As soon as NCEF [New Cellular Encapsulated Factors] was introduced to the cosmetics market, it quickly established itself as our laboratories’ signature ingredient. This innovative complex is used in almost all of our treatments*, most notably in the FILORGA NCEF-REVERSE range, and was developed thanks to the knowledge of our experts and their research into injections used in aesthetic medicine.
In this article, we’re going to take a close look at the various features of this revolutionary compound, examining its fascinating history, its state-of-the-art encapsulation technology, and the essential nutrients that this unique formula contains.
The story of NCEF
After years of research into skin ageing, Dr Michel Tordjman developed an innovative injectable polyrevitalising solution that supplied the skin with all the nutrients necessary to ensure its optimal performance. In the process, he founded Laboratoires FILORGA in 1978.
The solution, administered as a mesotherapy injection, acts on the factors that most directly influence skin quality, such as hydration, firmness, wrinkles and glow. It is still used by doctors of aesthetic medicine today.
Given the success of these polyrevitalising injections, and with the objective of making their expertise in aesthetic medicine as widely available as possible, Laboratoires FILORGA sought to develop a cosmetic product range built around the same active ingredients as those used in the injections. Naturally, they drew on Dr Tordjman’s original formula.
But there was an initial obstacle: using a cream instead of an injection. How would it be possible to make sure that the active ingredients were properly absorbed by the skin?
Encapsulation: a state-of-the-art technology
To effectively deliver these active ingredients to the skin, FILORGA employs a cutting-edge technique called encapsulation, which was developed through scientific research.
The active ingredients are encapsulated in microscopic, layered carriers called multilamellar liposomes. Each layer is made up of molecules that are biocompatible with the skin, called phospholipids, and the active ingredients are inserted between these.
You could think of these liposomes like a mille-feuille, where each layer is stuffed with cosmetic ingredients.
This structure allows the carriers to cross the skin barrier. As they pass through the skin, the layers dissolve one by one and release the active ingredients into each layer of the skin, all the way down to the dermis.
It is this technology that allows NCEF to properly penetrate the skin.
NCEF’s essential nutrients
NCEF provides elements that are essential for the proper functioning of skin cells while also respecting the skin’s natural mechanisms. Let’s take a look at them.
Hyaluronic acid
We use a particular form of hyaluronic acid: encapsulated high molecular weight hyaluronic acid. Once absorbed, it swells with water, filling intercellular gaps and plumping the skin.
Our hyaluronic acid is of natural origin, and is obtained by biofermentation of wheat bran.
Amino acids
Amino acids are the essential building blocks of proteins, which are required for almost all our vital functions. In skin, for example, they are key components of collagen and elastin.
The human body is able to synthesise many amino acids itself, but some of them can only be acquired through our diet. These are known as essential amino acids and there are nine of them. Examples include leucine, valine, and isoleucine. The remaining 11 that we’re able to make ourselves are called non-essential amino acids and include glycine or proline.
As we age, or if our diet lacks protein, our ability to synthesise protein and therefore collagen and elastin is impaired. This is why Laboratoires FILORGA’s NCEF delivers amino acids directly to where they will be most beneficial to the skin.
Micronutrients
Micronutrients don’t provide us with energy, but they are essential for healthy skin. The vitamins, minerals, and coenzymes found in NCEF act as a kind of catalyst, enabling all cell mechanisms to function optimally.
- The body needs vitamins because they contribute to synthesising and breaking down macromolecules. They are also responsible for regulating cell metabolism. Some vitamins, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, act as antioxidants; they work together to prevent free radicals generated by oxidative stress.
- Coenzymes such as cocarboxylase and coenzyme A promote enzymatic reactions like cell repair.
- Minerals such as magnesium or sodium are involved in a number of physiological processes, including tissue building, regulating water circulation, and enzymatic reactions.
An ultra high-performance antioxidant
Skin needs to be protected to ensure optimal performance of its functions. So, NCEF contains one of the most potent antioxidants, glutathione, to help protect the skin from free radicals and oxidative stress.
NCEF is our laboratories’ signature ingredient and features in all our skincare products*. Explore our FILORGA NCEF-REVERSE range, FILORGA’s ultra-concentrated NCEF skincare products.
*except our sheet masks, micellar solution, and foam cleanser.