Victoria Neymann: Crafting a Legacy in Beauty with VERDILAB Skincare
*VERDILAB
*VERDILAB
Victoria Neymann, the CEO and founder of VERDILAB, stands as a testament to the transformative power of bridging medical science with the beauty industry. A third-generation medical doctor, Victoria Neymann's journey from the pharmaceutical sector to the helm of a pioneering skincare brand is nothing short of remarkable. With a background deeply rooted in medical science, she ventured into the pharmaceutical world, where her passion for herbal remedies flourished, before shifting her focus to the cosmetic industry. There, she observed a significant gap in the market: the lack of prestige skincare products that were both scientifically effective and fully natural. This realization sparked the birth of VERDILAB, a brand that seamlessly marries scientific innovation with 100% natural and clean formulas.
At VERDILAB, Victoria Neymann's medical heritage plays a critical role. Her father's groundbreaking work in immunology laid the foundation for the brand's signature ImmunatuRNA® Technology. This technology, a cornerstone of Verdilab's product line, reinforces the skin's natural immune abilities and forms the backbone of their science-driven, all-natural skincare products. This fusion of rigorous scientific method and a commitment to natural ingredients underpins Neymann's philosophy: delivering skincare that is not just effective, but also safe, clean, and environmentally conscious.
Victoria, if you could describe the essence of VERDILAB in one sentence, what would it be?
To me VERDILAB is a new generation of luxury skincare where SCIENTIFIC
INNOVATION meets 100% NATURAL and CLEAN formulas for visible results, backed by clinical proof.
What inspired you to transition from medical science to the beauty industry, and how has your medical background influenced your approach to skincare?
Becoming a medical doctor was the natural path given my family's strong tradition in the field, with both my grandfather and father as pioneers in immunology. However, my inclination towards the practical application of scientific inventions led me on a different journey.
About 20 years ago, I ventured into the pharmaceutical industry, working extensively with herbal remedies and gaining valuable insights into the power of natural medicine.
Then, for 15 years I have worked in the cosmetic industry, being responsible for the strategy, new products development, marketing, and international expansion of different cosmetics brands.
At some point in my career, I saw a big gap in the market as the beauty industry was too slow to embrace the green revolution and lacked transparency in its communication with customers. As a consumer and beauty expert, I could not find any prestige skincare products on the market with scientifically proven effectiveness and at the same time fully natural composition. I realized that if I wanted to create completely unique products, using all my knowledge, in line with my values and beliefs, I had to do it my own way, creating my own brand.
I knew that my father's scientific discovery in the field of immunology had great potential and I could successfully leverage it in cosmetic formulas, providing reinforcement of skin's natural immune abilities. I also wanted to create effective but super safe and clean formulas, completely free from synthetics and controversial compounds with any potential risk for the body (that are unfortunately still used in cosmetics).
VERDILAB was born from this vision, dedicated to offering science-driven and 100% natural skincare that has the power to reinforce natural immune abilities of the skin to make it healthier and looking visibly better due to our exclusive ImmunatuRNA® Technology.
What does 'beauty' mean to you personally, and how has this definition evolved over the course of your career?
As a medical doctor, I would define “beauty” primarily as the healthy condition of our skin. However, the term goes beyond mere appearance; it's a holistic concept that intertwines physical and mental well-being, self-care, confidence, and self-acceptance.
Over the course of my career, my perception of beauty has evolved, shifting towards a search for authenticity, harmony, and a positive approach to aging.
Can you share an example of a scientific breakthrough that significantly influenced one of your products?
I have no doubt that ImmunatuRNA® Technology, a scientific heart of the VERDILAB collection, is our breakthrough innovation that powers its effectiveness with clinical proof to back it up. We are the sole brand harnessing ImmunatuRNA® Technology, that is our patent-pending, proprietary invention, exceptionally effective, and steeped in 50 years of immunology research of my father, the professor in the field. This technology brings transformative results to the skin, boosting its natural immunity, providing natural protection against environmental aggressors, while significantly accelerating the skin's regenerative abilities.
