Julie Leignadier
Biological R&D Manager - Lucas Meyer Cosmetics by Clariant
After earning her PhD in Montreal, culminating five years of research on the modulation and signaling of memory T cell receptors in the immune system, she pursued an eight-year postdoctoral career.
In Swiss and French laboratories, she led multiple projects in immunology and oncology, supervised teams, and contributed to the development of innovative scientific strategies.
Since 2020, she has been Head of the Biological Platform and Project Manager at Lucas Meyer Cosmetics by Clariant. In this role, she oversees the development of new sustainable and innovative active ingredients for the cosmetic industry, while contributing to the scientific and strategic valorization of existing portfolio ingredients.
Presentation
Modulating sweat gland bioelectricity: an innovative approach to reduce body odour and improve consumer well-being
Bioelectricity, though imperceptible, is ubiquitous in the body and plays a fundamental role in cellular communication and in the regulation of many physiological processes, including sweating. Eccrine and apocrine glands, involved in thermoregulation, secrete sweat that notably contains lipids and proteins. These substrates are then metabolized by the skin microbiota, generating volatile organic compounds responsible for body odour. In cases of hyperhidrosis, these phenomena can impair quality of life, affect self-esteem, and lead to discomfort, irritation, and unwanted odours.
We present a natural active ingredient of Australian origin, derived from kanuka leaves, capable of modulating the bioelectrical activity of sweat glands through a targeted action on their ion channels, thereby helping regulate sweat production. This modulation also extends to the skin microbiota: by influencing its bioelectrical activity, the active limits the bacterial metabolism involved in the formation of volatile organic compounds responsible for odours.
These highly innovative in vitro results were corroborated by two double-blind clinical studies, benchmarked against a comparator with a mainly mechanical mode of action for sweat control, confirming the efficacy and relevance of this targeted biological approach.
Lucas Meyer Cosmetics by Clariant, founded in 1999 and based in Quebec, Canada, is a major player in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of innovative ingredients for the cosmetics and personal care industry. The company specializes in high-value active ingredients, functional ingredients, and delivery systems of natural and biotechnological origin.
Its core mission is to develop pioneering solutions that combine scientific innovation with respect for nature, addressing the sophisticated needs of the market. Lucas Meyer Cosmetics’ values are built on three pillars: innovation through nature, a customer-centric approach, and a strong commitment to sustainability.
Aligned with Clariant’s sustainable development strategy, the company aims to promote a circular economy, responsible sourcing, and a reduced environmental footprint, while creating meaningful connections between products and consumers.