Microfluidics in Cosmetics

Advantages of droplet-based microfluidics for the cosmetics industry  

Droplet-based microfluidics offer significant benefits to the cosmetics industry. With reagents encapsulated in highly monodispersed droplets at the millimeter scale, active ingredients can be preserved and protected from the environment up until the moment of application. Different types of emulsions can be generated for the needs of the individual product, each with different purposes. Droplets do not burst until they are applied directly to the skin, providing a visual and sensory experience along with improved product efficacy and better moisturization or drug absorption.   

Unmatched droplet homogeneity  

In cosmetics, microfluidics offer high control over an immense range of parameters, including droplet size, formulation, and aesthetics (colors, pigments), while also providing unmatched consistency compared to traditional batch methods. Manufacturers can develop custom products with visual and sensory feels specific to their brand – a must in the cosmetics industry. The ability to precisely monitor droplet size allows for direct control of drug loading capacity and product functionality. Microfluidic systems can be scaled up or down and automated with a high degree of reproducibility to meet specific production needs, making them adaptable to both small-scale laboratory research and large-scale manufacturing.