Science – Elm Biosciences

Welcome to Dermatologist-led Science

Skincare developed with breakthrough ingredients, pioneered by our Dermatologists

Instead of using stock formulas, our Dermatologists have helped pioneer and bring cutting edge ingredients to the skincare world. From unique formulas to synergistic complexes, we hope our work will redefine skincare trends across industry.

Oxidative Stress

As a major driver of premature aging, oxidative stress disrupts cellular function and weakens the skin barrier. Our formulations work to intercept this damage at the source, neutralizing this damage and supporting skin resilience over time.

Environmental Damage

Our formulas enhance the skin’s intrinsic repair systems and reinforce its protective barrier, reducing the impact of environmental toxins and UV-induced DNA damage to preserve long-term skin health.

Inflammation

Our products are engineered to interrupt key inflammatory pathways, helping to stabilize the skin’s internal environment and reduce reactivity over time.

Barrier Breakdown

A compromised skin barrier leads to moisture loss and increased vulnerability to irritants, accelerating visible signs of aging. Our formulas work to restore barrier integrity, locking in hydration and shielding skin from external stressors.*

precision-formulated

A3O™ Complex Recalibrates Your Skin Biology

Our patent-pending A3O™ Complex is meticulously engineered to intervene in the core biological drivers of aging, working in harmony with the skin’s natural processes.

By precisely regulating inflammation and neutralizing oxidative stress at the cellular level, it protects and restores skin health. This advanced science helps enhance texture, even tone, and strengthen resilience, promoting radiant, youthful skin.

Based on a 4-week, dermatologist-supervised clinical study of 30 participants using A3O™ Elemental Serum twice daily.

one streamlined system

Internal Support. External Defense.

Surface Repair

Intensive hydration and barrier renewal for smoother texture and visibly soothed, more resilient skin.

Internal Defense

Targeted antioxidant and adaptogenic support to neutralize inflammation and oxidative stress at the cellular level.

Synergistic Care

Formulated to work together, pairing advanced topicals with ingestibles that address aging from the inside out.

Dermatologist-Approved

Co-developed with a community of over 350 doctors, scientists, and medical researchers nationwide.

INTERNAL SUPPORT. EXTERNAL DEFENSE.

Our A3O™ Complete Skin Renewal bundle forms a streamlined, clinically-advanced system designed to restore skin clarity, strengthen the barrier, and build long-term resilience—from the inside out.

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Discover the A3O™ Complete Skin Renewal

Advanced Ingredients, Developed Over Time

Our ingredients are meticulously selected after years of work from our Dermatologists. Each formula is the product of countless iterations, perfecting the exact percentages to maximize long term outcomes.

We do not believe in dupes. We believe in science.

Full List

Our proprietary complex that protects and supports

A3O™ Complex

Hydrates and plumps

Hyaluronic Acid

Reduces redness

Blue Tansy

Softens and protects

Squalane

Calms and soothes

Vitamin E

Supports photoprotection

Polypodium Leucotomos

Calms and soothes

Organic Turmeric

Adds vitality

Vitamin D3

Maintains skin elasticity

Astaxanthin

Adapts and balances

Holy Basil / Tulsi

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Full List

a3o™ elemental serum

First-of-its-kind, patent-pending antioxidant serum powered by the A3O™ Complex to actively support the skin’s natural collagen production, improve texture, enhance tone and strengthen its overall barrier function.

A3O™ COMPLEX

Combining Acetyl Zingerone, Bakuchiol, and a fatty acid ester, our Patent-pending, triple-pathway anti-senescent molecule helps firm skin, enhances tone, and brightens the complexion with results that rival Vitamin C, without the irritation.*

Developed over years of R&D, including clinical work and published research on individual components by our dermatologist-led medical advisory board, we were very intentional about each ingredient and the optimal method to combine them in our complex. We believe this will reset the industry’s expectations for antioxidant molecules moving forward.

Calm instead of irritate. Stable in sunlight instead of breaking down. Stimulating the skin’s natural Collagen and helping set the stage for aging well*.

