Ideas, perspectives, and new ingredients for a market in perpetual motion: SpecChem, a major Chinese professional supplier of cosmetic and personal care ingredients, presented itself at PCHi 2026, the international event for ‘Personal Care and Homecare Ingredients’ held in Hangzhou, China, from March 18 to 20, introducing Ceramide-Encapsulated Copper Peptide 1001, a next-generation targeted anti-aging active based on biomimetic delivery technology developed by France’s SILIA Innovation. HPC Today, the event’s media partner, discussed this and much more with Elza Qin Ding, Regional Sales Director (EMEA, Asia), SpecChem Europe GmbH.
“For this year’s event, we introduced several new ingredients, including SilCareTM GHK-Cu 1001, an encapsulated copper peptide. As is well known, peptides are typically not very stable; however, in this case, we encapsulate water-soluble copper tripeptide-1 within a network containing ceramides, which enhances both stability and efficacy. We also offer a base preparation with original copper peptides, designed to deliver improved performance even with limited formulation complexity. This encapsulation technology significantly increases peptide stability, reducing concerns about light exposure and pH sensitivity, and making it much easier to incorporate into formulations,” says Elza Qin Ding.
The ingredient combines Copper Tripeptide-1 with skin-identical Ceramide NP, using a stratum corneum–mimicking encapsulation system to enhance penetration, enable “reservior effect” for sustained release , prolonged activity, and improve stability—supporting wrinkle reduction, repair, and soothing performance. Designed for both efficacy and formulation flexibility, SilCareTM GHK-Cu 1001 delivers high activity at low use levels while remaining adaptable across a wide range of skincare applications.
Regarding innovation, SpecChem is increasingly focused on green solutions. “In addition to peptides, we are now placing greater emphasis on natural and sustainable products. Through our biofermentation processes, we are able to reduce costs while also saving energy. We are also expanding our plant extraction activities, working with a wide variety of botanical sources,” explains the Regional Sales Director (EMEA, Asia) at SpecChem Europe GmbH. “For example, we use SpecPure® BTS Saponins Camellia Sinensis Seed Extract).We aim to make full use of raw materials, including by-products and waste streams, as part of our commitment to sustainability. This approach also contributes to the stability and overall performance of our ingredients. In addition, one of our PM component-based ingredients has received a Gold Award”.
“Can you explain how your biomimetic delivery technology works and what unique benefits it brings to advanced formulations? This makes the formulation more stable and much easier to work with. The product’s structure is also similar to the human stratum corneum structure, which allows it to penetrate more effectively. As a result, it delivers better performance even at lower dosages, meaning you don’t need high concentrations or high costs to achieve excellent results”, continues Elza Qin Ding.
Finally, the SpecChem representative addresses the topic of future challenges in personal care. “We primarily focus on active ingredients. However, their stability remains a major challenge in formulation. At the same time, there is a growing trend toward incorporating active ingredients not only in skincare, but also in makeup products. Makeup requires different types of formulations—for example, oil-soluble versions are often needed, while many of our ingredients are water-soluble. For this reason, we develop technologies that allow these actives to be adapted for use in makeup formulations as well”, concludes.
Interview with Elza Qin Ding, Regional Sales Director (EMEA, Asia), SpecChem Europe GmbH.
