HEMERYNE: Charting the Future of Urban Defence Skincare with Valentina Roncaglia
*HEMERYNE
*HEMERYNE
In today’s urban jungles, where pollution and digital exposure are relentless, the quest for a skincare solution that transcends conventional protection has been met with groundbreaking innovation by HEMERYNE. Spearheaded by the vision of Valentina Roncaglia, HEMERYNE emerges as a harbinger of a new skincare ethos, specifically tailored for the modern urbanite. This new Italian brand is not merely responding to trends but setting a new benchmark in skincare, advocating for a regimen that is as environmentally conscious as it is protective.
In this conversation, Valentina unveils her personal crusade against the skincare clutter and her acute awareness of urban environmental aggressors. As we delve into HEMERYNE’s core, particularly through its flagship product, URBAN DEFENCE SPF30, we unpack the meticulous science and thoughtful philosophy that address a spectrum of urban skin stressors—from the insidious reach of air pollutants to the pervasive glow of blue light. Embark on this journey with us as we explore how HEMERYNE is crafting the future of skincare, offering a potent and sustainable shield for skin in the age of urbanization and digital dominance.
If you could describe the essence of HEMERYNE in one sentence, what would it be?
Achieve more with less.What personal experiences inspired the inception of HEMERYNE?
In 2019, I realized I was using too many products for my daily skincare. I would often find myself throwing them away unfinished, since new, more promising products were being released on the market, or because they had been open for a while and did not look fresh to me anymore. And I had a point - putting an oxidized, congealed, and contaminated product on my skin has never appealed to me. I don't know about you!
So, I decided - in my small way - to try and do something to lessen the burden of the 120 billion packages produced each year by the cosmetics industry. I did so by adopting a skincare routine that is essential at its fullest—just three steps: I cleanse, moisturize, and of course, protect myself.Can you tell us about the journey that led to the creation of your debut product, URBAN DEFENCE SPF30?
Just by looking at my bathroom shelf, I thought I could combine two out of the three steps of the skinimalist routine: hydration and protection because we've all come to realize that the protection step is now essential. I have always used SPF, and I started to see it as a significant issue because some time ago, I had a minor skin problem that my dermatologist attributed to pollution: it was discolored and slightly stained. Therefore, one of the first things I thought of developing was an SPF that had other features within it that I found separately in the many beauty products present in my skincare routine. With the help of the laboratory, I managed to incorporate these functions into a product that offered broad protection (and today, it cannot only be from the sun but also pollution).HEMERYNE emphasizes protection for city dwellers. What specific urban skin stressors does URBAN DEFENCE SPF30 address?
Well, pollution is a major concern. Over half the world lives in cities, hosting 1.2 billion vehicles. Urban pollution leads to City Syndrome, stressing the skin with dullness, enlarged pores, spots, and wrinkles. Adding to this, the blue light from screens accelerates aging by triggering oxidative stress. Scared now? :)URBAN DEFENCE is a "waterless mineral-based protection." Could you elaborate on the significance of being waterless for skincare products?
Modern products often prioritize profit and longevity. Water, commonly used as a filler, can harbor germs, necessitating preservatives linked to health issues. Water-based beauty items may seem hydrating but often dry out the skin and lead to reactions. Introducing waterless products like URBAN DEFENCE SPF30 means no dilution, no preservatives, and a higher concentration of active ingredients, minimizing resource waste and environmental impact.How does the Anti-Pollution & Blue Light Shield complex in URBAN DEFENCE work to protect the skin?
At HEMERYNE, our Anti-Pollution Complex is a skincare champion. We use Sericin, a sustainably sourced silk protein from textile waste, creating a natural shield against pollutants, while ensuring zero waste. This compound acts as a natural shield, creating a protective film that not only imparts emollient and moisturizing effects but also serves as a formidable barrier against air pollutants. Recent studies showed a 17.37% reduction in the deposition of airborne particles, proving its effectiveness. The Blue Light Shield Complex, with carotenoids from carrot extract, protects against blue light and enhances skin tone for a radiant look.With the inclusion of Bio-Retinol, Vitamin E, and CBD crystals, what are the anticipated benefits for users of URBAN DEFENCE SPF30?
Bio-Retinol, our plant-powered alternative to retinol, is like a superhero for your skin: it fights wrinkles, refines texture, and keeps your skin looking fabulous. It's even perfect for lip care with its special moisturizing touch.
Vitamin E, on the other hand, is a powerful antioxidant that repairs damage from sun, smoke, and pollution. It fights off aging signs, hydrates, repairs collagen, and shields against UV rays. Your skin will thank you with a radiant glow!The choice of CBD crystals is intriguing. Why did you opt for this form of CBD, and how does it enhance the product?
I started exploring the CBD industry in 2019. The choice of CBD isolate stems from our commitment to offer a skin-safe product because CBD crystals ensure the absence of molds, pesticide residues, and terpenes that could stain the skin. Moreover, while the benefits of CBD on the skin are well-studied, limited data on other cannabinoids (totaling 113) restrict their inclusion in cosmetic formulas. Only a few have been studied, and only one is permitted: the one we included among our ingredients.URBAN DEFENCE SPF30 is described as an "invisible daily barrier." How did you achieve a formula that is both potent and imperceptible on the skin?
It's an invisible and absorbable shield because, despite the physical filter, there is no leftover white cast.How does HEMERYNE's approach to skincare differ from other brands in the market?
Effective and essential formulations are at the core of HEMERYNE's skincare philosophy, embracing a skinimalist approach that emphasizes doing more with fewer products.How do you envision the evolution of skincare routines in response to increasingly urban lifestyles?
More and more multitasking, technological, and performance-oriented.What advice would you give to consumers looking to protect their skin from urban stressors?
An indispensable element in the anti-aging regimen, our protective milk acts as an ally, guarding the skin against the sun's rays – primary catalysts for aging. Opting for a physical filter is a smart choice, as it reflects light, in contrast to chemical filters that inadequately absorb reflected radiation.Could you share any personal skincare tips or routines that have influenced the creation of HEMERYNE's products?
My skincare philosophy centers on waterless and efficient products. Opting for formulations without water aligns with HEMERYNE's commitment to eco-conscious solutions, ensuring concentrated, effective ingredients for a sustainable and impactful routine.What feedback or insights from potential users influenced the final formulation of URBAN DEFENCE SPF30?
During some small talk at dinner with friends, we realized that we all have concerns about skin aging and are quite aware of the effects of pollution, not just on our overall health but also on our skin. These casual conversations greatly influenced the final formulation of URBAN DEFENCE SPF30.
Can you share any upcoming projects or product lines that HEMERYNE is currently working on?
Of course :) We are working on two formulations that would complete the skincare line, adding two more efficient products (a cleanser and a serum). We are also striving to make the packaging even more sustainable. Stay in the loop!
Finally, what message do you wish to convey to those who are discovering HEMERYNE and URBAN DEFENCE SPF30 for the first time?
That our skin deserves daily, uncomplicated care and that the result can be achieved more efficiently with high-performance products