In'oya
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Cosmetics, Skincare |
| Founded | 2011 |
| Founder | Abd Haq Bengeloune |
| Headquarters | France |
Area served | France, Africa |
| Products | Skincare products for black and brown skin tones |
| Website | inoya |
In'oya is a French dermo-cosmetic enterprise launched in 2011, specializing in skincare products designed specifically for black and brown skin tones. Through the application of genetic engineering and studies on melanogenesis, In'oya Laboratory pinpointed the factors responsible for dark spots on skin with higher melanin content and secured a patent for a treatment aimed at diminishing these blemishes.
History
The inception of In'oya Laboratory was driven by Abd Haq Bengeloune, a biomedical engineer originally from Senegal, who partnered with scientists from the CNRS in Marseille and INSERM at the La Timone School of Pharmacy. Their mission centered on creating a dark spot remedy that addresses the genetic characteristics unique to skin of color.
In 2013, In’oya attracted investment from Crédit Agricole Alpes-Provence Création during a funding round.
By 2014, the company had developed a novel technology focusing on the TYRP1 gene and Tyrosinase enzyme to combat hyperpigmentation. This innovation led to European and international patent applications filed jointly with Aix-Marseille University and CNRS.
In 2015, In'oya successfully raised €430,000 through funding provided by PACA Investissement, CAAP Création, and CPG to support research and development as well as the introduction of new skincare products in both France and African markets. That same year marked the beginning of product distribution via French pharmacies.
Awards and recognition
In 2011, In'oya Laboratory earned the "Best Project of the Year" award at the 13th edition of "Le Phare de l’Entrepreneuriat," an event organized by ACCEDE Provence.
Also in 2011, Abd Haq Bengeloune was honored as "Top African Entrepreneur in France" by Africangels, a network of business angels backing multicultural entrepreneurs who contribute to economic growth in France.
In 2012, In'oya Laboratory gained acknowledgment at the 17th "Trophées de L’Economie" hosted by La Provence for its innovative approach. Furthermore, the company triumphed in the "Innovate, Buzz, Win" contest sponsored by Carrefour, leading to product placement in over 200 Carrefour outlets throughout France.
Ecological commitments
Sustainability is a core value at In'oya Laboratory, which sources its raw ingredients from the Great Green Wall, an extensive reforestation project stretching from Dakar to Djibouti and managed by local communities.