L’Oréal launches stretchable skin sensor that measures sun exposure

Source: L’Oréal. Model wearing a My UV patch.

L’Oréal has unveiled My UV Patch, the first-ever stretchable skin sensor designed to monitor UV exposure and help consumers educate themselves about sun protection, at the Consumer Electronics Show. The new technology arrives at a time when sun exposure has become a major health issue, with 90% of non-melanoma skin cancers being associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sun* in addition to skin pigmentation and photoageing.

To address these growing concerns, L’Oréal Group’s dermatological skincare brand, La Roche-Posay, is introducing a first-of-its kind stretchable electronic, My UV Patch. The patch is a transparent adhesive that, unlike the rigid wearables currently on the market, stretches and adheres directly to any area of skin that consumers want to monitor. Measuring approximately one square inch in area and 50 micrometers thick - half the thickness of an average strand of hair - the patch contains photosensitive dyes that factor in the baseline skin tone and change colors when exposed to UV rays to indicate varying levels of sun exposure.

Consumers will be able to take a photo of the patch and upload it to the La Roche-Posay My UV Patch mobile app, which analyses the varying photosensitive dye squares to determine the amount of UV exposure the wearer has received. The My UV Patch mobile app will be available on both iOS and Android, incorporating Near Field Communications (NFC)-enabled technology into the patch-scanning process for Android. 

“Connected technologies have the potential to completely disrupt how we monitor the skin’s exposure to various external factors, including UV,” says Guive Balooch, Global Vice President of L’Oréal’s Technology Incubator. “Previous technologies could only tell users the amount of potential sun exposure they were receiving per hour while wearing a rigid, non-stretchable device. The key was to design a sensor that was thin, comfortable and virtually weightless so people would actually want to wear it. We’re excited to be the first beauty company entering the stretchable electronics field and to explore the many potential applications for this technology within our industry and beyond.”

The stretchable, peel-and-stick wearable unites L’Oréal Group’s scientific research on the skin and expertise with UV protection with the technological capabilities of MC10, a stretchable electronics company that creates intelligent, stretchable systems for biometric healthcare analytics, and PCH’s 20-year experience in product development, manufacturing and supply chain. My UV Patch was developed by L’Oréal’s US-based Technology Incubator, a business division dedicated entirely to technological innovation, alongside MC10, which contributed physiological sensing and pattern recognition algorithms to measure skin changes and PCH which design-engineered the sensor.

"With My UV Patch, L'Oréal is taking the lead in developing the next generation of smart skincare technology powered by MC10's unique, stretchable electronics platform, that truly addresses a consumer need," said Scott Pomerantz, CEO of MC10. "This partnership with L'Oréal marks an exciting new milestone for MC10 and underscores the intersection of tech and beauty and the boundless potential of connected devices within the beauty market." 

“Together with La Roche-Posay dermatologists like myself, we share a mission to help increase sun-safe behaviour,” added Dr Alysa Herman. “La Roche-Posay recently commissioned a global study in 23 countries, which surveyed 19,000 women and men and found a huge gap in consumer behaviour...With the new My UV Patch, for the first time, we are leveraging technology to help incite a true behavioural change through real-time knowledge. ”

Recommended by more than 25,000 dermatologists worldwide, La Roche-Posay offers a unique range of daily skincare developed with dermatologists to meet their standards in efficacy, tolerance and elegant textures for increased compliance. The products, which are developed using a strict formulation charter, include a minimal number of ingredients to reduce side effects and reactivity and are formulated with effective ingredients at optimal concentrations for increased efficacy. 

Interested?

My UV Patch is expected to be made available to consumers later this year. 

*Source: Skin Cancer Foundation 2015

Learn about common skin conditions at the Better Skin microsite

Source: Better Skin Microsite.

A new microsite aims to build awareness about common skin conditions such as ezcema and melasma, and what can be done about them.

Sponsored by Galderma, a specialist in dermatological treatments, the Better Skin microsite hosts some illustrative videos about various skin conditions and short interviews with medical experts who answer questions such as what the effects may be, and what the treatment options exist.  

Everyday Minerals rolls out mineral colour correctors

Source: Everyday Minerals website.

Everyday Minerals has introduced what it says are its best mineral color correctors yet. These totally natural colour correctors include jojoba esters as a key ingredient, which allow the correctors to mask imperfections without looking cakey.


