Amorepacific, utilizing X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) imaging technology, has conducted the world's first non-destructive quantitative analysis of the three-dimensional microstructure of cosmetic films. The research, a collaborative endeavor between Professor Byung Mook Weon's team from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Sungkyunkwan University and Dr. Chaeyeon Song from the Amorepacific R&I Center, has been distinguished as the back cover article for January 22, 2026, issue of the globally prestigious materials and analysis journal, Small Methods. (Paper Title: "Advanced Characterization of Soft Cosmetic Film Deposits with X-ray Microtomography")
Historically, the evaluation of core user experiences for makeup products—such as application, coverage, and longevity—has primarily relied on visual assessment and empirical judgment. This approach has inherent limitations, including the potential for subjective bias and difficulty in meticulously observing the microstructural changes that occur during actual use. As part of efforts to overcome these challenges, Amorepacific pioneered the application of X-ray micro-CT imaging technology in the field of cosmetics. Based on this, it developed 'INNERLAYTM,' a 3D quantitative analysis technology that performs a precise, non-destructive, three-dimensional analysis of the thickness, uniformity, and internal structure of the cosmetic film.
Through thousands of experiments and structural analyses, the researchers have scientifically elucidated factors previously difficult to ascertain through conventional methods alone, including: ▲ the mechanism of cosmetic film formation based on ingredient combinations, ▲ differences in makeup uniformity, ▲ structural changes during the drying process, and ▲ the adaptation of formulations to skin contours. Notably, through Poisson's ratio analysis, they have also successfully established a direct link between consumers' sensory experiences—such as feelings of tightness, creasing, and adhesion—and structural as well as physical indicators. This process has been commended for presenting a novel interpretative framework that enables the quantification of the user experience of makeup products.
This technology also lays a foundation for more accurately reflecting the nuances perceived by the actual user, beginning from the product development stage. It is expected to drive multifaceted innovation, including: ▲ enhanced application longevity (through optimization of film uniformity and thickness), ▲ flawless expression (through seamless application even on contoured skin), ▲ a weightless feel (through design based on texture deformation behavior analysis), and ▲ personalized formulations (through precise adjustments for different skin types and age groups).
Byung-Fhy Brian Suh, CTO and Head of Amorepacific R&I Center, stated, "The most elusive domain in cosmetics has always been the 'feeling,' but this research is profoundly significant in terms of substantially bridging the gap between sensation and science. By interpreting the origin of that sensory experience with scientific data, we have quantified the previously unseen microstructure of the cosmetic film." He added, "Moving forward, Amorepacific will continue to realize our research philosophy of taking definitive responsibility for the experiential difference that customers feel on their skin, driven by technological innovation."