Innovation
Chemyunion Invests in Supercritical CO₂ Extraction
06/05/2025 By Chemyunion
Clean and efficient technology gives rise to high-performance ingredients such as Physavie® 250 MB, Revinage® MB, and Agen, designed for skin care with a focus on safety, efficacy, and conscious consumption
In response to the growing demand for solutions that combine innovation, sustainability, and well-being, Chemyunion reinforces its commitment to green cosmetics by investing in clean extraction processes, such as the use of supercritical CO₂. This technology, already adopted for the production of ingredients like Revinage® MB, Physavie® 250 MB, and Agen, enables the extraction of plant-based compounds with high purity, without the use of organic solvents, and with significantly reduced environmental impact.
Supercritical CO₂ extraction represents a sustainable advancement over traditional methods, which typically require high water usage, petroleum-derived solvents, and generate more waste. Due to its non-toxic, non-flammable, and recyclable nature, CO₂ used in the process ensures handling safety, efficient extraction of actives, and lower environmental impact. Moreover, this technique achieves concentrations up to 40 times higher than conventional methods, resulting in more potent and stable ingredients.
“We understand that sustainability begins with process choices. By integrating green technologies like supercritical extraction, we not only minimize environmental impact but also deliver highly effective and safe ingredients to consumers,” states Chemyunion’s Research & Development team.
This innovative process gives rise to ingredients such as Revinage® MB, a plant-based active with performance similar to synthetic retinoids, but without their associated side effects. Derived from the Bidens pilosa plant, Revinage® MB helps reduce wrinkles, even skin tone, and restore lip texture, making it suitable for all skin types. It offers a natural, sustainable alternative for those seeking retinol-like benefits with greater safety and stability.
Physavie® 250 MB, obtained from Physalis angulata through the same green process, features soothing properties comparable to corticosteroids, without causing irritation or adverse effects. COSMOS-certified, it is recommended for sensitive skin, offering anti-inflammatory action, stimulation of the extracellular matrix, and protection against blue light and infrared radiation. It can even be incorporated into sunscreens to enhance protection against harmful radiation without compromising SPF efficacy.
Agen, also developed using this technology, features an anti-aging active that synergistically combines apple extract and supercritical ginger extract. With a focus on epigenetic action and collagen biostimulation, this ingredient promotes skin firmness, elasticity, and redensification.
Chemyunion follows an integrated sustainability approach, maintaining full control over its supply chain - from organic cultivation to the final processing of actives - and collaborates with suppliers aligned with its sociais and environmental policies to ensure full traceability.
By continuously investing in responsible innovation, the company positions itself as a strategic partner for brands committed to developing sustainable, effective formulations that meet the expectations of today’s conscious consumer.