Colostrum is the first milk produced after a calf is born, naturally rich in proteins, peptides, lipids and growth factors. These include EGF, IGF and TGF: messengers involved in the skin’s natural renewal processes.
Skin-cell models have explored how bovine colostrum influences the natural development and maturation of skin cells. Its distinctive composition makes colostrum a compelling care complex for skin that looks smoother, feels supple and appears visibly refreshed.
Growth factors
Growth factors are naturally occurring messenger proteins that help coordinate the activity of skin cells.
EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor) is a naturally occurring protein—a small polypeptide made up of 53 amino acids. It sends signals that encourage cells to grow and divide and take part in repair processes. In the skin, these signals support natural renewal and a smoother-looking surface.
IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) is involved in signals that influence collagen-producing skin cells. Collagen helps give the skin firmness and elasticity.
TGF-β (Transforming Growth Factor beta) helps coordinate repair processes and supports collagen formation, which contributes to the skin’s structure and strength.
Care that begins at the source
At Sainte Beauté, the quality of colostrum begins on specially selected farms. It is collected within no more than five hours after calving, when valuable natural constituents are present at their highest levels.
The bioactive components are then processed and concentrated using specialised filtration and dialysis techniques. Sainte Beauté holds a special authorisation to process colostrum, certified food establishment No. 8770.
For skin that feels renewed and deeply cared for
Colostrum’s natural proteins and peptides give the care complex its richness. Together with lipids and amino acids, they support a soft, supple and well-nourished skin feel. The growth factors add another dimension to this remarkable matrix, through their connection with the skin’s natural renewal processes.
Colostrum is more than an exceptional ingredient. It is a carefully prepared essence that brings regenerative care together with a feeling of comfort and softness – for skin that looks fresh, feels restored and appears full of vitality.
References
Kovacs D, Maresca V, Flori E, et al. Bovine colostrum induces the differentiation of human primary keratinocytes. FASEB J. 2020;34(5):6302–6321.
Sihra N, et al. Milk Proteins—Their Biological Activities and Use in Cosmetics and Dermatology. Molecules.2021;26(17):5188.
Sacerdote P, Mussano F, Franchi S, et al. Biological components in a standardized derivative of bovine colostrum. J Dairy Sci. 2013;96(3):1745–1754.
Boonstra J, Rijken P, Humbel B, Cremers F, Verkleij A, van Bergen en Henegouwen P. “The epidermal growth factor.” Cell Biology International. 1995;19(5):413–430. doi:10.1006/cbir.1995.1086.
Blumenberg M. “Profiling and metaanalysis of epidermal keratinocytes responses to epidermal growth factor.” BMC Genomics. 2013;14:85.
Noordam R, et al. “Serum insulin-like growth factor 1 and facial ageing: high levels associate with reduced skin wrinkling in a cross-sectional study.” British Journal of Dermatology. 2013;168(3):533–538.
Beanes SR, Dang C, Soo C, Ting K. “Skin repair and scar formation: the central role of TGF-beta.” Expert Reviews in Molecular Medicine. 2003;5(8):1–22.
Narayanan AS, Page RC, Swanson J. “Collagen synthesis by human fibroblasts: regulation by transforming growth factor-beta in the presence of other inflammatory mediators.” Biochemical Journal. 1989;260(2):463–469.
