From Lab to Market. Science-Driven Cosmetics from PK Krakow University of Technology
Our pro-health “Anti-Pollution” skincare line, born in the laboratories of the PK Krakow University of Technology (PK KUT), is making its debut on the Polish and European cosmetics markets. DUOLIFE’s creams are the first to carry the ‘Science & Innovation by PK KUT mark, symbolizing proven research-based quality. These are next-generation cosmetics that act as an invisible shield, protecting the skin from aggressive environmental pollutants, including heavy metals, solar radiation, and blue light.
The Power of Bugle Root
The secret behind these innovative cosmetics lies in an extract from the root of the common bugle (Ajuga reptans L.), a plant found in thousands of Polish gardens and parks. The unique solutions, protected by patents and patent applications, resulted from the research of Magdalena Malinowska, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Professor at CUT, Elżbieta Sikora, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Professor at CUT, and Anna Dziki, M.Sc. Eng., from the Chemistry and Cosmetics Technology research group at the Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology. While skincare has long used bugle leaves and flowers, CUT researchers were the first in the world to explore the root’s cosmetic potential.
Prof. Elżbieta Sikora explains: “We based our innovative cosmetic formulations on a globally common plant. In line with global sustainability trends, using all parts of the plant is both efficient and eco-friendly.” The research produced remarkable results. “The extract from the bugle root surpasses the herb extracts in activity in e.g., radioprotective effects, the ability to remove heavy metals, and in inhibiting the activity of the enzymes tyrosinase and collagenase.” lists Prof. Sikora.
Inhibiting tyrosinase leads to skin brightening and evening out skin tone. Inhibiting collagenase means the extract protects the skin’s collagen structure, enhancing its elasticity. “The root extract also exhibits another crucial ability—binding and removing heavy metal ions. Thus, it protects the skin from the harmful effects of environmental pollution,” adds Prof. Sikora. “It creates an invisible shield against harmful UV and HEV radiation from the sun and digital screens,” says Dziki, M.Sc. Eng.
Scientific Validation and Patents
The multi-directional action of the bugle root extract was confirmed by comprehensive scientific analyses, including instrumental skin analyser tests, consumer studies, and assessments of antioxidant mechanisms. The discovery is protected by two Polish patents, two additional patent applications, and know-how. “The protection covers both the products and the highly efficient extraction process,” says Prof. Malinowska.
The extract is obtained through an eco-friendly process that preserves the full biological activity of its components. Most formula components are of natural origin, and the entire series was created respecting the principles of sustainable development. “Nature gave us power, and we are using it responsibly,” highlights Prof. Sikora.
The First Cosmetics with the “Science & Innovation by PK Krakow University of Technology” Mark
The rights to the innovative bugle root formulations developed at CUT were acquired by the Polish company DUOLIFE S.A., which for 12 years has been producing and selling top-quality dietary supplements and cosmetics. Together with the university’s research team, they created the pioneering DUOLIFE Anti-Pollution series, dedicated especially to residents of cities and large metropolitan areas.
Three technologically advanced creams are now debuting on the market:
- Anti-Pollution Pro Dermo Boost Day Cream
- Anti-Pollution Pro Dermo Repair Night Cream
- Anti-Pollution Pro Multi-Filter SPF50+ Protective Emulsion
All are signed with the “Science & Innovation by PK Krakow University of Technology” mark, a joint brand of the company and the university. This mark emphasizes their scientifically proven foundations and innovation, serving as a guarantee of quality and efficacy. Prof. Magdalena Malinowska emphasizes: “Typical anti-pollution products target one factor. Our creams protect against air pollutants, solar radiation, blue light, and heavy metals—a comprehensive shield for urban skin“. The day cream has an antioxidant effect, binds heavy metals, and leaves the complexion smoothed, moisturized, and radiant with an anti-aging effect. The rich night cream intensively supports skin after daily exposure to pollution and HEV radiation, providing deep regeneration and nourishment during sleep.
From Our Lab to European Markets: A Team Effort
Justyna Godyń, PhD, Head of R&D at DUOLIFE S.A., emphasizes that the decision to invest in the innovative cosmetics based on the university’s solutions was made “without hesitation—within one day of the Demo Day presentation.” The patented, naturally-derived technologies followed a rapid commercialization path—from public presentation in 2023 to market launch in September 2025.
The collaboration allowed for expanding the project with an additional product, the Pro Multi-Filter SPF50+. The inventors proposed necessary formulation modifications for the patent application and tested the biological activity of various recipe variants. Adam Kuc, the University’s patent attorney, assisted with the intellectual property protection for this solution.
Joanna Szypułka from the Technology Transfer Centre of our university shares the recipe for success: “Commercialization is a team game. It involves the scientist, technology broker, patent attorney, lawyer, and the company’s R&D specialists. To this mix, you must add mutual understanding, cooperation, and respect.”
The collaboration between PK Krakow University of Technology and DUOLIFE is set to continue, with new formulas already being developed for future products in the Anti-Pollution series.
