A statistic on its own doesn't tell the whole story, and neither does a before-and-after photo. The value lies in understanding what was measured, how those changes were evaluated, and what they actually mean.
Science is at the core of everything we create at Delavie, but we also believe it should be accessible.
In this article, we'll explore the research behind Delavie’s two patented ingredients, Hydrolytic Enzyme Complex (HEC) and Bacillus Lysate, and how they contribute to measurable skincare results.
The foundation - layerOne
Effective skin preparation is the starting point to healthy skin. Before serums and treatments can do their best work, skin needs to be cleaned, balanced, and ready to receive them. That's the philosophy behind layerOne, our two-step prep system consisting of the Clarifying Enzyme Cleanser and Clarifying Enzyme Toner.
While each product serves a unique purpose, they are both powered by the same patented technology: HEC.
What is HEC?
HEC stands for Hydrolytic Enzyme Complex, Delavie's patented ingredient derived from a microorganism that thrives in extreme heat, ideally 131°F. Rather than relying on traditional cleansing agents alone, HEC uses naturally occurring enzymes to help remove excess oil, impurities, and buildup while supporting the skin’s natural balance.
Unlike many cleansers that focus only on removing oil and buildup, HEC was developed to support multiple aspects of skin health at once. In addition to cleansing, research has shown that it can help improve overall skin texture, support elasticity, and promote a healthier skin barrier—all without compromising the skin’s natural defenses.
The cleanser uses HEC to lift excess oil and buildup during cleansing, while the toner adds the HEC onto the skin surface after cleansing, continuing the prep process.
Before and after using layerOne duo featuring HEC (below)
What the science says
Third-party testing found that HEC is clinically proven to:
- Reduce sebum (oil) levels by 77% immediately after one application
- Reduce visible skin scaliness by 46% immediately after one application
Third-party testing found that HEC is scientifically proven to:
- Increase Type 1 collagen production by 63%
Why this matters
Healthy skin is influenced by many factors—not just how clean it is. By measuring changes in oil levels, skin texture, elasticity, and collagen production, these studies provide a more complete understanding of HEC's role in supporting a stronger, smoother complexion over time.
The treatment - Aeonia
Once the skin has been cleansed and prepared, the next step is targeted treatment. Hydration, radiance, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles require ingredients that work beyond the skin’s surface.
The Aeonia age-defying collection includes the Age Defying Serum, Gentle Age Defying Serum, Eye Refresh, and Sculpting Cream, all powered by our patented ingredient, Bacillus Lysate.
What is Bacillus Lysate?
Bacillus Lysate is Delavie’s patented ingredient derived from a microorganism that spent 18 months on the outside of the International Space Station, where it was exposed to the extreme conditions of space. After returning to Earth, researchers discovered that it had developed unique longevity properties that could benefit the skin, leading to its recognition as Certified Space Technology™ by the Space Foundation.
Unlike many traditional cosmetic ingredients that primarily target the skin’s surface, Bacillus Lysate was studied for its ability to support skin health at the cellular level.
What the science says
Third party studies found that Bacillus Lysate is scientifically proven to:
- Increase hyaluronic acid production in skin cells by 238%
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Stimulate SIRT1 activity, a key protein associated with skin longevity
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Help defend against UVA-induced free radicals
Third party studies found that Bacillus Lysate is clinically proven to:
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Increase skin radiance by up to 75% after 14 days
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Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by up to 53% after 28 days
Before and after using the Aeonia Age Defying Serum featuring our patented Bacillus Lysate (above)
Why this matters
Many skincare ingredients are chosen for the immediate benefits they provide on the skin's surface. Bacillus Lysate takes a different approach by supporting the biological processes that help keep skin healthy over time. By promoting hyaluronic acid production, helping defend against environmental stressors like UVA-induced free radicals, and stimulating SIRT1 activity, Bacillus Lysate works at the cellular level to support healthier skin before those benefits become visible. Clinical testing reinforces these findings, demonstrating how this science translated into brighter, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin over time.
The takeaway
Before-and-after photos can be powerful, but they tell only part of the story.
Clinical testing provides measurable evidence. Laboratory research helps explain why an ingredient works. At Delavie Sciences, we believe multiple perspectives matter. Our goal is not just to create effective skincare—but to help you understand the research behind it.