HYALURONIC ACID

Deeply hydrates and plumps for smoother, more elastic-feeling skin*.

SQUALANE

Helps to strengthen the skin’s natural moisture barrier to lock in hydration*.

VITAMIN E

Provides antioxidant protection and helps retain skin moisture*.

BLUE TANSY

Soothes dry, irritated skin and is gentle for sensitive skin*.

inner dose™

daily skin supplement

Designed with a strategic blend of antioxidants, adaptogens, and micronutrients, the dermatologist-formulated capsule addresses internal triggers of aging to preserve skin clarity, strength, and resilience over time*.

POLYPODIUM LEUCOTOMOS

280 mg

Helps to enhance the skin’s natural internal UV defense and photoprotection—ideal for individuals with daily sun exposure*.

ORGANIC TURMERIC

500 mg

Rebalances the body’s natural inflammatory response to help promote a calmer, more even-toned complexion*.

VITAMIN D3

2500 IU

Supports skin barrier integrity and improves overall skin vitality*.

ASTAXANTHIN

6 mg

Provides potent antioxidant protection to help preserve skin elasticity, maintain hydration, and reduce the visible signs of aging*.

HOLY BASIL / TULSI

250 mg

A powerful adaptogen known to help counter the visible effects of stress on the skin*.

A3O™ ELEMENTAL SERUM REFERENCES

1. Chaudhuri, R.K., Meyer, T., Premi, S. and Brash, D. (2020), Acetyl zingerone: An efficacious multifunctional ingredient for continued protection against ongoing DNA damage in melanocytes after sun exposure ends. Int J Cosmet Sci, 42: 36-45. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12582

2. Dhaliwal S, Rybak I, Pourang A, et al. Randomized double-blind vehicle controlled study of the effects of topical acetyl zingerone on photoaging. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021; 20: 166–173. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13464

3. Meyer, T.A.; Swindell, W.R.; Chaudhuri, R.K. Acetyl Zingerone: A Photostable Multifunctional Skincare Ingredient That Combats Features of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Skin Aging. Antioxidants 2023, 12, 1168. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12061168

4. Srivastava, J.; Young, M.M.; Yadav, V.K.; Phadatare, P.R.; Meyer, T.A.; Chaudhuri, R.K.; Premi, S. The Role of Acetyl Zingerone and Its Derivatives in Inhibiting UV-Induced, Incident, and Delayed Cyclobutane Pyrimidine Dimers. Antioxidants 2023, 12, 278. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12020278

INNER DOSE™ DAILY SKIN SUPPLEMENT REFERENCES

1. Segars K, McCarver V, Miller RA. Dermatologic Applications of Polypodium leucotomos: A Literature Review. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021 Feb;14(2):50-60. Epub 2021 Feb 1. PMID: 34221229; PMCID: PMC8211346.

2. Zundell MP, Katz A, Shah M, Burshtein J, Rigel D, Zakria D. The Utility of Oral Polypodium Leucotomos Extract for Dermatologic Diseases: A Systematic Review. J Drugs Dermatol. 2025 Apr 1;24(4):346-351. doi: 10.36849/JDD.8410. PMID: 40196953.

3. Vaughn AR, Branum A, Sivamani RK. Effects of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on Skin Health: A Systematic Review of the Clinical Evidence. Phytother Res. 2016 Aug;30(8):1243-64. doi: 10.1002/ptr.5640. Epub 2016 May 23. PMID: 27213821.

4. Mata IRD, Mata SRD, Menezes RCR, Faccioli LS, Bandeira KK, Bosco SMD. Benefits of turmeric supplementation for skin health in chronic diseases: a systematic review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2021;61(20):3421-3435. doi: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1798353. Epub 2020 Jul 27. PMID: 32713186.

5. Chang SW, Lee HC. Vitamin D and health - The missing vitamin in humans. Pediatr Neonatol. 2019 Jun;60(3):237-244. doi: 10.1016/j.pedneo.2019.04.007. Epub 2019 Apr 17. PMID: 31101452.