The new Jojoba Color Correctors come in four shades for different results. The Brighten Color Corrector is a pink shade that has light-diffusing pigments to brighten dark under-eye circles instantly. The flesh-toned Cover Color Corrector can be applied after foundation to camouflage.

The other two Correctors are best used before foundation. The Mint Color Corrector neutralises redness, ruddy complexions, broken capillaries, and blemishes, while the yellow-tinted Sunlight Color Corrector is meant to help with dark spots, scarring and redness for fair to medium skin tones.

Each Color Corrector costs US$9 for 1.7g. Samplers are available as a kit for US$14.

Everyday Minerals is based in the US. All of its products are handmade and 100% vegan, sustainable, and cruelty free.

New cosmetics ingredients on the way

Tired of your latest anti-ageing cream and looking for the next new thing? A new crop of anti-ageing solutions are on the way.

An August 2014 article in PLOS One, has studied the anti-wrinkle effect of a herb native to China and Japan called Salvia miltiorrhiza BUNGE (丹参). An extract from S. miltiorrhiza called Magnesium Lithospermate B (MLB) taken by mouth reversed both age- and ultraviolet B light-related collagen damage for both rats and human skin cells. The plant is already used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat heart problems and diabetes. Other constituents of the plant have shown promise against cancer.

In a May 2014 article in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, traditional earthworm extracts from three different types of earthworms were found to be a potential anti-aging agent, as they inhibited the chemicals that cause wrinkles.

An article in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, published in October 2014, identified the fermented leaves and stems of honeybush, Cyclopia intermedia, as promising for anti-wrinkle effects. Honeybush tea is a herbal tea from South Africa that is relatively rare, found only in a narrow mountain area in the cape region of the country. The authors of the research note that honeybush contains some of the same chemicals found in rooibos, and is an antioxidant and anti-cancer agent.

Researchers found that mice fed the honeybush extract and the fermented herb experienced reduced length and depth of skin winkles caused by UV irradiation, had less thickening of the skin, and lost less collagen, indicating its potential use as a skin wrinkle prevention agent.

A November 2014 article in Pharmaceutical Biology plumps for the leaves of a tree, ma kiang, Cleistocalyx nervosum var. paniala. According to Fruitipedia, the ma kiang fruit is eaten in Thailand, and drinks from the fruits, buds and/or leaves are made in Thailand, Korea and China. The plant is thought to be from Southeast Asia. An extract made from the leaves and alcohol (methanol) without heating showed high values for inhibiting the chemicals that cause ageing.

Last but not least, a December 2014 article in the International Journal of Molecular Medicine, has identified an extract from a mushroom that may help anti-ageing. The extract of the mycelium of T. matsutake (松茸, often called the pine mushroom) which the authors say is not only antioxidant, helps the immune system and fights tumours, but is also a good candidate for anti-wrinkle treatments.

Minimising melasma made easy

If you have brown patches around the cheekbones, it could be melasma. Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown to gray-brown patches of skin on the body due to over-production of melanin, a natural substance that gives colour to skin, hair and eyes. Melasma usually appears on exposed areas of the body such as the face, although it can also develop on the forearms and neck. 

According to Dr Calvin Chan of the Aesthetic & Laser Clinic in Singapore, there are two types of melasma, an epidermal (the top layer of skin) variation, and a dermal (the middle layer of skin) variation, but that people may experience both types at the same time. 

"I have a visual imaging system which has a built-in UV camera to help with diagnosis," Dr Chan said. "In the epidermal type, the pigmentation appears more intense, whereas with the dermal type, the pigmentation appears the same."

Common triggers for melasma, he added, can include sun exposure, pregnancy, birth control pills, cosmetics and genetic predisposition. "If your mother has melasma, you are more likely to have melasma as well," Dr Chan said, observing that it is more common in people with darker skin. "Melasma is not harmful but it does affect patients psychologically."

Dr Chan noted that there are creams for the skin formulated to treat melasma*. "Over-the-counter treatments usually include ingredients like arbutin, vitamin C and kojic acid. Prescription topical treatments include tretinoin, hydroquinone, and there’s an FDA-approved cream that contains 4% hydroquinone, 0.05% tretinoin and 0.01% fluocinolone acetonide. We know that tretinoin helps with increasing epidermal cell turnover, hydroquinone inhibits melanin synthesis (Editor's note: the production of melanin) and fluocinolone acetonide also inhibits melanin secretion and synthesis," he said.

