3D printing is revolutionizing just about every area of our lives — and that includes ones you may not immediately think of. Researchers in the U.K.’s Cosmetic Science Group at London College of Fashion have been exploring the use of additive manufacturing for a whole new industry and application: makeup.
In a newly-published study in the Journal of Dermatology and Cosmetology, they describe the use of 3D printing to produce personalized makeup, more specifically lipstick. The work involves both 3D-scanning and 3D-printing technology to produce a lipstick applicator which perfectly matches the lips of the wearer, meaning no more mirrors necessary to apply it.
“The first step involves obtaining a high-quality scan of an individual’s lips in order to get a digital image,” Dr. Milica Stevic, one of the lead researchers on the project, told Digital Trends. “This image is then subjected to optimization and further modeling which is a simple, straightforward and universal procedure, regardless of the type of lips. As a result of this, a three-element digital model is obtained: A lipstick base, mold and cap, and manufactured using a 3D printer. A lipstick formulation is then poured in the mold and the lipstick base adjusted to the top. The inner part of the mold has a unique shape that perfectly matched the lip contours of the individual, so the final product obtained is a lipstick personalized to the individual’s lips.”
“With the personalized lipstick applicator we have proved the concept, so now are working on a more sophisticated model that is more likely to be commercialized,” Stevic said. “Personalized cosmetic products are able to treat every consumer individually, and will give them the option to take part in creating their own products.”
3D-printed lipstick applicator means perfect makeup every time [Digital Trends]