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Emerging Technologies and the Future of Cosmetic Science

In this article, the authors look forward to what cosmetic science might be like in the future with what emerging technologies, radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and nanotechnology, may offer to the cosmetics industry.

Parting Remarks

This column, “Focus on Technology Transfer,” began in the January 2001 issue of Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine. I have had the privilege of writing this quarterly column for five years. In that first issue, I said that the purpose of the column “is to keep the readers of C&T magazine aware of some new and interesting developments that are taking place at research centers around the world.” I hope that you found some leads and were able to develop innovative and interesting products and relationships from the technologies presented in the articles.

Engineering Super Ingredients

Although some debate exists regarding the safety of genetically modified organisms (GMO), there is no doubt that genetic modification has allowed a number of industries to design crops and other resources with new features or added benefits.

Nutricosmetics: Feeding the Skin

This Bench & Beyond column will look at a few of the nutritional ingredients being added to cosmetics to promote the concept of beauty through a healthy body. Both the claims and the claims support (if any) will be discussed. The column will end with a suggestion about where to find the science behind nutricosmetics.

Researchers Find Hydrocyanine Sensors Allow ROS Imaging In vivo

Research conducted in Georgia reports that a family of sensors based on a hydrocyanine scaffold allows imaging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vivo.

Fishing for Answers to Alopecia

Men seeking treatment for pattern baldness, a form of androgenic alopecia, often are confronted with both topical preparations and oral supplements. Murphy believes his company’s oral food supplement addresses hair loss both naturally and effectively-via fish.

Microneedles: Just Deep Enough

Microneedle technology could, with supporting research, serve as a novel delivery system for personal care applications. Additionally, ingredients previously labeled as ineffective may find new life via this method, increasing the opportunity for skin care R&D.

Aerodynamic Dentistry: Nurturing Nature

Nicholas Davis, DDS, president of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), explained that function is important, but aesthetics go along with function.

Treating Spider Veins

Spider veins are popping up, literally, all over the world. This article attempts to establish possible causes for spider veins in addition to exploring their current and future treatment.

Heating Up the Preservative Debate

A possible solution to the preservative-free cosmetic formulation conundrum may lie in the milk pasteurization process. Ultra-high-temperature (UHT) sterilization is the process of heating milk or cream to temperatures exceeding 275°F.

Recent Advances in Biopolymers and Biomedical Materials

This overview of recent literature provides a snapshot of research trends in biopolymers and biomedical polymers. To improve product efficacy, the personal care industry often looks to other sectors for innovative materials and ideas. Here, the authors encourage readers to innovate by technology transfer and by gaining a better understanding of biopolymers.

Molecular Modeling of Skin care Products: Application for the Design of Pepidomimetics

Molecular modeling has been used in the pharmaceutical industry for years to predict how a new molecule may work based on research conducted with molecules of a similar structure. The cosmetics industry has also begun to use this technology to predict the behavior of new molecules on skin and in skin care applications.

Unraveling Wraps

This column offers a brief survey with commentary on technologies being developed to deliver cosmetic or dermatological benefits via textiles.

Special Delivery: Clay Nanotubes for Skin

By 2011, clay nanocomposites are projected to reach 44% of the marketshare—and it is this area that provides opportunities in personal care, as recent research by one manufacturer of naturally occurring nanotubes and other nanomaterials, NaturalNano Inc., has shown; specifically, its halloysite nanocomposites.

In Sight: Packaging Becomes Eco-friendly

The personal care industry is well on its way to more eco-friendly packaging. Emerging chemicals on the scene only assure the industry that as technology advances, the time it takes for a product to biodegrade will only shorten.

In Sight: Color Cosmetics On the Move

The Hewlett-Packard Company (HP), known for its computer, printer and digital imaging technology, is using what it knows about pigments and applying it to color cosmetics, specifically foundation.

In Sight: Formulating For Fido

Formulating for pet care is not that different from formulating personal care. Although it may seem that formulating for pet care would be simpler than personal care, the truth may astonish some.

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Macroalgal Fucoidan Extracts: A New Opportunity for Marine Cosmetics

This article explores the bioactivity and historical applications of macroalgae with a particular focus on fucoidans, as well as outlines the research underlining their growing use in nutraceuticals and discusses their potential in novel cosmetic formulations.