Product innovation has been a guiding principle in the laboratories of Grupo Boticário’s Research and Development Center, which has now been enhanced by technological advancements. Examples include fragrances crafted with the aid of artificial intelligence, a “Smart Lipstick” designed to help people with visual impairments and upper limb disabilities, and low-waste packaging or bulk sales of fragrances.
Among these innovations, the 3D skin model stands out: originating from a long-standing study conducted in-house, this technology has been continuously refined over the years. Currently, it ensures scalability, efficiency, and safety for cosmetics testing. Annually, Grupo Boticário laboratories develops approximately 6,000 new products, with 1,500 of them subsequently launched by its different brands.
Understanding the Mechanism of 3D Skin Technology
Endorsed by the National Council for the Control of Animal Experimentation (Concea) and the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) as an alternative approach to animal testing, 3D skin technology employs isolated cells sourced from skin leftovers obtained from plastic surgeries, with the explicit consent of donors, or from cell banks. The “in vitro” model is crafted within a laboratory setting, replicating the characteristics of human skin and helping in the decision-making process for product formulation. This model enables the testing of raw materials and final products, including lotions and makeup.
3D Skin Bioprinting with Hair Follicles
The integration of hair follicles into 3D skin bioprinting represents a recent breakthrough, marking an evolution from the traditional 3D skin model. It can replicate intricate models of human tissues and organs.
Collaboratively developed by scientists from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in the United States and Grupo Boticário, the 3D skin with hair follicles incorporates the primary structures of the hair follicle into the 3D skin. It creates a more realistic environment for evaluating cosmetic products, particularly in terms of safety and effectiveness.
By considering the interaction between the skin, hair follicles, and product/ ingredients, this new model offers a more comprehensive analysis of ingredient permeation. This provides valuable insights for hair growth products. This innovation also contributes to regenerative medicine studies.
Both O Boticário and Eudora – the two leading consumer brands of Grupo Boticário – boast best-selling hair care lines in Brazil: Match and Siàge.
Grupo Boticário ranks among the top 10 most sustainable beauty companies in the world*. With a track record of not testing on animals for over two decades, the company aims to achieve 100% vegan product formulations by 2026. Grupo Boticário’s footprint spans 99.9% of the Brazilian territory and extends to over 50 countries As a Brazilian powerhouse in franchising, retail, industry, and scientific research, it operates as an ecosystem mobilizing over 2.5 million entrepreneurs. The group encompasses seven brands that directly engage with consumers, in addition to a Foundation and an Institute.
To find out more about these and other scientific advancements and innovations by Grupo Boticário, please visit our website: grupoboticario.com.br
Article published on: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adg0297 *Dow Jones Global Sustainability Index 2023
