An important ingredient in the product is the enzyme zonase, which is found in fish eggs. The enzyme can break down dead skin cells without harming the live ones. Used in the treatment of psoriasis, the lotion helps in shedding the dead skin and stimulates the growth of new skin cells.
As with many other discoveries, this one was also first noticed by coincidence. The ball first started rolling when workers at a salmon hatchery would stand all day long with their hands in cold sea water. Rather than getting red and sore from the unkind conditions, the workers who handled the fry would get the softest, smoothes hands imaginable. This caused some curiosity, and researchers from the University of Bergen found the connection between the workers' soft hands and the enzyme zonase.
Researcher at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Ingvild Haug is a specialist in fish collagen and holds a doctorate in the field. The collagen from fish behaves very differently than collagen from other animals, and Haug researches how its unique abilities can be exploited. She is currently exploring ways to improve the lotion for a skincare company. The results from the clinical testing will show if the product will yield the expected results.