6. Davinelli S, Nielsen ME, Scapagnini G. Astaxanthin in Skin Health, Repair, and Disease: A Comprehensive Review. Nutrients. 2018 Apr 22;10(4):522. doi: 10.3390/nu10040522. PMID: 29690549; PMCID: PMC5946307.

7. Ng QX, De Deyn MLZQ, Loke W, Foo NX, Chan HW, Yeo WS. Effects of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Skin Health: A Systematic Review of Clinical Studies. J Diet Suppl. 2021;18(2):169-182. doi: 10.1080/19390211.2020.1739187. Epub 2020 Mar 23. PMID: 32202443.

8. Lima SGM, Freire MCLC, Oliveira VDS, Solisio C, Converti A, de Lima ÁAN. Astaxanthin Delivery Systems for Skin Application: A Review. Mar Drugs. 2021 Sep 9;19(9):511. doi: 10.3390/md19090511. PMID: 34564173; PMCID: PMC8471810.

9. Hilt B, Langård S, Lund-Larsen PG, Lien JT. Previous asbestos exposure and smoking habits in the county of Telemark, Norway--a cross-sectional population study. Scand J Work Environ Health. 1986 Dec;12(6):561-6. doi: 10.5271/sjweh.2106. PMID: 3493526.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

patent-pending science

A Breakthrough in Skin Resilience

Developed through rigorous scientific research, our patent-pending A3O™ Complex targets key visible signs of aging—UV-induced damage, hyperpigmentation, dehydration, and irritation—while supporting skin’s tolerance, even for sensitive skin types.

ELM founder & chief medical officer

Dhaval Bhanusali MD

Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali is a board-certified dermatologist and biotech entrepreneur known for building the next generation of skincare innovation. As co-founder of Elm, he leads the development of breakthrough technologies like the A3O™ Complex, designing formulas that deliver clinical results with unmatched precision, simplicity, and performance.

Elm Medical Advisor

Dr. Raja Sivamani, MD

Board-certified dermatologist, researcher, and integrative skin health expert, Dr. Raja Sivamani bridges science, wellness, and clinical dermatology innovation.

Research

Lindsey Zubritsky, MD FAAD

Ocean Springs, MD

Board-certified dermatologist specializing in general medical dermatology, surgical dermatology, cosmetics, and pediatric dermatology

MUNEEB SHAH, DO

New York, NY

Board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, cosmetic and procedural dermatology, Dr. Shah is deeply passionate about educating on dermatology

Omar Noor, MD FAAD

New York, NY

Board-certified dermatologist and clinical investigator specializing in the future of skin health. As a frequent national lecturer and contributor to Dermatology Times, Dr. Noor combines his clinical leadership with his role as team dermatologist for the Brooklyn Nets and New York Red Bulls.

CHRIS TOMASSIAN, MD

Glendora, CA

Board-certified dermatologist known for his expertise in both cosmetic and medical dermatology

Mojgan Hosseinipour, DO FAAD

Boca Raton, FL

Board-certified dermatologist and clinical research investigator with a focus on skin of color and aesthetic dermatology.

Mamina Turegano, MD

Metairie, LA

Triple board-certified dermatologist, internist, and dermatopathologist specialized in medical, cosmetic, and integrative dermatology, blending conventional and holistic approaches to skin health.

Janine D. Miller, MD, FAAD

Anchorage, AK

Harvard-trained, board-certified dermatologist with advanced dual fellowship training in lasers and teledermatology. Dr. Miller specializes in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology, with particular expertise in advanced laser treatments and minimally invasive aesthetic procedures.

Alexis J. Lukach, MD FAAD

Rydal, PA

Board-certified dermatologist focused on providing personalized care across medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

Chase Kwon, MD FAAD

Chicago, IL

Board-certified dermatologist with expertise in medical dermatology, patient education, and clinical ethics.

