Beauty tech: Amorepacific develops tactile sensor to measure skin sensations
28 Jan 2022 --- Global beauty company Amorepacific has created the world’s first intelligent and artificial skin sensor, developed in collaboration with researchers at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST).
The intelligent sensor called thermo-/calorimeter (TCM) can be used to develop cosmetics with perfected textures, say the researchers who co-developed the sensor.
Using the intelligent sensor, Amorepacific will be able to “provide verified and reliable results by comparing the cool and warm sensations of cosmetics for evaluation,” informs Park Young-ho, head of research and innovation center at Amorepacific.
“We will continue to further secure data using advanced technology and bring about innovations through research,” adds Park.
Using intelligent sensors in the cosmetic industry
The intelligent tactile sensors are the result of combining machine learning with measurement technology.
Amorepacific is a parent company to 43 Korean and global brands in the beauty and personal care industry.
TCM can recognize various sensations as human skin does, but with more precision.
“In the cosmetics industry, evaluation of the thermal attributes (for example, coolness and wetness) of skincare products only relies on the subjective sensory evaluation of panelists,” the researchers explain.
The sensors can differentiate between different materials and solvents. Of the materials and solvents, it can precisely detect temperature, moisture levels, vapor pressure and vapor heat (thermophysical properties) in digital values – an extent to which human skin cannot.
For example, when alcohol contacts human skin, it can detect coolness and evaporation like TCM. However, TCM can also differentiate between the types of solvents and measure different vapor pressures and heat.
However, to ensure the optimum evaluation of the “thermal attributes of skincare products, such as coolness and wetness,” TCM can be used where human skin is lacking as TCM “has the capability to sense the thermophysical properties of solvents,” suggest the researchers.
“The thermal attributes of skincare products are dependent on their ingredients, such as water, polyols and thickening agents,” say the researchers.
Other recent developments in the skincare industry show partnerships like L’Oréal Groupe and Verily to make skincare holistic with collaborative researchers and dermatologists.
Comparing human skin and artificial sensors
TCM is easy to use as it can be adhered to the skin to measure skin senses. It is flexible and “ultra-thin” while able to resist external pressure. 
UNIST conducts deep research on technology sensors that mimic human skin.
The human skin works by sensing stimuli from the environment and then converting them into electrical signals. This suggests that human skin recognizes materials by touch, with sensitivity to thermal conduction - hot and cold.
The researchers explain that human skin recognition of the wetness and materials are not based on sensory perception; instead, it is a learned association during the sensory thermal experience (for example, coldness).
Therefore, where human skin cannot detect the differences between different materials such as metals, the researchers say that TCM can accurately differentiate between metals like stainless steel, brass and copper.
Mimicking human skin senses is essential, say the researchers. The cosmetics industry can ensure accurate evaluation of products and enhance product textures. Prosthetics and healthcare devices can be developed in the healthcare industry, suggest UNIST researchers.
Previously, Amorepacific partnered with millennial loved brand Cosrx and developed sustainable packaging using molecular recycling with Eastman.
Edited by Venya Patel