Dr Chan observed that melasma can be treated successfully, but not as easily as with other pigmentation problems. "One common misconception is that melasma can be treated the same way other types of pigmentation like freckles, which can be treated for example with intense pulsed light (IPL) and lasers among other treatments," he said. 

"Unfortunately, in some cases the heat from laser and IPL treatments can sometimes cause melasma to surface or worsen, so the skin needs to be primed first with topical lightening agents and any treatment plan involving light or laser sessions needs to proceed cautiously to prevent inadvertently worsening the condition. 

"Another misconception is that it can be eradicated completely. This is often not the case as melasma, apart from being notoriously difficult to treat, also tends to recur as the underlying causes, genetics, hormonal changes etc. tend to persist."

Dr Chan advised those who would like to minimise the likelihood of getting melasma to avoid the sun. "As you know, sun exposure is a trigger for melasma, so using a broad spectrum UVA, UVB sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 and above will help if reapplied every four hours. Avoid the sun between 10am and 4pm, and wear a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing. Avoid harsh skin products and use a gentle skin cleanser and moisturiser. Always see a doctor for accurate diagnosis and treatment," he said.

*Healthcare professionals should always be consulted for advice on treating melasma. 

Jennifer Mak luxury handbags retailing at Singapore's Tangs

Jennifer Mak's eponymous brand is now available on the designer floor of Singapore’s Tangs flagship department store in Orchard Road till February 28, 2015. The brand of luxury handbags made from the finest python, ostrich, lizard, stingray and crocodile skin is known for its classic lines, elegance and uniqueness.

Source: Jennifer Mak. Part of the collection on the second floor at Tang's.

"The Jennifer Mak woman is someone who doesn't try too hard to get attention but certainly knows how to get it," says Jennifer Mak, Founder and CEO.

Mak's aesthetic involves superior craftsmanship and timeless designs. She draws her inspiration from the intense colours of nature, including coral and deep sea creatures. Apart from using the highest quality skins, Jennifer Mak's brand signature includes the use of Swarovski crystal in the clutch clasps. Braided leather and exposed stitching further showcase the craftsmanship of each Jennifer Mak piece. 

The Julia python clutch in gold.

The Jennifer Mak collection, which includes clutches, shoulder bags, hobos, satchels, totes and pouches, is available at select boutiques as well as online at www.jennifermak.com, at US luxury department store Saks Fifth Avenue’s online platform, www.saks.com, as well as the world’s largest luxury goods platform, www.secoo.com. 

The Tiffany python clutch with detachable chain.

Prices vary. The Julia and Madeleine python clutches can be had for S$800 each while the 11.5" Tiffany python clutch goes for S$1,500.

*Pictures from Jennifer Mak.

Protection from UV, pollution key consumer demands for beauty care

Many are turning towards beauty products to protect themselves from the impact of pollution, according to analyst firm Mintel, particularly in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region.

Mintel revealed that between 2011 and 2013 there was a 40% rise in the number of beauty and personal care products launched carrying a claim that it could treat or protect against the effects of pollution. This has raised APAC’s share of global beauty and personal care launches holding anti-pollution claims from 22% in 2011 to 27% in 2013.

Furthermore, Mintel’s research shows that many consumers are looking to wash away the effects of their surroundings in particular, as the number of soap and bath products launched in the APAC region carrying an anti-pollution claim grew 63% between 2011 and 2013. In addition, hair product launches carrying anti-pollution claims have grown 61% while skincare launched with anti-pollution claims grew 46% over the same time period.

Speaking at in-cosmetics Asia 2014, Emmanuelle Moeglin, Global Fragrance and Colour Cosmetics Analyst at Mintel, said: "We are seeing the expansion of beauty products that shield from its effect across regions, categories, occasions, ages and gender. As awareness of the effects of pollution grows, we are seeing the expansion of beauty products that shield from its effect across regions, categories, occasions, ages and gender. With an increasing number of consumers living more urbanised lifestyles, we expect to see a rising number of beauty and personal care products launched carrying more specific anti-pollution terminology that specify the sources and composition of the pollutants.”

Whilst the APAC region has seen particularly strong growth of anti-pollution beauty products, this claim has also posted strong growth globally. Between 2011 and 2013 there was a 10% rise in the number of beauty products launched carrying this claim around the world, with a 60% rise in the number of soap and bath products launched with this claim, a 31% rise in hair products with this claim and a 22% rise in skincare launches carrying this claim.

