific research, we discovered an opportunity to utilize this natural defense mechanism of black barley against the harmful effects of UV radiation and environmental stress. Ultimately, we see this rare black barley as a rich and unique source of active ingredients for our future skincare products.”
Black barley not only imparts unique activities and properties to the plant EGF proteins extracted from it, but its seeds also lack a husk. This makes the extraction and purification process of plant EGF proteins from black barley much easier for BIOEFFECT. A purer epidermal growth factor equates to a more concentrated and effective functional component. "Throughout medical research and our own extensive and meticulous studies, we know that the strength or concentration of plant EGF proteins is extremely important," added Dr. Björn Örvar.
Dr. Björn Örvar
Imagine, the limited-edition BIOEFFECT EGF Serum anniversary formula contains twice the concentration of the regular EGF Serum. Considering the widespread market acceptance of the regular EGF Serum, its skincare efficacy and effects are renowned globally:
- Promotes the production of collagen and elastin.
- Improves skin density and thickness, and enhances skin hydration and overall health.
- Reduce the appearance of wrinkles
- Promotes plumpness and firmness of skin
EGF is one of the most important proteins naturally present in our skin at birth. However, it begins to decline around age 20, and this trend continues with age. It plays a crucial role in coordinating and maintaining youthful and healthy skin with related skin cellular activities—one of which is promoting the production of collagen and elastin to maintain healthy, firm, and youthful skin.
After years of "cracking" the secrets of black barley, BIOEFFECT has now patented its unique method for growing and extracting proteins from this rare plant. "We spent over three years developing and acquiring this new patented black barley variety in our eco-engineered greenhouse in the lava fields of Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula," said Liv Bergthorsdottir, CEO of BIOEFFECT. "All our barley is grown in rich, inert volcanic pumice, using geothermal energy and nutrient-rich, pure Icelandic water." "We are very pleased to introduce this patented black barley plant EGF into a new limited-edition essence, and we look forward to utilizing this unique ingredient in future product development."
The EGF SERUM Anniversary Limited Edition features an exquisite bottle and sculpture, crafted by renowned Icelandic artist Hrafnhildur Arnardottir, known as the "Shoplifter," embodying the unique characteristics of EGF SERUM, black barley seeds, and the distinctive nature of Iceland.