Vitant® is a South African skincare brand built on a simple but uncompromising premise: every person deserves access to world-class, clinically validated skincare — without the inflated price tag that so often accompanies it. The question that started it all was straightforward: why should effective skincare be so expensive?
A South African skincare brand rooted in pharmaceutical science
The brand was born when a medical doctor asked Joan van Wyngaard — a PhD pharmacist with a career built on evaluating ingredient science — to formulate something that was both genuinely effective and accessible. She accepted the challenge, and Vitant® was born.
The philosophy that runs through every Vitant® formulation is this: real results, without the downside. This means choosing actives that deliver clinically proven outcomes but that are gentle, sustainable, and suitable for long-term use. It means moving away from ingredients that irritate, disrupt the skin barrier, or cause rebound effects — and replacing them with next-generation biotech alternatives that work just as well, or better, without the compromise.
Every ingredient in a Vitant® product is chosen for a specific, documented reason. Every active carries a unique, patented mechanism of action supported by in vitro and/or in vivo clinical data. There are no fads, no trend-chasing, and no filler ingredients present for label appeal alone.
Vitant® sources its hero actives from ALGAKTIV® (Barcelona), a world-leading marine biotechnology company specialising in microalgae-derived bioactive compounds, as well as other globally recognised ingredient suppliers. These are pharmaceutical-grade biotech actives with unique delivery systems, sustainable sourcing credentials, and mechanisms that set them apart from conventional cosmetic ingredients.
| SIMPLICITY | SCIENCE | SYNERGY |
|---|---|---|
| Clean, purposeful formulations. Nothing unnecessary. | Patented actives. | Actives chosen to work together for compounded, measurable results. |
Vitant® is proudly cruelty-free and free from harmful ingredients. It is formulated with a pharmacist’s understanding of skin biology.
Meet Dr Joan van Wyngaard: The Ingredients Doctor™
Dr Joan van Wyngaard (BPharm, MSc Pharmacology, MBA, PhD) is a registered pharmacist, cosmetic formulation scientist, and the founder and formulator behind Vitant®. She is also known professionally as The Ingredients Doctor™.
Joan’s career spans over 25 years across pharmaceutical regulatory affairs, R&D, clinical research, quality assurance, and medical communications. She has worked in South Africa and Switzerland, holding roles that range from Clinical Project Manager on a Phase III paediatric endocrinology trial (Biopartners GmbH, Zurich) to Drug Supply Manager for global clinical trials (Auron Health Care AG, Zurich), to R&D and Deputy Responsible Pharmacist for some of South Africa’s most recognised supplement brands — including Linctagon, OsteoEze, JointEze, and Turbovite (Nativa). She currently serves as Local Representative for Accelsiors, a CRO conducting a Phase I clinical trial on melanoma (biosimilar).
It was her deep expertise in supplement formulation — evaluating ingredient data, understanding mechanisms of action, and sourcing best-in-class actives — that gave her the scientific foundation to move into skincare. The same evidence-first discipline that built her supplement career became the cornerstone of every Vitant® formulation.
Joan completed her PhD (2024) at the University of Pretoria on the optimisation of bioactive extraction from Pelargonium sidoides, the medicinal plant behind the Linctagon brand. She is a published researcher, an accredited CPD/CME presenter, and a recognised science communicator who has appeared on national television (Expresso Show) and radio.
She is the biggest ambassador for her own brand — using only Vitant® products herself — and applies the same evidence-first standard to every formulation decision. Her philosophy: “Live a beautiful life in a beautiful skin.”
Anyone who knows Joan knows that tenacity and determination are not just words. She has completed 10 Two Oceans Ultra Marathon races and is currently training for her 10th Comrades Marathon. Based in George, in the heart of the Western Cape’s endurance sports community, she understands firsthand what it means to push the body hard — and what it needs to recover, perform, and look good doing it. It is no coincidence that a strong and growing community of active individuals in the Garden Route follows the Vitant® brand, not because of marketing, but because they see the visible difference and they trust that Joan knows exactly what extreme sport demands of the skin and body.
As The Ingredients Doctor™, Joan hosts a weekly public masterclass series educating both consumers and healthcare professionals on the science behind skincare and supplementation. The series covers topics including collagen, retinol, pigmentation, SPF, hero supplements, skin microbiome, and more — always with the same purpose: to debunk myths, challenge fads, and give people the scientific understanding they need to make the best choices for themselves. Her motto is simple: no hype. Only science-backed actives with unique, documented mechanisms of action.
