Teesside's the cream of Europe
A pioneering cosmetic camouflage cream is moving into the European market with help from our Science 2 Business hub.
County Durham-based Thomas Blake Cosmetic Creams Ltd became one of the early pioneers of cosmetic camouflage creams after World War 2.
Teesside's scientists worked with the company to review the chemical formulation of the company’s Veil Cover Cream for sale over-the-counter and to ensure it meets rigorous European Union legislation.
Originally devised 60 years ago by Thomas Blake, a forward-looking cosmetic chemist, Veil Cream was used by plastic surgeons treating badly burned British and American pilots.
Effective camouflage blemish cover of post operative scars It proved an effective camouflage blemish cover of post operative scars, and today it is widely recommended by hospital dermatology and skin clinics as well as by beauty salons to help people with many types of skin blemish. New possible markets being explored include covering up tattoos.
But before moving into Europe, the firm has worked with Teesside University’s Science 2 Business (S2B) Hub, set up with support from the European Regional Development Fund 2007-13, to help science-using companies in the region innovate and become more globally competitive.
'We agreed to carry out a feasibility study to look at the chemical implications of bulk manufacture and the chemical testing requirements for the cream,' said S2B Project Manager Roy Huzzard.
Product testing of ingredients used in five products was carried out by one of the University’s research scientist, Dr Nitin Seetohul. Labelling recommendations were also made to keep within EU regulations.
Paul Friel, the company’s managing director, said: 'The S2B Hub have been a great help in developing this product, which is the ultimate camouflage blemish cover. The study has been invaluable to us. We are extending our relationship with the S2B Hub and will be undertaking stability testing on our product.'
>The Science to Business Hub is holding a special event for companies in the coating sector on 30 September in Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield, 1.00pm to 6.00pm. Companies wishing to attend should book online. T: 01642 738200 E: s2b@tees.ac.uk
>Funding from the EU allows the S2B Hub to provide at least two days' consultancy, advice and support to small to medium-sized companies in North East England and to draw on Teesside University’s research capability.