Progressive Skin Science ™ How to Choose a Growth Factor Product Growth factors are the hottest new trend in anti-aging and rejuvenating skin care. There are many products on the market that contain growth factors, but not all growth factor ingredients are created equal. Quality in production determines the efficacy of the final product. If you are shopping around for a growth factor product to offer your patients or you are considering adding a growth factor product to your private label line, the following key points can help you ask the right questions to make an informed decision. 1. The manufacturing process of growth factor ingredients is the first factor to consider. Bad practices here will result in an inferior product that does not deliver results. Suppliers should be able to satisfactorily explain their production processes. Ask about the following variables: a. The type of cells used: Fibroblast cells are best. b. The purity of the cells: Purity should be 97%–100%. c. Culturing method: The 3-D for two days method produces the best culture. d. Media collection method: Should use a natural pH and no detergents and take measures to prevent protein breakdown (denaturing). 2. The source cells should come from within the U.S. Cells from the United States are tested for bacteria, viruses, and other infectious diseases. Also, cells should come from a source that adheres to the ethical standards rules put forth by the FDA. 3. Make sure the cells used are human. Since the products are used for humans, it is important to use growth factors that are produced by human cells so they are easily recognized by the skin and can replace the growth factors that diminish as we age. 4. Choose an FDA-licensed facility. This ensures stringent standards of cleanliness and quality control that general cosmetic labs are not required to adhere to. The FDA conducts periodic inspections of the lab and production areas of FDA-licensed manufacturers, and those found in non-compliance can have their licenses revoked. FDA-licensed manufacturers have superior quality control, strict contamination and stability testing, a sterile environment, experienced staff, and certified equipment. 5. Check for multiple growth factors within a formula. Each growth factor is responsible for specific functions, and some growth factors can only work in the presence of others. In general, all growth factors work in concert, so it is best to have multiple growth factor combinations to see satisfactory results and benefits. 6. All quality multiple growth factor formulas should contain at least the following components: TGF-beta, IL-3, IL-6, IL-7, and IL-8. 7. Beware rock-bottom prices. The old adage “you get what you pay for” can not be more true for growth factors. The technology is not cheap and neither are ethically sourced, high-quality cells. While the most expensive line is not necessarily the best choice, steer clear of lines that are priced much lower than others because this probably indicates a low-quality product. Taking short cuts to reduce costs equals poor results and a waste of your (and your patients’) time and money. BENEV: Your best choice for safety, quality, and results in growth factor treatments BENEV is on the cutting edge of growth factor technology for cosmeceuticals. The BENEV GF line was developed by a team of BENEV chemists and University of California research scientists who have extensively studied the anti-aging effects of growth factors. Like all BENEV products, GF Complex, GF-DNA Serum, and GF Hair Care products are all produced in our FDA-licensed drug manufacturing facility. The growth factor proteins come from high-quality, human cells obtained from a U.S. source, and they are produced and collected using well-documented scientific methods to ensure safety and purity. BENEV’s highly concentrated GF product formulas are based on the latest research into the anti-aging and skin rejuvenating effects of growth factors, and they contain multiple growth factors for maximum results. BENEV Company Inc. 23263 Madero, Suite A, Mission Viejo, CA 92691, USA www.BENEV.com 949-457-2222, 949-457-2221, fax