Codex Labs was founded by Barbara Paldus[4] in 2018 with a focus on developing phenoxyethanol-free skincare product that preserves the native skin microbiome.[2][1][5][6] In its early stages, Codex Labs acquired Irish skincare company Bia Beauty and partnered with the French Eurofins Dermscan laboratory in Lyon for experimentation and clinical trials.[1] It also partnered with MyMicrobiome to certify all of its skincare products as microbiome-supporting. Codex launched its first skincare products in 2019 and its first supplements in 2023.[7][8]
In 2019, the company developed and patented its PreservX system, a novel biotech-ferment-based preservative that supports the natural skin microbiome.[2][9] It is a combination of four edible ingredients designated as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the US FDA: edible organic acids, lactobacillus ferment, coconut oil ferment, and biotech propanediol.[10][11] Later that year, Codex Labs introduced the MyMicrobiome-certified Bia collection, which focused on deep hydration, water retention, and turnover of dry skin layers.[12] The BiaComplex patent was issued in 2020.[13][14] The Antü collection, launched in 2020 and also MyMicrobiome-certified, focused on protecting and strengthening the skin barrier against the exposome, re-densifying the epidermis, and alleviating damage caused by UV light.[15] The AntuComplex and skin protectant patents were issued in 2021.[16]
The Shaant collection, introduced in 2022 (cosmetic) and 2023 (OTC), controlled sebum production, reduced redness, and mitigated the acne inflammasome for acne-prone skin.[17] The Shaant face/body scrubs were the first OTC acne products on the market to be MyMicrobiome-certified.[18] The ShaantComplex patent was issued in 2022.[19][20] In 2025, the company began testing its first functional fragrance (Cocoon) in Europe for mood modulation and stress reduction.[21][22] Codex Labs' products were also approved by the National Psoriasis Foundation in 2022 as irritation-free products that are safe for sensitive skin suffering from psoriasis.[2]
Products
In addition to skincare products like BIA, ANTÜ and SHAANT,[23] the company has developed dietary supplements to address gut barrier integrity, mucosal function, inflammation, and microbiome balance. All products are clinically tested, microbiome-friendly, and certified vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainable.[2][17]
