Interview with Anna Mazurkiewicz, Science4Beauty.
The beauty landscape is changing, and the message is clear: fewer, better products are not just simplifying routines—they’re reshaping the definition of beauty itself in a more thoughtful and sustainable way. We need products that are effective, functional, instead of overhyped products and complex routines: authentic multi-functional, high quality beauty products with minimal ingredients, that deliver what they promise.
This movement toward minimalism isn’t just a fleeting trend—it represents a cultural shift that aligns with values of sustainability, authenticity, and intentionality. For consumers, the promise of decluttering their routines and returning to essentials feels both liberating and responsible.
Innovation is both a scientific discipline and a cultural concept, making it challenging to achieve and manage.
Innovation and disruption are concepts that get thrown around a lot. Disruption is the byproduct of true innovation. Real innovators disrupt by long-term thinking and imagining the impossible—they don’t peddle in quick fixes and gimmicks.
Science you can trust, result you can see.
Science4Beauty is been at the forefront of the biotech revolution. The brand has been researching, developing, and manufacturing active ingredients inspired by nature—realized by science for the cosmetic and nutraceutical industries. The Polish company has earned a reputation for its innovative approach and use of cutting-edge technology in biotechnology and biochemistry. Recognized as valued partner from multiple medical beauty centers and clinics.
Its scientists transform naturally derived compounds into truly functional bioactive cosmetic ingredients using state-of-the-art technologies that guarantee optimum bioavailability and ensure maximum effectiveness. All actives are supported by a biochemical concept, clinical studies—in vitro and in vivo—and considerable scientific documentation, which includes formulation guidelines, the unique USP oft he brand and the full inhouse production.
The line features potent creams and at home treatments as replacement to invasive and botox treatments, but as a completely safe, natural, sensual and cheerful beauty ritual. The flagship achievement Miorelaxant Magic is as next-generation vegan skincare product able to relax facial muscles thanks to the proprietary recombinant conotoxin, originally found in the venom of marine cone snails. Instant, absolutely one of a kind effect mimicing the effect of a botox treatment.
The formulation works with the power of bioemimetic peptides, inulin, low molecular hyaluronic acid, ectoine, glycosides, vitamins, phytosterols and many other precious ingredients that significantly reduce wrinkles, provide elasticity, skin density, intensive moisturization, regeneration and support of the microbiome.
We have talked with the Co-founder, PhD Anna Mazurkiewicz-Pisarek.
– You are the embodiment of anminnovative entrepreneur. How did the study of molecular biology lead you to the cosmetic industry?
My background in molecular biology provided a solid foundation that allowed me to understand the complexity of biological processes and the interactions between active ingredients and the skin in depth. Understanding these mechanisms, as well as the ability to influence (these processes) them were key on the path to creating effective, safe, and innovative products. That is why, while I worked on conotoxin with analgesic effect for medical applications, I knew that this group of peptides had a lot of potential in other areas as well. As a result, a transition to the beauty industry seemed like a natural way to go.
The knowledge and experience of the four scientists – Magda, Alina, Agata, and me – founders of Science4Beauty, along with Professor Tomasz Ciach, demonstrated that through many years of scientific work and unwavering dedication, we could create a product that goes beyond traditional cosmetics, introducing true innovation to the industry. Some of us also had solid business backgrounds, which undoubtedly helped in building the brands- creating an effective marketing strategy to reach a variety of audiences and most of all upkeeping a solid bond with our clients, both the regular ones and those who have just joined us. Said competence had recently helped us win an Eluxe Award for the “Best Ethical Brand of 2025”, which emphasizes the mentioned care and sympathy for our trustees.
– Biotechnology is becoming mainstreams nowadays, but your approach is unique. How would you define the USP of Science4Beauty?
