Kao will launch its innovative Fine Fiber Technology — commercializing it for the first time for use in skincare. The technology creates an innovative, ultra-thin skincare product, which the brand says is “a new method for embracing the skin with a veil-thin membrane made up of one extremely thin fiber.”

Kao’s est and Sensai brands will be the first to utilize the technology, in ‘overnight skincare’ products, which will debut in Japan.

To dispense the innovative products, Kao collaborated with Panasonic. The partners designed a high-performance diffuser device capable of forming an ultra-thin membrane on the skin when it is filled with a liquid skincare product. 

Watch the video below to see it in action. 

The brand explains: “Fine Fiber Technology enables the formation of a layered ultra-thin membrane on the surface of the skin by spraying several layers of a thin fiber measuring <1 μm in diameter directly on the skin, using a specially designed device."

Kao continues, “The membrane is light, soft and moves flexibly with the skin while making the surface even and smooth. The membrane becomes thinner toward its edge with a small difference in the level between the membrane and the skin. This allows it to blend naturally with the skin — while not lifting at the edges or coming off easily.” 

The est Biomimesis Veil Collection & How It Works

The innovative technology will be commercialized for the first time in the est Biomimesis Veil Collection, shown above. The collection will launch in Japan on December 4. 

The two-step skincare regimen includes Veil Effector, an “essence,” which blends into the skin for step one. Next, use the Veil Diffuser device, filled with the liquid Veil Potion — and spray the product onto the skin. 

Once applied, the Potion “blends into an ultra-thin, translucent veil of a superfine fiber that stays in place overnight like a second skin.” Peel it away in the morning. It will help protect against dryness and maintain a moisture-rich environment, replenishing the skin with ample moisture during sleep.

Where The Collection Will Be Available 

The Biomimesis Veil collection by est will launch at six department stores in Japan on December 4th, and at Beauty Base by Kao (a store run by Kao) in Tokyo’s Ginza district. 

The collection will roll out in 2020 to other major department stores in Japan, followed by a roll-out to duty-free stores in South Korea and major sales outlets through Kao Hong Kong, Kao Singapore and Kao China, as well as through cross-border e-commerce in China.

Kao Will Expand Its Fine Fiber Technology To Makeup — And More

Kao says next it will develop its Fine Fiber Techology for use in makeup. An upcoming launch may include a base makeup that delivers a natural look while firmly covering pores, uneven skin color, and blotches.

Another new product in development may be a body makeup that allows “painting the skin at desired sites on the body.” Kao states, “The membrane has a high capability to keep makeup on. At the same time, it can enable users to remove the makeup easily whenever they want.”

Kao is also conducting studies to apply the technology for use in the medical field. The company says, “To expand its use, Kao will screen candidate ultra-thin fibers and concomitantly used formulations and develop new optimum devices for them.”

In the future, possible applications include aftercare following procedures such as chemical peels and laser therapy, and care for skin disorders — as well as cover makeup for bruises and scars.