Although demonstrating smaller growth in comparison to other categories, skincare products are still the most likely category to carry an anti-pollution claim, with 3.7% of skincare products launched globally in 2013 including such a claim, up from 3.2% in 2011. Moreover, there are a growing number of eye care products being launched carrying an anti-pollution claim with 7.2% of eye-care products launched so far in 2014 carrying this, up from 3.9% in 2012.




In addition, Mintel’s research has also revealed an increase in the number of skincare products launched with a UV protection claim. Whilst 13.6% of skincare products launched globally carried a UV protection claim, this rose to 15.4% in 2013. Looking forward, the popularity of this positioning looks set to continue to grow as 16.4% of skincare products launched globally so far in 2014 offer UV protection.

Finally, Mintel has identified growing consumer awareness of pollution and emissions to be a key trend for 2015. Richard Cope, Senior Trends Consultant at Mintel, said: “In 2015, pollution will become a key media focus. The cosmetics industry in particular has been awakening consumers to the immediate, visible, personal effects of pollution. 

"As a result, we can expect protective claims against PM 2.5 and others to grow in product marketing in skincare and cosmetics in general. In addition, consumers are already embracing apps that scrutinise a product’s environmental credentials and we anticipate more brands to become increasingly transparent in the coming year.”

Herbalife brings new SKIN range to Asia Pacific

Herbalife, the nutrition company, has introduced the Herbalife SKIN skincare line to markets in Asia Pacific. The Herbalife SKIN line is a new addition to Herbalife’s outer nutrition range of products that balances ingredients, botanicals, and extracts with science to achieve beautiful, healthier and younger-looking skin.

Herbalife SKIN products have been formulated with an optimum blend of vitamin B3 and antioxidant vitamins C and E plus aloe vera to get softer, smoother, more radiant skin while diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. Created to replenish and rejuvenate the skin with fast results, Herbalife SKIN has been clinically proven to produce visible results in seven days*.
 
The Herbalife SKIN line is comprised of 10 new products: a Soothing Aloe Cleanser, Polishing Citrus Cleanser, Energizing Herbal Toner, Line Minimizing Serum, Firming Eye Gel, Hydrating Eye Cream, Daily Glow Moisturizer, Replenishing Night Cream, Instant Reveal Berry Scrub and Purifying Mint Clay Mask.

Made with fruit extracts, essential oils, plant enzymes, chamomile, and antioxidant vitamins, the SKIN line is unisex and is suitable for all skin types, with the exception of two cleansers: Soothing Aloe Cleanser for normal to dry skin, and Polishing Citrus Cleanser for normal to oily skin.
 

The Herbalife SKIN simplifies choices with three skincare programmes – Basic, Advanced or Ultimate – which combine products from the range to address specific skincare concerns and deliver tailored results to consumers.

· The Basic Program includes Soothing Aloe Cleanser or Polishing Citrus Cleanser, Energizing Herbal Toner, Daily Glow Moisturizer and Replenishing Night Cream

· The Advanced Program includes Basic Program items with the addition of Line Minimizing Serum, Firming Eye Gel and Hydrating Eye Cream

· The Ultimate Program includes all the products in the Advanced Program, plus the Purifying Mint Clay Mask and Instant Reveal Berry Scrub

The Line Minimizing Serum, Daily Glow Moisturizer and Night Replenishing Cream have been clinically proven to improve the skin softness, smoothness, radiance, glow and luminosity in seven days. The Hydrating Eye Cream, Line Minimizing Serum, Daily Glow Moisturizer and Night Replenishing Cream reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles significantly in seven days.

The Herbalife SKIN range will be made available in selected markets across Asia Pacific starting mid-June 2014, and will be rolled out progressively in the additional Asia Pacific markets by 2015. The entire range is paraben-free, sulphate-free** and dermatologist tested. 

*Seven-day results applicable to Line Minimizing Serum, Replenishing Night Cream, Daily Glow Moisturizer, Hydrating Eye Cream, Polishing Citrus Cleanser & Purifying Mint Clay Mask.

**Applies to Polishing Citrus Cleanser, Soothing Aloe Cleanser, and Instant Reveal Berry Scrub.

All images from Herbalife.