Plant stem cells and hydrolyzed proteins

Natural innovation for healthier, more sustainable skin

At Banbu, we believe in cosmetics that combine science, nature, and sustainability. That's why our formulations incorporate advanced plant-derived technologies like plant stem cells and hydrolyzed plant proteins, two active ingredients that stand out for their high dermocosmetic value, proven efficacy, and 100% natural and vegan origin.

But what exactly are these active ingredients? How do they work? What benefits do they offer your skin? And, above all, why do they represent an ethical and effective alternative to other animal- or synthetic-derived active ingredients?

What are plant stem cells and how do they work in cosmetics?

Although the term "stem cells" can cause confusion, in cosmetics, we are talking about cellular extracts obtained from plant meristematic tissues —areas where active growth occurs, such as shoots or roots—. These cells are not alive in the final product, but they do retain a set of active metabolites with high biological power:

• Antioxidants (like flavonoids and vitamin C)

• Polyphenols

• Essential amino acids

• Bioactive enzymes

• Phytohormones (like auxins and gibberellins)

These compounds act through cutaneous biostimulation, meaning they reactivate key cellular functions of human skin without the ingredient itself needing to be biologically active. Various studies have shown that their topical application can:

• Promote epidermal cell regeneration

• Reduce oxidative stress induced by pollution and UV radiation

• Improve the skin barrier function

• Increase elasticity and firmness

• Decrease wrinkle depth

At Banbu, we use cellular extracts from species such as:

• Malus domestica (Swiss apple rich in phytonutrients)

• Eryngium maritimum (marine plant resistant to salt stress)

• Centella asiatica (rich in madecassoside and soothing triterpenes)

These extracts have been the subject of multiple in vitro and in vivo trials, showing positive effects on human keratinocytes, dermal fibroblasts, and reconstructed skin models. The most notable results begin to be observed after 28 days of continuous application, according to studies such as those by Schmid et al. (2008) and Zouboulis et al. (2021).

Hydrolyzed plant proteins: hydration and firmness with a tightening effect

Hydrolyzed plant proteins (from wheat, rice, oats, etc.) are low molecular weight peptides resulting from the controlled fragmentation of complete proteins. This process gives them a special ability to:

• Retain large amounts of water (deep humectant effect)

• Stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis

• Form a tightening film on the skin (immediate lifting effect)

• Soften and soothe sensitive skin

Unlike animal proteins (such as bovine or marine collagen or elastin), hydrolyzed plant proteins exhibit excellent biocompatibility with human skin, without the risk of cross-allergies or ethical conflicts. In addition, they are an effective vegan alternative, with a very low ecological footprint.

A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (Pavicic et al., 2011) demonstrated that hydrolyzed oat extracts improve skin barrier function in just 14 days, strengthening its integrity and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

Natural technology, real efficacy, and active sustainability

Both the plant stem cells and hydrolyzed proteins we use at Banbu come from controlled cell culture, which means:

• No large agricultural areas or seasonal harvests are needed

• Water and natural resource consumption are drastically reduced

• The use of pesticides or aggressive extractives is avoided

• Consistent quality, complete traceability, and optimal purity are guaranteed

Additionally, our suppliers have certifications such as COSMOS, ECOCERT, or NaTrue, which guarantee compliance with demanding environmental and safety criteria in organic cosmetics.

Why we bet on this technology at Banbu

In our conscious formulation, each ingredient must meet three requirements:

1. High cosmetic efficacy, scientifically supported

2. Natural and sustainable origin, with no negative impact on the planet

3. Total safety for the skin and for the most sensitive individuals

Plant stem cells and hydrolyzed proteins meet these conditions. And they allow us to offer you products that deeply care for your skin, from an innovative, respectful, and ethically formulated approach.

Technical bibliography of reference

• Schmid, D. et al. (2008). Plant stem cell extract for longevity of skin cells, SOFW Journal.

• Zouboulis, C.C. et al. (2021). Advances in understanding and treating aging skin, Experimental Dermatology.

• Pavicic, T. et al. (2011). Efficacy of oat-derived hydrolized proteins in improving skin barrier function, International Journal of Cosmetic Science.

• Technical data from COSMOS / ECOCERT certified suppliers.