The unique selling proposition (USP) of Science4Beauty lies in our ability to combine cutting-edge biotechnology with natural ingredients to create high-performance cosmeceuticals. We focus on scientific precision and the application of breakthrough technologies, such as the use of conotoxins, to develop products that offer results comparable to aesthetic treatments. We obtain the active substance, conotoxin, through biotechnological methods by expressing a gene encoding the peptide in E. coli bacteria. Then the peptide is purified and properly assembled. The conotoxin purification process is multi-stage, thanks to which we can be sure that we are getting rid of any bacterial contamination. The final stage is the combining of conotoxin with a penetration enhancer in the pH buffer, thus ensuring the stability and activity of the ingredient in the cream formulation. The molecular structure of our peptide (conotoxin) is identical to the one naturally produced by Conus sea snails. In the production process of our cream, we utilize the latest technological advancements – cosmetic product testing is conducted on artificial skin, while clinical trials are carried out on a group of volunteers. Thanks to our innovative technology, we protect the lives of marine snails that inhabit coral reefs. What sets us apart is our commitment to safety, efficacy, and sustainability, ensuring that our products not only deliver visible results but are also environmentally conscious. Additionally, we have conducted application studies on humans, which further validate the effectiveness of our products. Our patent applications also reinforce the credibility of our innovations, ensuring that our solutions are not only unique but scientifically backed.
– Innovation and disruption are concepts that get thrown around a lot but can be difficult to harness. It takes curiosity, discipline, the freedom to fail, and understanding what it takes to commercialize new ideas. How have you created a culture that supports innovations while remaining sharply focused on commercialization in an industry that is saturated with newness?
In the beginning it was of course concentrated more on the R&D project – we focus on creativity and scientific curiosity, but at the same time, we are very aware of market needs and the commercialization of our products. A key element of our strategy is the close collaboration between research and development teams and the marketing and sales team, and in dialogue with skin treatment professionals. Our work culture is based on openness to mistakes because we know that in innovation, there is no room for fear of failure, and every unsuccessful attempt is a lesson for further development.
– What is your approach to innovation when it comes to marketing and sales, where it is crucial to meet commercial objectives?
Our approach to innovation in marketing and sales is deeply rooted in scientific credibility, technological advancements, and consumer-centric strategies, ensuring that we meet both commercial objectives and market expectations. By leveraging data-driven storytelling, educational campaigns, and expert collaborations, we build trust and enhance brand value.
Innovation in marketing also means embracing a seamless omnichannel approach. We integrate e-commerce and social commerce ensuring a consistent and interactive brand presence across multiple touchpoints.
We collaborate with leading experts, dermatologists, biotech researchers, and trendsetters to reinforce credibility and drive innovation in marketing strategies. By participating in scientific conferences, industry panels, and exclusive partnerships, we position the brand at the forefront of cutting-edge beauty and wellness. Today’s consumers value brands that align with their ethical and environmental values. Our marketing approach integrates sustainability messaging, responsible ingredient sourcing, and transparent communication to foster loyalty and long-term engagement.
– There are hubs around the globe that are known as hotbeds of innovation in beauty; Switzerland, France etc. just to name two of them. Can you share the dynamics in Poland that create and foster innovation? Are there any typical Polish values here?
Poland, while not traditionally associated with cosmetic innovation like Switzerland or France, has shown dynamic growth in this sector. Polish consumers seem to be open to try new products, thus creating a market conducive to new developments. Contrary to the popular belief, many of the companies you may have heard of, like Inglot, Ziaja or Bielenda, Dr Irena Eris are of Polish origin, paving the way for smaller businesses like ours to expand their activities. Especially so, currently the country is experiencing a significant growth in popularity amongst the niche brands- ones successfully combining traditional ingredients and methods with modern technologies, creating products that align with global trends while emphasizing naturalness and eco-friendly production. Therefore, Science4Beauty blends perfectly into this newly emerging environment – our team mixes a unique base product – the conotoxin – with some plant-based extracts, oils as well as natural probiotics and through modern biotechnological methods obtains sustainable and green cosmeceuticals. However, what sets us apart from the remaining local boutique companies, is that our peptide is crafted entirely in-house as a result of our own research and development conducted in our Warsaw-based labs. Therefore, which stems from our noticeable growth in sales relative to the previous year, one can notice how in a society deeply rooted in tradition and conservatism, a pragmatic approach to the beauty products still stands.
– Your mission “inspired by nature—realized by science”; truly grounds the business’s positioning and frames your work. Can you unpack the meaning of the claim for us?
Our mission, “Inspired by nature—realized by science”, defines our approach to innovation, combining the wisdom of nature with cutting-edge scientific advancements. Nature provides us with remarkable biological mechanisms that we seek to understand, refine, and enhance using state-of-the-art biotechnological methods. A perfect example of this is our work with conotoxins – naturally occurring peptides that we have transformed into highly effective cosmetic ingredients through advanced protein recombination techniques.
