Bionto Partners with HAEWON T&D to Innovate Beauty Technology with Hyalionic Minerals and Iontronics

Bionto and HAEWON T&D: A New Era in Beauty Technology

Tohoku University-based biotech startup, Bionto, has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with HAEWON T&D, a well-known cosmetic ODM/OEM manufacturer from South Korea. This agreement aims to combine Bionto’s innovative Iontronics technology with HAEWON’s unique Hyalionic minerals, revolutionizing the beauty and healthcare market.

Background of the Collaboration

Bionto’s foundation lies in over 20 years of research by Professor Matsuhiko Nishizawa from Tohoku University, focusing on Iontronics technology. This groundbreaking technology is designed to enhance self-care and self-medication through cutting-edge healthcare devices. One of Bionto's standout products, the bioelectric skin patch, along with the development of a porous microneedle (PMN) device, utilizes electrical energy to non-invasively administer active ingredients through the skin. This technological advancement positions Bionto as a leader in the next generation of beauty and healthcare platforms.

To facilitate entry into Japanese and international markets, Bionto has already partnered with Toyo Beauty, a leading Japanese cosmetic ODM/OEM manufacturer, and has now taken a significant step by collaborating with HAEWON T&D to explore opportunities in South Korea’s beauty sector.

Founded in 2001, HAEWON T&D boasts an annual revenue of 22 million USD and employs an extensive R&D department. They provide comprehensive solutions that encompass formulation development, branding, manufacturing, and quality control. HAEWON’s manufacturing facilities have achieved recognition through CGMP certifications and ISO 22716, emphasizing their capability in biomedical material research and development. The company holds patents on their proprietary Hyalion™, which is highly compatible with Bionto’s Iontronics technology, thus paving the way for this joint venture.

The Terms of the MOU

Under the MOU, both companies will collaborate in the following areas:

1. Joint Technology Exploration of Hyalion™ and Iontronics
HAEWON and Bionto will synergistically explore the combination of Hyalion™, an ionized mineral hyaluronic acid composite, with Bionto’s PMN devices. This includes optimizing the incorporation of ionized minerals into PMN devices, validating the synergy between both technologies, and developing product specifications tailored to the Japanese and Korean markets. Additionally, there will be an exploration of potential applications for other beauty products.

2. Acquisition of Priority Negotiation Rights for Hyalion™ in Japan
As part of the MOU, Bionto has secured exclusive priority negotiation rights for the development, production, sales, import, and supply of beauty products utilizing HAEWON’s Hyalion™ in the Japanese market. Hyalion™ has been notably recognized for enhancing the skin absorption rate of hyaluronic acid by approximately 30% by binding it to ionized minerals, thus overcoming the barrier posed by the large molecular size of hyaluronic acid.
The unique structure of Hyalion™, devoid of chemical cross-linking agents, results in lower risks of side effects while being biodegradable, safely decomposing and being absorbed in the body over time.
Bionto aims to proceed with proof of concept (PoC) and commercial viability assessments to finalize contracts for product launches and material supply in the Japanese market.

Statements from Company Leaders

HYUN KIWOONG, CEO of HAEWON T&D CO., LTD.:
"We are confident that Bionto’s Iontronics technology presents an innovative approach to transdermal delivery, dovetailing seamlessly with our Hyalion™. We look forward to introducing a new category of products to the K-Beauty market that combines cutting-edge technology from Japan. We are excited to partner with Bionto to deliver our patented materials to the Japanese consumer. Our collaboration aims to leverage the superior technologies of both countries to enhance our competitiveness and gradually expand our market presence."

Hiroshi Senoo, CEO of Bionto:
"South Korea stands at the forefront of beauty technology and represents a crucial market for our Iontronics technology's global expansion. HAEWON’s ownership of unique patented technologies and their strength in R&D-driven manufacturing positions us well for collaboration. Together, we can create a new standard for non-invasive transdermal delivery. Securing exclusive negotiation rights for the Japanese market marks a significant milestone for our business. We are committed to advancing our joint endeavors swiftly to provide consumers with innovative experiences."

Conclusion

The partnership between Bionto and HAEWON T&D symbolizes the growing integration of advanced technologies in the beauty industry. By aligning their respective strengths, they are poised to innovate and set new standards in both Korean and Japanese cosmetic markets, enhancing the consumer experience.

For more information, visit Bionto’s website.