Biotechnology has impacted cosmetics in many ways. Cosmetics companies use biotechnology both to discover and manufacture components of cosmetics and to evaluate the effects of natural and synthetic compounds on skin and skin changes associated with aging. The compounds they discover and use in cosmetics are called "cosmeceuticals." In particular they have been investigating products related to collagen production and antioxidants.
One of the most famous biotechnology products is Botox. This protein is made by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. Botox minimizes wrinkles by paralyzing nerve cells.
Other companies have been working on systems for cosmeceutical discovery. L'Oreal has a developed an artificial human skin that can be used to test the irriation potential of new products without using animals.
