BIOEFFECT vs Estelle & Thild — side by side, no bias.
Our pick
EGF Serum
8.9/10 · BIOEFFECT
| EGF Serum | BioCalm Optimal Rescue Serum | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | BIOEFFECT | Estelle & Thild |
| Category | serum | serum |
| Editor Rating | 8.9/10 ★ | 8/10 |
| Category | serum | serum |
| Texture | Clear gel-serum | Silky milky serum |
| Finish | Absorbed plumped | Calm, soothed, protected |
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| Verdict | Icelandic biotech meets skincare. BIOEFFECT grows epidermal growth factor (EGF) in genetically engineered barley plants — a plant-made human-identical growth factor that sidesteps the ethical questions of human-derived alternatives. The clinical data on skin density and wrinkle depth is published and real. Minimal, Scandinavian, and genuinely science-forward in a way most "science" brands aren't. | This is the Estelle & Thild product that Swedish eczema sufferers reach for when their skin is actively flaring. The BioCalm Rescue Serum is built around oat — both beta-glucan (the isolated active) and whole oat kernel extract. Oat beta-glucan forms a protective film on the skin surface that reduces transepidermal water loss while delivering anti-inflammatory polysaccharides. Apricot kernel oil and jojoba oil provide lipid repair without comedogenic risk. Elderflower (Sambucus nigra) extract adds traditional Scandinavian anti-inflammatory action. No fragrance, no essential oils, no colourants — this is a rescue product, not a sensory one. The texture is thicker than most serums — almost a light emulsion — which means it provides some occlusive protection on top of active soothing. |