My scientific article featuring our clinical research data on “Skin Beautification with an ImmunatuRNA® Complex: A Natural Complex Based on Yeast RNA and Marine Derivatives on the Human Skin Immunity and Microbiome Composition” was published in the Journal of Immunology and Allergy in November last year and I am extremely proud of this achievement.
And just a few days ago, as if as a Christmas gift to our scientific team, our next article was published in the renowned Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, describing the anti-aging properties of our Technology, titled "The role of the ImmunatuRNA® complex in promoting skin immunity and its regenerative abilities: Implications for antiaging skincare".
Your father's discovery of the unique properties of natural RNA molecules plays a pivotal role in VERDILAB's Signature Complex. Can you discuss how this complex works and its benefits for skin health and immunity?
My father, a Professor of Immunology, discovered the unique power of natural RNA molecules to boost cell regeneration and the body's ability to eliminate toxins by activating the immune system. He spent five decades validating his discovery through very extensive clinical trials on over 10,000 patients with 30 different diseases, including severe skin disorders. He was also granted a patent for the synthesis of natural RNA from yeast – which is the form that I used in our signature IMMUNATURNA® Technology.
The clinically proven benefits of ImmunatuRNA® are remarkable. It significantly accelerates the skin's regenerating abilities, almost doubling the healing properties of the skin. This translates to faster healing of scars, blemishes, or sun damage. ImmunatuRNA® also strengthens the structure of the skin, improving its firmness and elasticity by significantly stimulating the production of new skin cells responsible for collagen synthesis. In addition, it enhances antioxidant cellular protection and longevity of skin cells, combating premature aging caused by environmental stressors. The result is healthier, more radiant and rejuvenated complexion.
VERDILAB offers five distinct dermo protocols. Could you detail the specific focus and key benefits of each protocol?
We offer a concise product collection consisting of 14 regular-sized items, categorized into 5 Dermo Protocols tailored to specific skin needs. Additionally, we have 3 Discovery Sets, which are pre-defined beauty routines in smaller sizes. This approach makes our portfolio straightforward to navigate, with each product serving a distinct purpose.
Each protocol utilizes a set of our unique Active Complexes in high concentrations, consisting of bio-technological natural ingredients that work synergistically to deliver fast and noticeable results.
Dermo protocol No. 1.0 - NATURAL CLEANSING. This protocol provides dual cleansing solutions – a balm and a micro-exfoliating mask. These products take your daily cleaning routine to the next level, easily and pleasantly taking off all your makeup and any accumulated impurities, leaving your skin fresh and relaxed. The active star ingredients here are unquestionably Green Tea and Gotu Kola extracts - both rich in strong antioxidants. There’s also our Marine Prebiotic Complex that supports the health of the skin's microbiome, plus Natural Fruit Acids that come from the fruits and sugars.
Dermo protocol No. 2.0 - SKIN HYDRATION and CELLULAR POLLUTION PROTECTION. This is our super-effective moisturizing and detoxifying probiotic therapy that also protects against environmental aggressors. The unique Symbiotic Complex protects the skin's microbiota, Organic Aloe vera juice in combination with Green Tea extract brings anti-oxidant and regenerating abilities, while vegetable Squalane, Complex of Algae and Snow Mushroom Extract provide intense and long-lasting skin hydration.
Dermo protocol No. 3.0 - GLOWING SKIN ACTIVATION. Our revitalizing treatment, perfect for dull, uneven skin with fine lines and wrinkles. Due to the ultra-stable form of natural Vitamin C and Azelaic acid combined with over 25 superior Marine and Botanical Actives, including Green Retinol from Rock Samphire extract, Phyto-active Complex of precious Saffron Flower and Baobab Tree extracts, Marine Complex of Brown Algae and Sea Moss, this protocol significantly improves skin texture, moisturizes, helps to even skin tone and reduce fine lines.
Dermo protocol No. 4.0 - SKIN PERFECTION. This is the ideal solution for oily and combination skin prone to imperfections, blackheads, or enlarged pores at any age. The products are enriched with potent Multi-acid Complex, 3 types of Zinc, natural α-Bisabolol and botanical waters.
