Proya Cosmetics Wins IFSCC 2025 Top Research Award
On September 18, 2025, Proya Cosmetics, a leading innovator in China's beauty industry, was honored at the IFSCC (International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists) award ceremony. The company received the distinguished "IFSCC 2025 Top 10 Papers of Basic Research Award," standing out among nearly 1,200 academic submissions globally. Remarkably, Proya became the only Chinese cosmetics company recognized with this accolade for the year 2025.
The awarded paper titled, "Discovery of Bioactive Compounds for Mitochondrial Enhancement and Skin Aging Prevention: A Deep Learning-Based Analysis," was presented on September 17 by Dr. Wei Jihua, a senior scientist at Proya's R&D center in Hangzhou Longwu. Dr. Wei articulated the importance of this award, stating, "This recognition reflects our meaningful collaboration with Zhejiang University and highlights the transformative potential of AI in discovering anti-aging bioactive compounds." He went on to describe how, through deep learning, they developed a high-throughput screening platform that predicts and validates the efficacy of natural products, thereby significantly enhancing R&D efficiency and accuracy. He expressed his gratitude toward his team and collaborators for their dedication and support.
Collaborative Research Efforts
The study that earned the award showcased a collaboration between Proya Cosmetics and Zhejiang University. Researchers utilized AI-driven deep learning to identify natural compounds that enhance mitochondrial function and prevent skin aging. The team validated their findings through high-throughput imaging analyses and biological assays, ultimately leading to the development of Cellergy pro™, an innovative multi-component formula that restores energy metabolism, repairs mitochondrial damage, and alleviates various signs of aging. Launched in August 2025, Cellergy pro™ is part of Proya's enhanced Energy 2.0 series, which includes a toning essence, a repairing lotion, and a moisturizing cream—marking a significant milestone in AI-driven skincare innovation.
At the 35th IFSCC Congress, Hou Juncheng, founder and president of Proya Cosmetics, led the R&D delegation, presenting 14 significant research projects. Besides the awarded paper, the company introduced 13 scientific posters covering diverse areas, including new raw material discoveries, innovative skin and scalp assessment methodologies, studies on new biological mechanisms, advanced physicochemical analysis methods, formulation innovation, and the use of new materials. These research achievements span many product categories, such as skincare, scalp care, makeup, and sun protection, affirming the extensive and profound global R&D capabilities of Proya Cosmetics.
Commitment to Scientific Innovation
As the only Chinese cosmetic company to receive the IFSCC 2025 Top 10 Papers of Basic Research Award, this honor validates Proya's long-term commitment to scientific and technological innovation while underscoring global recognition of China's beauty science. Juncheng Hou commented, "Proya will continue to strengthen its global R&D system, driving both technological progress and the internationalization of the Chinese beauty industry."
Dr. Huang Hu, Proya's scientific director, referred to the IFSCC Congress as the 'Olympics of cosmetic science.' He emphasized that out of 1,200 global submissions, their paper was selected as one of the top ten in basic research—a historic achievement for a Chinese R&D team. He vowed to enhance their research capabilities to strengthen their brands and promote greater international influence of Chinese beauty.
Proya’s Scientific Strategy
Proya Cosmetics is at the forefront of innovative research into mitochondrial anti-aging, collaborating with renowned institutions, including Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Tsinghua Yangtze River Delta Research Institute, University of Innsbruck (Austria), and the West China Hospital of Sichuan University. By leveraging advanced methods such as deep DNA/RNA sequencing, computational biology, AI-assisted molecular design, and virtual screening, Proya is building an innovative platform for discovering anti-aging active ingredients, aiming to develop patented raw materials and expedite their application in consumer products.
About Proya Cosmetics
Founded in 2003, Proya Cosmetics has rapidly escalated to become a leading market player in China's beauty sector. The company achieved a remarkable annual revenue milestone of over $1.39 billion in 2024, reflecting a significant growth rate of 21.4%. Proya specializes in R&D, production, and sales of cosmetic products, covering a wide range of beauty categories. Their commitment to innovation is backed by a $29 million investment in R&D and a robust portfolio of 229 patents. Proya Cosmetics' brand collection includes PROYA, TIMAGE, OffRelax, HAPSODE, CORRECTORS, INSBAHA, Awaken Seeds, UZERO, and ANYA.
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