Saurabh Singh, MD FAAD

McLean, VA

Board-certified dermatologist practicing in the DC metro area with a focus on treating atopic dermatitis and psoriasis in both children and adults.

Danny C Del Campo, MD FAAD

Chicago, IL

Board-certified dermatologist in Chicago recognized for his expertise in skin, hair, and nail care.

Nazanin Kalani Williams, MD FAAD

Denver, CO

Board-certified dermatologist known for her expertise in medical dermatology.

Jacqueline N. Graham, MD FAAD

Akron, OH

Board-certified dermatologist known for delivering expert medical care with a patient-centered, compassionate approach.

Mary Alice Mina, MD FAAD FACMS

Atlanta, GA

Harvard-trained board-certified dermatologist, international speaker, author, and host of *The Skin Real*, a podcast ranked in the top 2%.

Leah Spring, DO FACMS FAAD

Columbia, SC

Double board-certified, double-fellowship–trained Mohs surgeon and cosmetic dermatologist with expertise in laser scar revision and facial rejuvenation.

Marjon Vatanchi, MD FAAD

Newport Beach, CA

Double board-certified and dual-fellowship–trained dermatologist specializing in aesthetics, hair, and procedural dermatology.

Robert Finney, MD FAAD

New York, NY

Board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained in aesthetics and hair.

Rebecca K. Jacobson, MD FAAD FACMS

Framingham, MA

Double board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon who specializes in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

Dara Spearman, MD FAAD

Fort Wayne, IN

Founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates. An expert in all aspects of medical and cosmetic skin care.

Lauren R. Penzi, MD FAAD

Huntington, NY

Board-certified dermatologist on Long Island specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology; completed a hair loss fellowship at Harvard.

Valerie M. Harvey, MD FAAD

Newport News, VA

Board-certified dermatologist with expertise in skin of color and pigmentary disorders.

Emily L. Guo, MD FAAD

Houston, TX

Board-certified dermatologist with advanced fellowship training in cosmetic dermatology and lasers.

Clare Goggins, MD FAAD

Ardmore, PA

Board-certified dermatologist practicing in the Philadelphia suburbs dedicated to compassionate, patient-centered care

Toral Patel, MD, MS, FAAD

Chicago, IL

Board-certified dermatologist with expertise in medical and cosmetic dermatology.

Kurt Ashack MD FAAD

Grand Rapids, MI

Board-certified dermatologist with expertise in both cosmetic and medical dermatology, with a special interest in connective tissue diseases.

Anat Lebow, MD FAAD

New York, NY

Board-certified dermatologist with a passion for longevity inside and out, with expertise in both cosmetic and medical dermatology.

Anne M. Leger, MD FAAD

Northbrook, IL

Board-certified dermatologist who practices general, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology, with a focus on cosmetic dermatology.

Devina Mehta, MD FAAD

Las Vegas, NV

Board-certified dermatologist specializing in cosmetic, surgical, and medical dermatology.

Samantha A. Toerge, MD FAAD

Chevy Chase, MD

Board-certified dermatologist who practices medical and cosmetic dermatology; owner of a boutique private practice.

Brad P. Glick, DO, MPH FAAD

Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Board-certified dermatologist with expertise in cosmetic, medical, and surgical dermatology, as well as clinical trial research.

May Hall, DO, FAAD

Asheville, NC

Double board-certified dermatologist specializing in cosmetic dermatology.

Ashley Reader, DO, FAAD

Louisville, KY

Board-certified dermatologist known for her expertise in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

Daniel Chang, MD

Fullerton, CA

Board-certified dermatologist known for expertise in both clinical dermatology and skincare product development.

Dana M Correale, MD FAAD

Cheshire, CT

Board-certified dermatologist in private practice, caring for patients since 2008.

Sarika Snell, MD FAAD

Washington, DC

Board-certified dermatologist known for blending science and artistry to help patients achieve their best skin in cosmetic and medical dermatology.

Brittany Smirnov, DO FAAD

Washington, DC

Dedicated board-certified dermatologist who combines expertise in complex skin conditions with a commitment to improving global and public health.

