UEA researchers develop technology they say could 'revolutionise the beauty industry'
They say they're taking the moisture out of moisturiser
Last updated 1st Mar 2023
Scientists in Norfolk have developed a new technology they say could revolutionise the beauty industry - by removing the need to use as much water in things like moisturiser and shampoo.
Researchers at the University of East Anglia have developed a new technology that turns beauty products like moisturiser into a dry piece of confetti-like ‘paper’.
The breakthrough means that 98% of the water in products like moisturiser, sun-cream, shampoo and conditioner can be removed.
Users simply need to add a drop of water to the paper-like disc to rehydrate it instantly.
The team behind the developments say it could revolutionise the beauty industry by reducing both its carbon footprint and packaging waste.
They also say the new technology removes the need for preservatives in these products and improves their shelf life.
Lead researcher Prof Sheng Qi, from UEA’s School of Pharmacy, said: “Most cosmetics and toiletries contain up to 95% water, leading to heavy units by volume and bulky packaging.
“Every year, 120 billion units of cosmetics and toiletries are packaged and shipped globally, so the industry has a huge carbon footprint.
“The technology that we have developed uses a no-heat process to transform a range of water and oil-based based beauty and skincare products into small discs of paper-like material.”
The process allows up to 98% of water to be removed, while preserving the stability of delicate active ingredients.
Prof Qi said: “We originally developed this technology for the pharmaceutical industry, but it quickly became clear that it could really help reduce the carbon footprint of the beauty and skincare industries.
“Removing the water and oil from toiletries like moisturiser, sun cream, and other hair and beauty products means that we can not only improve their shelf life but hugely reduce product and packaging weight, transportation costs, plastic waste and the need for preservatives.
“Above all, it dramatically reduces their carbon footprint, which is better for the environment. We hope it will help the beauty industry achieve Net Zero carbon targets and sustainability goals, without compromising product quality and performance.”