By translating nature’s intelligence into scientifically optimized formulations, we ensure both efficacy and safety without depleting natural resources. Instead of direct extraction from nature, we use controlled biotechnological processes to obtain active substances, making our solutions not only highly effective but also
sustainable and ethical.
We bring this philosophy to life by prioritizing precision, personalization, and breakthrough innovation. Our research focuses on developing active ingredients with enhanced bioavailability and optimal penetration into the skin, ensuring maximum effectiveness tailored to individual needs. This commitment to scientific rigor allows us to redefine beauty standards, bridging the gap between cosmetics and biotechnology.
Ultimately, our mission means continuously seeking new frontiers where nature and science intersect to create groundbreaking, high-performance solutions that shape the future of skincare.
What is the story of development of a product that is based on the cosmetic qualities of snail toxins?
The development of our product based on the cosmetic properties of snail toxins began with a pivotal moment initiated by Professor Tomasz Ciach. At that time, I was conducting research at the Institute of Biotechnology and Antibiotics in Warsaw on conotoxins with analgesic properties. This work sparked the idea of using conotoxins in cosmetics. It was a period of transition in our professional lives, and we felt ready for change – driven by a desire for growth and the ambition to create something truly groundbreaking within our own company.
Our experience in life sciences has shown us the challenges of developing medical products: long and complex research processes, high costs, and the distant prospect of reaching patients. This realization led us to focus on cosmeceuticals instead of pharmaceuticals or medical devices. We wanted to develop an innovative, science-backed skincare solution that would bring visible benefits while maintaining a shorter path to market.
The breakthrough came in 2020, during the pandemic, when we received a research grant. This moment was a turning point, affirming that we were on the right path and that our efforts had real potential. The funding fueled our drive to refine our concept, leading to the creation of Miorelaxant MagicTM – a revolutionary
cosmetic ingredient inspired by nature and realized through cutting-edge biotechnology. By leveraging the unique properties of µ-conotoxin TIIIA, we developed a non-invasive, highly effective solution that offers results comparable to aesthetic medicine treatments. Our history is a testament to the power of innovation, determination, and the seamless fusion of science and beauty.
– Is there any patent on your flagship achievements?
We have two patent applications already filed under the PCT procedure (Patent Cooperation Treaty). First application concerns a construct for an expression vector designed for the production of recombinant µ conotoxin TIIIA or its TIIIAlaMut variant in E. coli. It covers the expression vector, isolated bacterial cells containing the vector, and the production method.
The second application relates to a novel active lipophilicity modulator in the form of dimethyl sulfone, which acts as a penetration enhancer for active substances. It also covers compositions containing it and the method of its production.
These innovations are currently in the patenting process, reinforcing our commitment to scientific excellence and technological advancement.
– The beauty landscape is undergoing a transformative evolution, moving faster than ever before. What trends excite you, and where do you see the crucial focus for the brand in future? How do you aim to continuously evolve with emerging trends, shifting markets, updates in technology and most importantly, consumer needs?
The beauty industry is undergoing a rapid transformation driven by technological advancements, evolving consumer expectations, and scientific progress. The trends that excite us the most include the fusion of cosmetics and medicine, and biotechnological innovations that enhance both efficacy and safety.
We see the brand’s future as a leader in merging science with practice, not only responding to market needs but also shaping them. Innovations like Miorelaxant Magic demonstrate that precise biological mechanisms can redefine beauty standards, offering efficacy comparable to aesthetic medicine procedures.
To continuously evolve, it will be crucial to invest in research on the interaction between active ingredients and the skin, enabling the development of even more personalized formulations. Additionally, sustainable development and innovative ingredient sourcing methods will be key to meeting both skin and environmental needs.
By integrating science, biotechnology, and digital technology, we can not only keep pace with industry changes but also set the direction for the future of cosmetics.
For the brand’s future, we see investing in smart beauty solutions – such as virtual try-ons and AI-driven product recommendations – while ensuring that all innovations align with eco-conscious values. Of course continuously taking inspiration from nature to tackle next challenges in skincare in natural way – this is the focus on hyperhidrosis in our new project, where neurotoxins (this time not snail ones) will bring relief to excessive sweating.
To continuously evolve, we would prioritize consumer insights and agility. This involves staying ahead of market trends through data analysis, collaborating with trendsetters, and maintaining an open dialogue with customers to anticipate their evolving needs. Additionally, embracing emerging platforms – such as the metaverse and social commerce – will be key to engaging new audiences and ensuring the brand remains relevant in a dynamic landscape.
