French software developer Dassault Systèmes (Euronext Paris:DSY) and beauty and wellness company Groupe Rocher on Tuesday announced a collaboration to enhance research and development through the deployment of virtual twin technology.

This initiative aims to accelerate the formulation of natural cosmetic products by leveraging advanced simulation and predictive modelling capabilities.

Dassault Systèmes will develop virtual twins under its 3DEXPERIENCE platform to simulate interactions between Groupe Rocher's proprietary active ingredients and human skin. The technology integrates generative AI, chemical modelling, and 3D simulation to improve formulation accuracy and efficiency.

Groupe Rocher, which employs approximately 200 scientific experts, currently requires an average of 30 laboratory tests to finalise formulations. The new approach is expected to reduce development time by 20% by enabling earlier-stage analysis, minimising trial iterations, and improving overall R&D performance.

The collaboration will initially focus on the Ice Plant, an ingredient used in Groupe Rocher's anti-ageing skincare line, with plans to expand to additional plant-based actives.