Dermo protocol No. 5.0 - ANTI-AGING CARE and RADIANT COMPLEXION. This collection is dedicated to more mature skin to prevent or diminish the signs of aging, including wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity, lack of radiance. Its luxurious formulas are ultra-rich in actives, including precious Rose Extracts, Resveratrol, Eryngium Stem cells, and Blue Micro-Algae extract.
What are the core principles of your clean beauty standards, and how do you ensure these standards are upheld in your product range?
To me, "clean beauty" is a profound philosophy. It signifies the commitment to crafting cosmetics that are free from any controversial or potentially harmful ingredients, ensuring their safety for both our skin and the environment. That’s why at VERDILAB, we don't just meet industry regulations. We set the bar much higher by introducing our own, VERDILAB’s Clean Beauty and Sustainability rules. We are dedicated to using only 100% natural, ultra-clean, biodegradable, vegan and cruelty-free ingredients in our formulas, prioritizing safety, transparency, and sustainability. We avoid anything that has proven or even suspected risk to harm the body or the environment. Because of that we've banned over 50 groups of substances in our formulas that I truly believe are not good long term, including synthetic fillers, all types of silicones, petroleum derivatives, all synthetic polymers (PEG, PPG, and others), microplastics, nanoplastics, synthetic preservatives (including parabens, phenoxyethanol), sulphates, acrylates, phthalates, synthetic sunscreens, animal-derivatives, alcohol, fragrance allergens and more - the full list is available on our website.
To the best of our knowledge, VERDILAB is one of the cleanest brands available on the market today. On top of that it is safe for even the most sensitive skin.
Our packaging is fully recyclable, we only use glass (even for small product samples) and FCS-certified paper, without any non-recyclable coatings or synthetic sponge inside or cellophane wrap. We aim to be an example of responsible luxury in the beauty industry.
As a third-generation medical doctor, how do you incorporate medical insights into your skincare formulations?
I am obsessed with two things: safety and clinical evidence of effectiveness. In VERDILAB we introduce in-house COSMETIC FORMULATION PROTOCOL based on Green Chemistry know-how, that rigorously defines the principles of formulation.
It assumes creating only 100% natural origin formulas (according to Cosmos Natural and ISO 16128 norms), using standardized marine and botanical actives of the highest quality, with high compatibility to the skin, formulating to minimize the risk of allergic reactions, replacing regular water in VERDILAB formulas with an organic algae serum foraged in UNESCO protected areas in Brittany, to boost formulas’ efficacy.
For clinical research, we cooperate with Swiss, Italian and German independent Institutes to be sure that our products are safe and effective. We run clinical studies supervised by dermatologists for controlled results on all our products as well as ophthalmological tests, if relevant, all on people with sensitive skin to eliminate any risk of use. For every product, we additionally conduct functionality tests, covering besides in-use consumers evaluation also number in-vivo and in-vitro instrumental studies applying different measurements of particular product functions.
How do you balance the scientific aspect of skincare with the aesthetic and sensory experience that consumers seek?
Achieving the best balance between high performance and a unique experience is paramount for me. I am proud that VERDILAB formulations match advanced scientific principles with luxurious textures and captivating fragrances. They provide your skin with unique sensations that you feel immediately, probably because of replacing all synthetic fillers with biomimetic natural compounds. Our consumers love our indulgent textures and say repeatedly that they are truly addictive :)
What is VERDILAB's strategy for global expansion, particularly in new and emerging markets?
Our focus is on reaching forward-thinking customers of prestige skincare worldwide. We aim to connect with those who appreciate the fusion of advanced science and nature in their skincare routines and look for new, disruptive brands with clear points of difference versus conventional prestige brands.
