Skin elasticity deteriorates with age due to the progressive loss of the Elastin protein, one of the three key proteins associated with youthful skin. Two of these proteins, HA and collagen, are already used in cosmetic and medical dermatology, but the potential for elastin has remained untapped and offers a new innovation in anti-ageing therapy," says Prof Tony Weiss, founder and consultant scientist, Elastagen. The company is currently conducting multiple clinical studies to evaluate the potential of its Elastin formulations to augment the skin and restore elasticity in both cosmetic and medical dermatology applications.

Elastagen is on its way to achieve CE mark approval for the technology. By the end of 2012, Elastagen plans to develop a presence in Europe and develop its clinical activities by 2013. It plans to expand in the US market after covering Europe.

"Asia is also a significant market in skin care and cosmetics and, following our activities in Europe, we will explore potential avenues and partnering opportunities to expand our presence into this market," says Mr Robert Daniels, director & CEO, Elastagen.

"We plan to work closely with clinicians as ultimately we would hope to work with an established sales and marketing organisation with a strong presence in the cosmetic and medical skin care space," says Mr Daniels, elaborating on the marketing plans.

Elastagen is looking forward to carefully assessing the investment required to take full advantage of the potential of the elastin technology and managing the company's growth internationally. The company plans to choose investors and partners to work with in Europe, US and Asia and to successfully develop its products with consideration to clinician engagement, regulatory approval and commercialization specific to each market.