Curapel scientists launch convenient skin health supplement

Pellamex is a patented skin care supplement for eczema prone skin, previously only available in individual sachets of liquid solution, now relaunched in effervescent format to minimise the need for additives and preservatives and improve consumer experience. 

The active ingredient is a natural amino acid L-histidine which acts as a key building block for filaggrin​, a crucial skin barrier protein, alongside vitamins B2, B3, B7, vitamin E and zinc. 

"Filaggrin is important in maintaining a normal healthy skin barrier which is something we all need in an increasingly polluted world but especially those with dry, sensitive and eczema-prone skin," explained Peter Luebcke, CEO at Curapel.

“With eczema, filaggrin fails and so the skin barrier is much more fragile than in healthy skin. People think of eczema as an immunological deficiency but the core issue is having a poor skin barrier that lets in things to the skin that cause itching and redness and sometimes bleeding. 

“Our solution builds up the protein in the skin and maintains its integrity and, unlike creams and lotions, it reaches the entire skin area."

A randomised, double-blind placebo-controlled study into the effects of the pellamex active ​supplementation in atopic dermatitis saw a 39% reduction in symptoms over a four-week period​. 

“This is the largest effect of any treatment affecting the skin barrier in atopic dermatitis that I have seen in a clinical trial - Seriously impressive effects,” commented Professor Mike Cork, Professor of Dermatology at the University of Sheffield. 

Launched in November 2023, Luebcke said the effervescent format offers a better flavour and texture to the syrupy energy gel type format they offered previously which required strong flavours to cover the bitter amino acid. 

The market demand

He explained that the scientist-run team is on the search for route-to-market and commercialisation partners as their biggest challenge is the marketing of the product.

But they know there is a huge market out there with eczema found in 20% of kids and around 5% of adults. 

He explained that strengthening the skin’s barrier gives the product a wide range of skin health benefits, not just for those prone to eczema, but simply for those looking to keep pollution out and keep moisture in. 

“We could additionally appeal to consumers looking for pollution reduction and cosmetic benefits but that all comes down to marketing,” Luebcke said. 

He added that another challenge for the company will be to create new formats for younger consumers, for whom eczema is most prevalent. 

The current product is marketed for those aged 12 and up due to the dose of amino acid but the team aims to bring out a chewable gummy with a lower dose of l-histidine and will look into liquid and syringe format options for infants aged below 24 months.