Range overview: A simplified approach to anti-ageing skincare
Vitant® currently offers five focused product categories, each built around a specific skin or wellness concern. The unifying thread across all of them is the same: real clinical results, without the downsides that have historically come with effective actives.
Products are available at www.vitant.co.za and on Takealot.
- Women’s Skin — Results Without Compromise
RetinART™: The marine bio-retinoid designed to challenge conventional retinol
Retinol has long been considered the gold standard of anti-ageing skincare — and with good reason. The clinical evidence behind it is extensive. But the downsides are equally well documented: redness, peeling, photosensitivity, a lengthy adjustment period, and absolute contraindication in pregnancy. For many people, this has meant choosing between results and comfort.
Vitant®’s answer to this dilemma is ALGAKTIV® RetinART™ — a marine-derived bio-retinoid extracted from Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae that has been clinically tested head-to-head against retinol and shown to deliver equivalent anti-ageing outcomes without any of the drawbacks. RetinART™ is 100% photostable, meaning it can be used morning and evening (unlike conventional retinol), causes zero irritation from day one, and is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It has also been shown to outperform retinol 0.15% on collagen stimulation outcomes in ex vivo studies.
To make results even more accessible, RetinART™ is paired with LactoSporin® — a postbiotic derived from Bacillus coagulans fermentation. LactoSporin® has its own published data on acne reduction, skin renewal, and UV protection. Together, these two actives form the foundation of both the Vitant SkinSmart Day Cream SPF30 and the Restorative Moisturiser. This means that with just two products — a day cream and a night cream — visible results are clinically expected within 28 days. Simplicity was always the plan.
For those who want to go further, the range scales beautifully:
- Core Essentials for Her (R950): Foaming Cleanser + Restorative Moisturiser + SkinSmart Day Cream SPF30 — the complete 3-step daily foundation for dry, mature, or menopausal skin, guaranteed to deliver visible results at 28 days
- Wrinkle Relaxant (R490): Powered by Exometics™ G — a vegan biomimetic exosome that communicates regenerative signals at the dermal level (not topical). Winner of 6 international industry awards, including the Mintel Most Innovative Award 2026. Paired with Collage™ vegan collagen amino acids from microalgae
- Eventone Serum (R300): Smart melanin modulator with ALGAKTIV® EvenSKN™ and Niacinamide — targets upstream melanin signalling under hyperpigmented conditions only, preserving natural skin tone on all Fitzpatrick types
- Collagen Quench Jelly Mask (R390): Leave-on cooling jelly with +24.9% hydration in 10 minutes (IN VIVO). A clinic favourite for post-microneedling, post-skin-peel, and post-sun recovery — and an instant glow treatment for anyone who needs a fast skin boost
- Bedtime Booster (R450): For those who feel they need more. HPR (hydroxypinacolone retinoate) is a direct-acting retinoid ester that works synergistically with RetinART™ for users who want maximum overnight results. Paired with Bakuchiol. Suitable for 40+ only
- Glow Serum (R330): 15% Vitamin C + Ferulic Acid — the antioxidant pairing that doubles protective efficacy (IN VITRO)
- Lifting Eye Cream (R310): Targeted treatment for puffiness, fine lines, and dark circles
Whether you are a no-nonsense two-step person or someone who loves a multi-step ritual — Vitant has a route that works for you.
- Men’s Skin — No-Fuss, High-Performance
Skincare designed around skin biology, not gender
Vitant is designed around skin biology, not gender. Male and female skin share the same fundamental structures — barrier, fibroblasts, collagen matrix, inflammatory pathways — and Vitant® formulations work across all of them.
The same principle applies to both the SkinSmart Day Cream and the Balancing Moisturiser, which contain RetinART™, so even a simple two-product routine delivers guaranteed anti-ageing results. The Balancing Moisturiser is formulated lighter and less occlusive, designed for men who prefer a texture that does not feel heavy on the skin.
