How 3D printing is changing the cosmetics industry

Daily products that meet the needs of the family seem simple. However, most of them require complex mold production. First, pour the liquid into the mold cavity. After drying, the mold is removed to reveal the new plastic design. Plastic bottles, soap dispensers and medicine bottles are all made through this process. Most cosmetics also come with plastic containers made of mold release agents. The rise of 3D Printing has made it easier than ever to design complex shapes without molds. This technology is having a significant impact on multiple industries including the cosmetics industry.

3D Printing in the cosmetics industry
3D printing will not completely replace injection molding. In many cases, manufacturers will combine the two methods. For example, 3D printing is the first choice for prototyping because of its low cost and easy transportation. On the other hand, injection molding is fast and highly repeatable-ideal for those who want to produce a large number of parts at once.
However, experts believe that 3D printing can have a significant impact on the cosmetics industry.

Customized makeup methodIn 2014, the first portable 3D makeup printer (combination of makeup and ink) came out. Consumers can choose cosmetics printed on a thin sheet of paper instead of plastic boxes. Consumers use the Mink app to select a photo, and then print the entire image or a specific color. In 15 seconds, you can customize a complete palette of up to 16.7 million shades, including eye shadow, blush, brow powder, etc. Grace Choi, the inventor of the printer, said that lipstick, lip gloss and nail polish will be available soon.
 The new mascara brushChanel decided to use 3D printing in its mascara brush. The brand claims that they can print microcavities directly in the bristles of the brush to achieve smooth and even application without clumping. The new bristle design also avoids the need to rebristle. The product has been put on the market and sold worldwide. This is one of the revolutionary changes since Revlon introduced the classic tube brush and spiral brush design in the early 1900s. This new mascara called “Le Volume Revolution” will undoubtedly have an impact on the market. Will other manufacturers follow in the footsteps of the brand?

3D printing of human skin
A Shanghai cosmetics brand will take the development of cosmetics suitable for Asian women as its mission, thereby disrupting the entire industry. Scientists successfully created printed skin with dermis, epidermis and basement membrane using skin model and bio-ink technology. Many people believe that this breakthrough may lead to a reduction in animal testing in the cosmetics industry. In addition, 3D printing living tissue can help cosmetic brands invest more in research and development of customized products. Masksthat promote healthy skin with advanced skin care routines are very popular. At CES 2019, Neutrogena showed off their new 3D printing product MaskiD. Each mask is carefully designed to fit the individual wearer’s face and has ingredients suitable for specific skin problems, such as acne or dryness. This technology can be used with smartphones and MaskiD applications. Connect to the Skin360 device, which will scan the pore size and skin moisture content, and then provide recommendations. If you don’t have Skin360, you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire and take a selfie. After that, 3D print the mask to suit your unique needs.