New bio-identical collagen III powered by AI

BASF and Bota Biosciences have collaborated to introduce SkinNexus™ Collag3n, a 100% human-identical recombinant Collagen III fragment.

Bio-identical collagen III is revolutionising the personal care industry. This innovative ingredient, developed using AI-driven technology, is vegan, sustainable and designed to enhance skincare performance.

What is bio-identical collagen III?

Bio-identical collagen III is a recombinant collagen fragment produced through yeast fermentation. It mimics human collagen III, a key protein for skin elasticity and firmness. BASF and Bota Biosciences utilised Bota’s Physical AI–driven biofoundry and BASF’s expertise in cosmetic actives to create this groundbreaking ingredient.

Development and innovation

Over 2 000 collagen fragments were screened during the development process. By running discovery and industrial feasibility work in parallel, the teams ensured scalable production. This approach highlights the power of AI in accelerating biomanufacturing.

Laboratory and clinical trials demonstrated the efficacy of bio-identical collagen III. In 3D dermis models, it supported collagen homeostasis, increasing Collagen I by 48%, Collagen III by 82%, and Collagen V by 71%. Clinical trials with women aged 53 to 70 showed significant reductions in sagging and wrinkles after just four weeks, outperforming a collagen benchmark used at 10× concentration.

Global commercialisation and expert insights

BASF will commercialise SkinNexus™ Collag3n globally for the personal care market. The product debuted at in-cosmetics Global in April 2026, marking a significant milestone in sustainable skincare innovation.

“SkinNexus™ Collag3n reflects our commitment to high-performance, science-based innovation. Bota Biosciences was the partner of choice to combine strong efficacy with industrial scalability,” says Lucilene Veira Nunes, global business management BASF Beauty Care Solutions.

Dr. Cheryl Cui, founder and CEO of Bota Biosciences, adds: “This collaboration is proof that physical AI for biomanufacturing can turn cutting-edge science into commercial, sustainable and high-performance ingredients. Together with BASF, we are setting new standards for bio-identical actives in personal care.”

The introduction of bio-identical collagen III underscores the potential of AI-driven biomanufacturing partnerships. This sustainable, high-performance ingredient is set to transform the cosmetics industry, offering consumers effective and ethical skincare solutions.