Key products include:
- Core Essentials for Him (R850): Foaming Cleanser + Balancing Moisturiser (lightweight, RetinART™) + SkinSmart Day Cream SPF30 — results at 28 days with just two daily products
- Collagen Quench Leave-On Jelly Mask (R390): Exceptional post-shave recovery. The cooling jelly calms irritation, supports wound healing, and delivers instant hydration. A product that many men have made a non-negotiable part of their shaving routine
- Sport24 SPF50 (R400): Anhydrous, oil-based sunscreen engineered for endurance sports — sweat-resistant, water-resistant, strong film integrity. Designed for open water swimmers, runners, cyclists, and surfers
- Smoothing Gel (R230): SkinPerf™ LWG controlled-release AHA — -43% blackheads, 3× cell renewal (IN VIVO). Ideal for congestion, enlarged pores, and uneven texture
- Wrinkle Relaxant (R490): Gender-neutral. Targeted at expression lines and long-term skin regeneration
3. Teen Range — Problem Skin (Ages 13+)
A gentle approach to teen acne management
The teen range is built on the same core philosophy as the rest of the Vitant® brand: effective results without the harsh side effects. Conventional acne treatments — particularly benzoyl peroxide — are effective but at a cost: they damage the skin microbiome, cause significant dryness and irritation, and cannot be used long-term without consequence.
Vitant’s answer for blemish-prone teen skin is Plectranthus aliciae — a South African mint plant researched and patented through the University of Pretoria. This botanical works through six distinct mechanisms simultaneously: antibacterial activity against acne-causing bacteria (MIC 7.8µg/ml), COX-2 inhibition (anti-inflammatory), MMP-9 inhibition (anti-scarring), tyrosinase inhibition (fades post-blemish pigmentation), antioxidant protection, and confirmed non-toxic and non-mutagenic status. Critically, unlike antibiotic treatments, there is no risk of bacterial resistance developing. Clinical results are comparable to benzoyl peroxide — without the microbiome damage.
The teen routine is intentionally kept to a maximum of three products. No overwhelming protocols, no harsh actives, and no skin barrier disruption.
Key products include:
- Foaming Cleanser (R300): Microbiome-balanced cleansing with LactoSporin® (Bacillus ferment postbiotic) — -70% papules, -83% pustules after consistent use (IN VIVO). Results visible from Day 3
- Clear Wish Gel (R190): 6-mechanism blemish treatment with Plectranthus aliciae, ALGAKTIV® BioSKN® (Chlorella Vulgaris), and Niacinamide. Full face or spot treatment. No benzoyl peroxide. No microbiome disruption
- Daily Suncare SPF50 (R380): Lightweight, non-comedogenic SPF with LactoSporin® and Bakuchiol. UVA + UVB + blue light defence — essential to prevent UV darkening of post-blemish marks
4. Scalp & Hair — Hair Loss, Greying & Scalp Health
Hair, scalp, and longevity support
Like many of the Vitant® products, this range was born from personal experience. Joan herself struggled with hair thinning and premature greying — and set about finding an ingredient with real clinical data behind it, not just marketing claims. 40% of all 50-year-old women suffer from hair thinning.
Vitant®’s scalp range is anchored by ALGAKTIV® Densidyl® — a marine biotech active derived from Chlorella emersonii microalgae, delivered in liposomes for targeted follicle penetration. Densidyl® is the only ingredient in this category that works through NRF2 activation (+643% IN VITRO) — a transcription factor that governs cellular resistance to oxidants and stress. This mechanism simultaneously supports anagen (growth) phase stimulation, reduces cortisol-driven stress shedding, and protects follicle melanocytes from the oxidative damage that causes premature greying.
It is paired with ALGAKTIV® BioSKN® (Chlorella vulgaris + Spirulina maxima), which balances the scalp microbiome, controls sebum, and supports the scalp environment in which healthy hair grows.
Together, the combination addresses both follicle biology and scalp health in a single leave-on product.
Clinical results (IN VIVO, TrichoScan® methodology):
- +11.4% hair density in 5 months (+10,200 new hairs counted)
- -24.3% grey hair reduction at 140 days
- +25.9% anagen phase recovery
- +204.6% greater hair growth vs Minoxidil 0.5% (EX VIVO)
No hormonal interference. Safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding. No rebound effect when discontinued.