Geographically, our emphasis spans Europe, the US, and Asia in omnichannel with a focus on best perfumeries, clinics and SPAs. In less than two years, VERDILAB is already present in premium retail in Switzerland, Italy, United Kingdom, USA, Singapore, Thailand, with more to follow soon. We’re also intensively developing our own e-commerce, which is gaining loyal consumers from almost all European countries and USA. We look for experienced long-term partners to further expand VERDILAB's international footprint.
What's next for VERDILAB in terms of product innovation? Are there any upcoming launches you can give us a sneak peek into?
We have exciting innovations on the horizon in 2024 that will extend our current offer in key skincare segments. Working on a new product takes us on average about 1.5 years, from the scientific idea, product concept, multiple formulation trials, through clinical studies to production. But there can be no compromises here, so we prioritize quality over speed. While I can't reveal too much, anticipate the launches that will be nicely completing the existing collection.
Reflecting on your journey so far, what has been the most rewarding aspect of founding and leading VERDILAB?
Freedom - to create and implement the boldest ideas.
Creativity unlimited by anyone's sediment.
Independent awards that the brand has received so many in such a short time and which are proof of the recognition by industry experts.
Our partners who believed in us and supported us every day.
Our team that works hard and doesn't give up.
Our consumers, whose positive opinions and delights are the best proof that it was worth sacrificing a lot.
What emerging trends in skincare and wellness do you believe will shape the future of the industry?
Science, personalization, nature and the fusion of beauty with wellness and health will be pivotal. Consumers seek highly performing but also safe cosmetics based on scientific innovations and using innovative biotech ingredients, tailored solutions with clinically proven results, and holistic well-being. Verdilab is poised to lead in these areas, staying at the forefront of industry trends.
Can you walk us through a day in your life as the CEO of VERDILAB? What does your typical day entail?
Oh, in my case it's a very long day :) It usually begins and ends with a gratitude meditation. Working hours fill most of the day, which is full of meetings, operational work and decision-making. When you run your own business, you wear many hats and spend long days at work that never ends. And since I run a business with my husband, business usually extends beyond the home. My days are very dynamic and varied, covering everything from strategy meetings to product development discussions and customer visits. I travel a lot. In the meantime, I try to devote time to scientific research and creativity. I work closely with my team, which is partially dispersed around the world, and I dream to spend much more time with them.
I regret that I haven't really had enough time for sports in recent years, but I dream of finally making up for it, as physical fitness is very important to me. But what I try not to neglect even on the busiest days is music, especially classical, which allows me to relax and literally clear my mind.
As a skincare expert, could you share your personal skincare routine and how it reflects VERDILAB's philosophy?
My beauty routine changes over the seasons. I also use different products in the morning and in the evening. It always starts with a proper skin cleansing. Without that, no other step will be effective. I cleanse with our NOURISHING Rich Cleansing Balm. It helps me to refresh my skin, get rid of excess sebum in the morning or remove my makeup at night. It’s really delicate, but so effective. I apply it on dry skin, let it sit for a few secs, massage it in, and wash it away with lukewarm water. I believe that serums or concentrates should be an essential part of every professional beauty routine. In the morning, I use ACID POWER Imperfections Treating Concentrate, which my combination skin really loves! It has a very light, quickly absorbing formula that tightens the pores and regulates sebum secretion.
Then I take care of the skin around my eyes. This area is super delicate and thin. I use the ULTIMATE LIGHTENING Vitamin C Eye Elixir. It has a liquid texture, and it is very refreshing and light. I adore the beautiful glow it immediately brings to the area around my eyes. As a finishing step in my morning routine, I use our Natural Moisturizer Probiotic Cream - it brings immediate hydration, protects the skin against environmental pollutants, and supports a healthy microbiome.
Are there any specific VERDILAB products that you find indispensable in your daily regimen?
I am convinced a good serum is a game-changer in a daily beauty regimen for any skin, but especially the mature one. I interchangeably use VERDILAB LIFT & GLOW Rose Serum for its immediately tightening effect and well-rested look with VERDILAB RADIANCE POWER Vitamin C Serum for its instant glow and skin perfectioning effect.
*FOLLOW
*FOLLOW
Interview: Jalila Levesque
Photos credit: Verdilab