How additive manufacturing is changing the cosmetics industry

Everyday products that fill a home seem simple enough to make. However, most require a complex manufacturing process. Simply put: First the liquid is poured into a specially made mold. After it has dried, the mold is removed to reveal the new design. Items such as plastic bottles, soap dispensers and medicine bottles are all made using this classic manufacturing process. Most cosmetics also come in plastic containers made this way.

The development of the 3D printing or additive manufacturing industry has facilitated the design of complex products without the need for a prototype. Therefore, this technology has a significant impact on several industries, including cosmetics.

3D printing in the cosmetics sector

3D printing will not completely replace injection molding. In many cases, manufacturers combine the two methods. For example, 3D printing is preferred for prototyping because it is cheap and easy to transport. Injection molding, on the other hand, is fast and easy to repeat, ideal for those who want to produce a huge volume of parts at once.

Experts agree, however, that 3D printing can have a major impact on the cosmetics industry.

A personalized approach to makeup

In 2014, the first portable 3D makeup printer was presented, called Mink, a combination of makeup and ink. Instead of a plastic case, consumers can choose makeup printed on a thin sheet of paper. Using the Mink app, consumers choose a photo, then print the entire image or a specific color.

In 15 seconds, you can print an entire makeup palette – including eye shadows, blush, eyebrow powder, etc. – in a customized creation up to 16.7 million shades. Grace Choi, the inventor of the printer, says that lipstick, lip gloss and nail polish will soon be available.

A new type of mascara brush

Chanel decided to use 3D printing for the mascara brush.

The brand claims that they can print micro-cavities directly into the brush bristles, allowing for an even application, which helps apply the product smoothly, without the unsightly «clumps.» The new bristle design also avoids the need to repaint the brush. The product is on the market and is sold all over the world.

This revolutionary change is one of the first since Revlon introduced the classic tube and spiral brush design in the early 1900s. The new mascara, called Le Volume Revolution, will undoubtedly have an impact on the market.

Creation of human skin

A Shanghai-based cosmetics brand is about to change the industry by developing cosmetics suited to Asian women. Scientists used skin templates and bioink-based technology to successfully additively produce printed skin with all 3 layers: dermis, epidermis, and basement membrane.

Many believe this discovery could lead to a reduction in animal testing in the cosmetics industry. Additionally, 3D printing of living tissue allows cosmetics brands to invest in research to develop customized products.

An advanced skincare routine

Face masks that promote healthy skin are extremely popular.

At CES 2019, Neutrogena unveiled its new 3D printed product, MaskiD. Each mask is designed to perfectly fit the wearer’s face, with appropriate ingredients to combat specific skin problems such as acne or dryness.

Imagine a future where your skincare routine feels like having your own personal dermatologist in your pocket. That future is here, thanks to groundbreaking technology paired with your smartphone and the Maski D app. Here’s how it works: connect the Skin360 device, which carefully analyzes your skin by scanning pore size and moisture levels before delivering customized skincare recommendations tailored just for you. Don’t have the Skin360? No problem! You’ll simply complete a quick survey and snap a selfie, and then the magic begins. A bespoke mask, designed specifically for your skin’s needs, is 3D printed right before your eyes.

The influence of 3D printing on the cosmetics industry is already undeniable. Innovative as ever, beauty brands are embracing this cutting-edge technology to craft personalized products and eye-catching designs like never before. While some companies have fully embraced this futuristic approach to skincare, will others follow suit? The answer lies in the hands of time—but one thing’s certain: the intersection of advanced tech and beauty is reshaping the industry in ways we once only dreamed of.