Health-promoting cosmetics from the “Anti-Pollution” line, developed by scientists at Cracow University of Technology (CUT), are entering the Polish and European markets. DUOLIFE creams are the first products to bear the “Science & Innovation by Cracow University of Technology” quality mark featuring the university’s logo. They use patented technologies based on an extract from the root of Ajuga reptans L.—a plant commonly found in Poland—and provide effective, natural protection for the skin against environmental pollutants, UV radiation, and blue light.
The innovative solutions were developed by a research team from the Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology at Cracow University of Technology: Dr. Eng. Magdalena Malinowska, Associate Professor at CUT; Dr. Eng. Elżbieta Sikora, Associate Professor at CUT; and M.Sc. Eng. Anna Dziki. The researchers were the first in the world to focus on the cosmetic potential of the Ajuga reptans L. root, which had previously not been described in scientific literature. Their findings proved groundbreaking—the root extract showed greater activity than leaf extracts, particularly in protecting skin against radiation, chelating heavy metals, and inhibiting enzymes responsible for discoloration and collagen degradation.
The journey from presenting the invention at Cracow University of Technology’s Demo Day in 2023 to its commercialization took only two years. DUOLIFE S.A.—a manufacturer of high-quality supplements and cosmetics—quickly decided to acquire the rights to the innovative formulations. As a result of collaboration between scientists and technologists, three advanced cosmetic products were created: Anti-Pollution Pro Dermo Boost Day Cream (Patent No. 246899), Anti-Pollution Pro Dermo Repair Night Cream (Patent No. 246900), and Anti-Pollution Pro Multi-Filter SPF50+ (Patent application P.452315).
All products were developed in accordance with sustainable development principles—no high temperatures or harmful radiation are used in the extraction process, and the formulations rely mainly on natural ingredients.
The “Anti-Pollution” cosmetics line meets the needs of city residents who face smog, screen radiation, and heavy metal exposure every day. These are the first products bearing the Cracow University of Technology quality mark to reach the market in Poland and Europe, confirming that university innovations can make a tangible difference in everyday life.
The partnership between CUT and DUOLIFE will continue, with plans to develop additional products in this cosmetic line.