Kelly Vogel, MD FAAD

New Orleans, LA

Board-certified dermatologist known as a caring physician treating skin disorders of all ages, specializing in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

Merrick D. Elias, DO FAAD

Pembroke Pines, FL

Board-certified dermatologist known for his expertise in all facets of dermatology.

Manju Dawkins, MD FAAD

Redondo Beach, CA

Board-certified dermatologist and founder of Thimble Health.

Ritu Saini, MD FAAD

New York, NY

Double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, with certification in integrative dermatology and fellowship training in cosmetic dermatology.

Amit Om, MD FAAD

Charlotte, NC

Board-certified dermatologist, entrepreneur, and investor with a passion for innovation in skin health and medical technology.

Silvina Pugliese, MD FAAD

Dix Hills, NY

Board-certified dermatologist and academic physician with a focus on oncodermatology (special interest in survivorship) and inpatient dermatology.

Lindsay Boyers MD FAAD

Boulder, CO

Board-certified dermatologist passionate about all aspects of skin care, from complex medical dermatology to cosmetic dermatology, for patients of all ages.

Amy Brodsky MD FAAD

Chicago, IL

Board-certified dermatologist known for being the founder of Sun Hero and Sun Safety Day with Major League Baseball; also a practice owner who successfully sold to private equity.

Amy Basile, DO, MPH FAAD

Bryn Mawr, PA

Board-certified dermatologist, mom of three, breast cancer survivor, with special interests in sensitive skin, hair loss, and complex medical dermatology.

Erik Domingues, MD FAAD

Fall River, MA

Board-certified dermatologist, founder and CEO of Modern Dermatology of Massachusetts, with experience in cosmetic, medical, and surgical dermatology.

Brenda LaTowsky, MD FAAD

Scottsdale, AZ

Board-certified dermatologist known for her expertise in cosmetic dermatology and innovation in the field through clinical research.

Jessica Parsons MD FAAD

Houston, TX

Board-certified dermatologist in a direct-pay micro-practice in West Houston, where patient care, not insurance, is prioritized.

Heidi K Anderson, MD FAAD

Sarasota, FL

Decades of experience in medical and surgical dermatology, with additional expertise in cosmeceuticals.

Brienne Cressey, MD MBA FAAD

Portsmouth, NH

Board-certified and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon and dermatologist with expertise in cutaneous oncology and reconstruction.

for practitioners

Learn more about our medical advisory board

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breakthrough formulas developed by the world’s leading dermatologists

\ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ NEW\ \ \ SUPPORTS FIRM AND ELASTIC SKIN\ \ \ IMPROVES FINE LINES](/content/products/a3o-elemental-night-cream/index.html) A3O™ Elemental Night Cream\ \ \ \ \ A restorative treatment designed to help your skin appear renewed overnight. This advanced formula smoothes the appearance of fine lines, helps the skin feel firm, and deeply hydrates your skin while you sleep.\ \ \ \ Sale price: $165\ \ \ 4.7\ \ Add to Cart
\ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ ANTI-SENESCENT MOLECULE\ \ \ ANTIOXIDANT](/content/products/a3o-elemental-serum/index.html) A3O™ Elemental Serum\ \ \ \ \ Powered by A3O™, a patent-pending triple-pathway antioxidant clinically shown to improve firmness, texture, and skin tone—without the irritation or instability of Vitamin C.\ \ \ \ Sale price: $135\ \ \ 4.5\ \ Add to Cart
\ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ UV SUPPORT\ \ \ COMPLEXION SUPPORT](/content/products/inner-dose-daily-skin-supplement-starter-kit/index.html) Inner Dose™ Daily Skin Supplement Starter Kit\ \ \ \ \ Targets inflammation, stress, and hormonal shifts (the root causes of skin aging) through a daily blend of adaptogens, antioxidants, and essential micronutrients.*\ \ \ \ Sale price: $50\ \ \ 4.9\ \ Add to Cart