Fig.1

The appropriate application of cosmetic products, in particular creamy and liquid foundations, to the face could soon become easier, thanks to new techniques developed by Japanese scientists.

In spite of the countless products offered by the cosmetics industry, the application of foundation is still more of an art than a science,” explains Shigeki Nakauchi, a searcher at the Toyohashi University Tech’s Department of Computer Science and Engineering. “That is, there is not a scientific way to quantify the spatial distribution of foundation applied to the face.

In collaboration with Kanebo Cosmetics, Shigeki Nakauchi has therefore developed a technology enabling the quantification and visualization of the ‘quality’ and finish of a foundation application.

Through the simple insertion of a special filter in front of a camera lens (Fig.1), it is possible to produce an optical image of the amount of foundation applied to the face. For example, this technology enables a direct comparison of the finish of foundation applied by an untrained person (Fig.2 - left) and a professional make-up artist (Fig.2 - right)).

Fig.2

This technology will be used for the development of materials for base make-up, more informed make-up counselling and techniques for beauticians,” says the Toyohashi University of Technology in a release.