What Zenakine™?

A neurocosmetic ingredient for stressed skin 

Zenakine™ is a biotech-based neurocosmetic ingredient designed to support the skin’s natural response to stress by working in harmony with its biological rhythms. 

It was developed and brought to market through a collaboration that combined research from the University of Manchester, biotechnology expertise from a UK university spin-out company, and Croda’s commercialisation and manufacturing capabilities. 

Neurocosmetics are products designed to support the interaction between the skin and the nervous system and are emerging as a key area of growth, bridging skincare, wellbeing and advanced science.  

As consumers increasingly look for skincare solutions that support both skin health and overall wellbeing, innovations like Zenakine™ are shaping a new generation of science-led beauty actives. 

By helping to maintain skin balance under stress, Zenakine™ contributes to improved skin vitality and a more refreshed, resilient appearance. 

How does stress affect the skin?

The connection between emotional wellbeing and skin health is an increasingly important area of research and innovation. 

Environmental and lifestyle pressures can disrupt the skin’s natural balance, contributing to stress-related skin concerns such as fatigue, sensitivity and premature ageing.  

As a result, consumers are seeking solutions that go beyond traditional skincare to address these underlying stress-related effects. 
 

What is the science behind Zenakine™? 

Zenakine™ is created through a controlled Lactobacillus fermentation process where beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria are cultured using biotechnology, then processed into a ferment lysate containing this naturally occurring bioactive. 

At its core, it works in sync with the skin’s circadian rhythms; the internal cycles that regulate repair, protection and renewal. 

When these rhythms are disrupted by stress, skin can become less efficient at maintaining its barrier and repairing itself. Zenakine™ helps to reinforce this natural balance by supporting the skin’s response to stress and promoting optimal physiological function. 

The ingredient also helps stimulate key signalling pathways in the skin associated with emotional wellbeing and resilience, supporting the skin’s natural response to stress by stimulating β-endorphin production, helping to improve skin wellbeing and radiance.  

What are the benefits of Zenakine for skin? 

Zenakine has been developed to deliver multi-dimensional benefits aligned with modern skincare needs: 

• Supports the skin’s response to stress 
  Helping improve resilience against physical and emotional stressors while maintaining skin balance. 
• Reduces visible signs of fatigue 
  Contributes to smoother-looking skin with reduced appearance of lines and signs of tiredness. 
• Enhances skin vitality 
  Supports a more refreshed, well-rested appearance through improved skin function.  
• Science-led performance 
  Developed using advanced biotechnology and supported by clinical evaluation protocols. 
• Designed with sustainability in mind 
  100% natural-origin content (ISO 16128), readily biodegradable, and compliant with COSMOS and RSPO standards. 

Why are neurocosmetic ingredients gaining attention? 

The boundaries between skincare and wellbeing are becoming increasingly blurred. Consumers are seeking products that not only deliver visible results but also support overall balance and resilience. 

Neurocosmetics represent a shift towards holistic, science-led skincare, where ingredients are designed to work with the body’s natural systems rather than simply treating surface-level concerns. 

Zenakine™ reflects this evolution, combining biotechnology, skin chronobiology and neurocosmetic science to address the impact of stress on skin health. 

A new approach to skincare innovation?

Zenakine™ is part of Croda’s broader commitment to developing high-performance ingredients that improve lives while protecting the planet.  

By supporting the connection between skin function, stress response and overall wellbeing, it represents a new approach to skincare innovation, that is rooted in biology, backed by science and aligned with emerging consumer needs. 

Explore the biotech and trends creating innovative new actives for skincare and longevity below.