Creating the Future of Skin Health Together

The Hidden Cost of Beauty

The products we use to look good can harm the health of our skin. Many cosmetics and skincare formulas rely on preservatives and harsh chemicals that disrupt the skin’s protective layer of good bacteria, known as the skin microbiome. When this invisible defense system is compromised, it can lead to premature aging, inflammation, wrinkles, breakouts, irritation and dryness.

News of the skin microbiome is spreading fast—thanks to voices like skincare experts Dr. Whitney Bowe, Hyram Yarbro and others—who have made the microbiome one of the most talked-about topics on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Cosmetics and skincare users are demanding cleaner, smarter products that support their skin.

When your skin microbiome is disrupted, it can impact those closest to you. This especially impacts babies and children, whose microbiomes are still forming and are far more sensitive. Even by a simple brush of the face or a kiss could alter their microbiome.

The beauty world is paying attention. Forward-thinking brands like Gallinée and L’Oréal are moving toward formulas that support and protect the skin’s microbiome, understanding that healthy skin starts with microbial balance. But there’s a problem: many products that say they’re “microbiome-friendly” still use old-fashioned preservatives that continue to disrupt the skin’s ecosystem.

Claromer™: The Future of Clean Beauty

Skin deserves more than just clean—it deserves protection powered by nature’s own design.

Maxwell Biosciences has introduced a breakthrough class of molecules called Claromers™ into the world of cosmetics and personal care. These small, stable, synthetic molecules mimic part of the human immune system, helping defend skin’s surface from unwanted microbial buildup without harming skin's natural balance.

No antibiotics. No alcohols. No irritation.

Claromers™ work on contact to gently defend against external threats while keeping the good bacteria skin needs to thrive.

Gentle Protection. Powerful Results.

Ideal for…

  • Mascara & eyeliner: prevent contamination over time

  • Foundation & concealer: stay safe with every application

  • Face creams & moisturizers: protect skin integrity

  • Lipsticks & glosses: reduce microbial transfer

  • Makeup applicators: help reduce bacterial spread between uses

  • Natural deodorants & wipes: maintain long-lasting freshness without harsh chemicals

  • Scalp and hair care: keep it clean, naturally

Why Claromers™ Matter

Most cosmetics are touched daily by fingers, brushes, lashes, lips. Over time, microbes build up. Bacteria, fungi and even viruses can grow inside favorite products, sometimes reaching harmful levels.

Claromers™ are engineered to:

  • Defend without disrupting: Target unwanted microbes without damaging skin

  • Last longer: Thermally stable and shelf-stable for years

  • Play well with others: Compatible with standard formulations

No preservatives. No parabens. No compromise.

Real Problem. Real Data.

Makeup contamination is real. Here’s what the research shows:

  • Between 79% and 90% of opened cosmetic products become contaminated with bacteria, including harmful strains such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (1).

  • Pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus can lead to skin infections like folliculitis and impetigo, while Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been associated with dermatitis, skin inflammation, and eye infections (conjunctivitis, keratitis) (2).

  • Yeast species like Candida albicans and molds such as Aspergillus can contaminate cosmetics, causing fungal infections and allergic skin reactions—especially in sensitive individuals (3).

These contaminants enter products through regular use, exposure to air, shared tools like brushes or sponges and insufficient antimicrobial protection within cosmetic formulations (4).

Integrating safe, broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents like Claromers™ into cosmetic products significantly reduces contamination risks, protecting consumer skin health.

References

(1) Bashir, Amina, et al. "Microbiological Quality of Cosmetic Products Used by Consumers." Journal of Applied Microbiology, vol. 128, no. 2, 2020, pp. 598-605. Wiley Online Library, doi:10.1111/jam.14479.

(2) Orus, Pilar, et al. "Microbial Contamination in Cosmetics: Risk Assessment." Cosmetics, vol. 3, no. 1, 2016, pp. 1-14. MDPI, doi:10.3390/cosmetics3010003.

(3) Dadashi, Leila, and Fatemeh Dehghanzadeh. "Bacterial Contamination of Cosmetic Products: A Review." Journal of Occupational Health, vol. 61, no. 4, 2019, pp. 297-302. Oxford Academic, doi:10.1002/1348-9585.12049.

(4) Lundov, Michael D., et al. "Microbial Quality of Cosmetic Products and Applicators in Beauty Salons." Contact Dermatitis, vol. 59, no. 2, 2008, pp. 118-125. Wiley Online Library, doi:10.1111/j.1600-0536.2008.01501.x.

Want to learn more about the skin microbiome?

Join the Movement

The future of skincare begins here. Maxwell Biosciences is partnering with leading beauty brands to bring microbiome-safe technology to everyday products. Together, we’re setting a new standard—cosmetics that enhance beauty while respecting the skin’s natural defenses.

True care means supporting skin in every way, in every household.

Benefits

  • Broad-spectrum activity (bacteria, fungi, enveloped viruses)

  • Biofilm disruption at low concentration

  • Preserves commensal flora

  • No known resistance

  • Long shelf life and thermal stability

Applications

  • Skincare creams, gels and serums

  • Personal hygiene products

  • Post-procedural dermal care

  • Scalp and hair treatments

  • Natural deodorants and acne treatments