[TechInnovation Feature] Esthemedica partners with Singapore Polytechnic (SP) to turn a natural extract into an anti-acne solution.

  • The Client
    Esthemedica is a Singapore-based aesthetics and beauty supplement company looking to innovate with natural, science-backed skincare solutions.
  • Objective
    To develop and commercialise a hypoallergenic acne treatment product with a plant-based active ingredient.
  • What IPI Singapore Did
    Through TechInnovation, IPI Singapore connected Esthemedica with Singapore Polytechnic (SP)’s Consumer Chemicals Technology Centre (SP-CCTC) and facilitated the partnership throughout each development phase.
  • Impact
    Completed clinical testing on the new acne product formulation and laid the foundation for future collaboration and co-development, including plans for a second whitening product.

The skincare space constantly evolves with new ingredients, trends and technologies, which are emerging faster than you can say ‘serum’. Esthemedica, a homegrown skincare company passionate about science-backed beauty, recognises that this rapid change is an opportunity to get creative and stay ahead of the curve.

After finding success in the skin health supplement category with its brands EstheWhite and EstheShield, Esthemedica set its sights on formulating a new hypoallergenic acne treatment. The aim? To develop a topical solution that pairs nature with efficacy using a plant-based active ingredient to reduce acne outbreaks without the irritation commonly associated with harsher actives.

With support from IPI Singapore's technology matching, Esthemedica embarked on a research partnership with SP-CCTC to continue advancing its next step to building its innovation pipeline. 

Developing a gentler solution, backed by nature

Esthemedica’s innovation journey began in 2021 when the team connected with IPI Singapore through a referral from the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR). At TechInnovation 2021, IPI Singapore introduced the company to several health and personal care technologies within its network, including SP-CCTC.

Initially, Esthemedica was interested in developing probiotic-based skincare products using technologies featured by SP-CCTC. However, following early formulation trials, the company and SP-CCTC decided to pivot their focus on developing two new concepts aligned with Esthemedica’s business goals: a whitening product and an anti-acne formulation.

The latter took shape when the company identified a plant-based compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The active ingredient demonstrated dual actions on sebum control and pigmentation, addressing two of their customers' most common skin concerns. 

“We were looking for a solution that was not only effective but also aligned with evolving consumer expectations,” said Hoong Cheong Hon, General Manager of Esthemedica. “Today’s consumers want skincare that is gentle yet backed by science. Harsh chemical treatments are falling out of favour, especially among wellness-conscious users. This product answers that shift, a plant-derived antioxidant supporting skin health while meeting safety, efficacy, and barrier-friendly care expectations.”

In late 2022, Esthemedica signed a service agreement with SP-CCTC to explore this further. The partnership covered ingredient sourcing, formulation, packaging evaluation, and stability testing. Most importantly, it gave Esthemedica the commercial rights to the final formulation upon successful development.

Refining the formula with real feedback

What sets this collaboration apart is how customer insights were embedded into the formulation process. After initial prototypes were developed, Esthemedica shared consumer feedback that led to two rounds of formulation revision. SP-CCTC responded by optimising the product, enhancing its efficacy and skin tolerance.

Preliminary results have been promising. The most recent version of the product demonstrates greater anti-inflammatory efficacy than conventional retinoic acid, a common active ingredient used in acne products. However, unlike retinoic acid, it does not trigger irritation, making it ideal for consumers with reactive skin.

Esthemedica has conducted in-house clinical testing at its medical clinic and an external clinical trial by a qualified external party to validate the product’s efficacy. Based on the study results, subjects demonstrated encouraging improvements in skin condition, and no adverse reactions were reported throughout the study period. The company plans to use the test findings to support future regulatory and go-to-market planning.

“Through SP-CCTC, we gained access to specialised formulation expertise, testing facilities, and scientific validation frameworks. This allowed us to uncover and transform a promising natural extract into a professionally developed, consumer-ready skincare active in a much shorter timeline than we could have achieved independently,” said Hoong.

SP-CCTC’s track record in co-developing effective personal care products is well established. In addition to its work with Esthemedica, SP-CCTC partnered with Good Pharma Dermatology, the company behind the Suu Balm brand, to develop a more sustainable concentrated body wash formula.

“We’re proud to support companies like Esthemedica that are not only innovating for growth but also listening closely to what their customers want,” said Eunice Soh, Senior Manager, Innovation & Technology at IPI Singapore. “TechInnovation plays a key role in facilitating these outcomes, and it is where we help SMEs discover the right partners, like centres of innovation or technologies to translate bold product ideas into tested, commercially viable solutions.”

Building momentum through partnership

Beyond the acne formulation, Esthemedica and SP-CCTC are already exploring a second collaboration centred on whitening. Both parties have begun exploring new ingredients of interest, intending to co-develop another science-driven skincare solution.

Meanwhile, the acne product continues to move through refinement and internal validation. Once ready, the company intends to launch in Singapore to assess demand, before extending to its established markets in Hong Kong, Vietnam and Malaysia. While aesthetic clinics are the primary channel, the team also explores opportunities across B2B and B2C segments to broaden its customer reach.

“This collaboration has shown us the value of combining scientific partnerships with local innovation support. Our approach will continue to emphasise evidence-based development, consumer wellness, and speed-to-market by working with institutions like SP-CCTC,” said Hoong. “This ensures that every product we launch is not only inspired by nature, but also professionally formulated, scientifically tested, and aligned with consumer trust in quality and safety.”

Esthemedica’s journey underscores the unique role of TechInnovation as an enabler for discovery and collaboration. By bringing together technology seekers and providers in one space, the platform offers meaningful opportunities and a powerful launchpad to share ideas, access expertise, and co-develop real-world solutions.