Products include:
- Scalp Leave-On Treatment (50ml) (R170): Nightly leave-on serum with Densidyl® + BioSKN® + Caffeine + Panthenol. Apply to the dry scalp, massage, and leave overnight
- Scalp Reset Shampoo (R360): Biotech-driven scalp shampoo with BioSKN®, Biotin, Rosemary, Hydrolysed Keratin, Caffeine, and Allantoin
5. Vitadurance™ Supplements — Active Lifestyle & Longevity from Within
A growing South African skincare brand focused on education and evidence
Vitadurance is the supplement extension of The Ingredients Doctor™ brand, designed to complement the topical range with inside-out support for active individuals. The tagline says it best: “Perform stronger. Recover faster. Age intelligently.”
Joan brings the same evidence-first formulation philosophy to supplementation that defined her entire career. Every Vitadurance active ingredient is chosen for documented mechanisms of action, clinical data, and ingredient provenance. The formulations are trusted and used by biokineticists, physiotherapists, and healthcare professionals who see the impact on their patients firsthand.
VITADURANCE PEA 500mg (R480) (Palmitoylethanolamide) — Our Hero Product
The origin of PEA in the Vitadurance range is a personal one. Joan was born with a hemivertebra in her back — a structural abnormality that causes chronic sciatica. Training for her 10th Comrades marathon with persistent nerve pain is not a small undertaking, and the search for a solution that was safe, natural, and evidence-based led her directly to PEA. From that personal struggle came a product that has changed the lives of many others.
PEA (Palmitoylethanolamide) is an endogenous fatty acid amide — the body produces it naturally in response to pain and inflammation. It works through a completely different mechanism from standard anti-inflammatories. Rather than blocking COX enzymes (as NSAIDs do, often with gastrointestinal and cardiovascular consequences), PEA activates PPAR-α, modulates mast cell activity, and supports endocannabinoid tone via the “entourage effect” — without acting directly on CB1/CB2 receptors.
The result is natural inflammation resolution rather than suppression: gentle enough for long-term use, safe enough to use alongside other therapies, and with no known toxicity or drug interactions.
PEA is particularly suited to active individuals and endurance athletes managing the cumulative toll of training — and is equally relevant for those dealing with chronic nerve pain, fibromyalgia, post-exercise stiffness, and age-related joint sensitivity.
“PEA has provided a safe, natural anti-inflammatory with neuroprotective effects for my chronic pain patients. I have not observed any side effects with ongoing use. I find PEA invaluable for my fibromyalgia, neuropathy, tendinosis and arthritic patients. This unique supplement has become my first choice for chronic pain management.” — Dr Leon Strauss
Composition: Micronised PEA 500mg per capsule. 60 capsules.
Suggested use: 500mg twice daily initially; reduce to once daily after 6 weeks if preferred.
VITADURANCE JOINT ACTIVE (R360) — Our Best-Selling 5-in-1 Joint Hero
Joint Active addresses joint structure, inflammation, and tissue repair in a single daily capsule — combining five clinically active ingredients chosen specifically for their synergy. For Joan, who trains for Comrades while managing a structural spinal condition, this is not a theoretical product: it is a product she relies on herself.
Joint Active contains two forms of collagen for dual-action support: eggshell membrane (delivering Collagen Types I, III, V, and X alongside elastin and glycosaminoglycans — for tendons, ligaments, and fascia), and native undenatured Type II collagen (for cartilage integrity and immune tolerance).
These are complemented by herbal anti-inflammatories and a bone health factor:
- Eggshell membrane extract (Gallus gallus) — 500mg: Native multi-collagen complex; supports connective tissue, tendons, ligaments, and recovery after mechanical load
- Curcuma longa extract (Curcumin 95%) — 10mg: Potent natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
- Native undenatured collagen — 40mg: Primary cartilage collagen; supports immune tolerance, joint comfort, and long-term cartilage health
- Boswellia serrata extract (30% AKKBA) — 100mg: Herbal anti-inflammatory targeting joint inflammation pathways
- Vitamin K (Menaquinone) — 45µg: Supports calcium utilisation for healthy bones
PEA and Joint Active are designed to be used together — covering complementary aspects of mobility: PEA for inflammatory balance and nerve comfort; Joint Active for structural collagen support and cartilage repair. The combined approach follows a simple framework: Regulate → Recover → Repair → Maintain.
Suggested use: 1 capsule daily with a meal. Best results from consistent use over at least 3 months.
⚠️ SAHPRA Regulatory Disclaimer (required on all Vitadurance materials)
This product has not been evaluated by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Get in touch with Vitant® Skincare
Website: www.vitant.co.za
Email: admin@vitant.co.za
Phone: +27 74 197 8787
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