Derived from Artemisia annua – the same botanical whose active ingredient contributed to a Nobel Prize in Medicine for antimalarial therapy – this plant holds one of the most respected scientific legacies in modern natural research. Over time, specialized Artemisia annua cultivars have been optimized to concentrate key bioactive components – some revealing extraordinary potential for skin health.
The Artemisia C-08UC Complex® has been specially developed for cosmetic applications. It protects the skin thanks to its antiseptic, antibacterial and antioxidant properties and counteracts any damage that has already occurred.
Partnering with leading research specialists in Switzerland, 72k refined cultivation, growth conditions and high-precision extraction – resulting in our exclusive Artemisia C-08UC Complex® – developed to maximize the skin-supporting potential of this remarkable botanical.
Our innovative, multi-active Artemisia C-08UC Complex® with anti-pollution shield combats the signs of skin ageing: ‘Aging well at its best’, based on 20 years of phyto- and skin biology research, entirely developed and produced in Switzerland.
The high quality of the 72k own Artemisia annua plants is influenced by the unique growing conditions in the Swiss Alps and our special dual-phase phytoextraction process of 72k. Our dual-phase phytoextraction system uses a precisely calibrated combination of natural protic and polar components to isolate defined spectra of bioactive compounds from plant raw materials with high selectivity (flavonoids, phenolic acids, sesquiterpene lactones such as artemisinin, bitter compounds, tannins).
72k’s UltraDeepDelivery® brings state-of-the-art transdermal delivery technology from the pharmaceutical industry into use.
The active ingredients are embedded in highly flexible, ultra-fine ethosomes that temporarily optimize the lipid structure of the stratum corneum layers. This allows functional actives to efficiently diffuse along the natural intercellular channels into deeper layers of the epidermis – while maintaining the skin’s natural barrier function.
At the site of action, the ethosomes dissolve and release their amphiphilic components with small molecular size. This enhances the distribution and penetration of the functional active ingredients within the epidermis.
Artemisinin, the active ingredient in Artemisia annua, combats excessive skin pigmentation. These research findings were published in 2018 in an article in the prestigious British Journal of Dermatology (Oxford). The article highlights the particular dermatological benefits of artemisinin.
It addresses a wide range of skin concerns. Specifically developed to combat pigmentation. Also effective against acne-like skin conditions and hyperpigmentation. A first aid must-have in every household.
Thanks to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties, the complex soothes irritation, promotes healing and protects against skin-damaging germs.
Anti-inflammatory effect: through the reduction of cytokines. Cytokines are proteins that regulate cell growth and differentiation. Scientific studies have shown that extracts from Artemisia annua significantly reduce the release of certain inflammatory messengers, known as cytokines. These include TNF-α, IL-4 and IL-6 molecules, which play a central role in skin inflammation, redness and itching. By inhibiting these signals, the plant can soothe the skin’s irritation reactions and support natural regeneration.
By improving the skin barrier by increasing filaggrin proteins. These proteins are formed in mammals during the keratinisation process of the skin in the keratinocytes. Keratinocytes are specialised cells of the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, which play a key role in the formation of the skin barrier. They produce the protein keratin, which ensures the skin’s strength and resilience. Loricrin is a protein that is cross-linked during the keratinisation process.
Artemisia extracts promote the formation of structural proteins such as filaggrin and loricrin, which are crucial for healthy, resilient skin: two key factors for the skin. They are essential for the stability of the stratum corneum and the skin’s ability to retain moisture. When strengthened, the skin can significantly improve its protective function: less dryness, less irritation, less sensitivity. At the same time, transepidermal water loss is reduced (TEWL is the natural loss of water through the uppermost layer of skin, the epidermis). The skin loses less moisture, stays hydrated and supple for longer. The result: a smoother, more balanced complexion.
Potential for atopic dermatitis and eczema: The effect of 72k natural dermato skincare on sensitive skin reduces redness and improves moisture and barrier functions.
Several recent studies show that extracts from Artemisia annua can specifically calm the typical inflammatory processes associated with skin conditions such as neurodermatitis. They inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-13 and TNF-α), which are overactive in these skin conditions. This alleviates the skin’s irritation response, noticeably reducing itching, redness and flaking. The skin is effectively soothed and redness is visibly reduced. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredients help to stabilise irritated skin and reduce reactions to external stimuli – without the use of aggressive active ingredients.
Antioxidant properties combat premature skin ageing caused by free radicals. The complex reduces inflammation and supports the aging-well process.
Natural cell structure is stimulated and acts as a ‘bio-filler’ – for smoother, firmer skin.
➤ Tannins inhibit elastin degradation and have an astringent (contracting) effect.
➤ Bitter substances promote keratinocyte synthesis (keratinocyte synthesis is the formation of keratin, the main protein in the skin, which is produced in keratinocytes, the main cells of the epidermis), i.e. the cell formation process in the skin.
Skin renewal, wound healing and regeneration of the barrier function are promoted.
Reduces hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory spots: regulates melanin production and thus the formation of spots, and reduces existing spots (lightening effect).
Combats vascular redness such as rosacea or couperose by strengthening the blood vessels.
With 72,000 µg TE / 100 g, the complex protects against oxidative stress caused by UV radiation and environmental pollution such as air pollution. The name 72k refers to this high content of 72,000 µg. The higher the Trolox equivalent measurement value, the higher the antioxidant effect and the greater the reduction in harmful radicals that are neutralised.