Innovative Microneedle Technology Partnership Between I-ne and University of Tokyo

Innovative Microneedle Technology Partnership

I-ne, a cosmetics company based in Osaka, has successfully established a collaborative research project with Professor Kim Bum-joo from the University of Tokyo's Institute of Industrial Science. This partnership focuses on developing a novel microneedle technology for cosmetic applications, which has culminated in the completion of a patent application. This innovative technique is set to revolutionize the way cosmetic ingredients are delivered to the skin, pushing forward the boundaries of skincare product formulations.

Background of the Joint Research

Historically, cosmetic formulations such as lotions and creams have remained largely unchanged in their methodologies over the past few decades. With a saturated market and a growing demand for novel applications, it is essential for the cosmetics industry to innovate and explore new ways to enhance the user experience. The emerging microneedle technology has garnered significant attention as a promising solution for delivering active ingredients into the skin. Unlike traditional injection methods, this technique uses micrometer-sized needles that dissolve or degrade, allowing the ingredients to penetrate deeper layers of the skin.

Recognizing this opportunity, I-ne is expanding the scope of microneedle applications beyond just beauty components. This research aims to selectively deliver a diverse range of ingredients into the skin, optimizing the efficacy of cosmetic products. The ability to utilize various components through this technology could reshape the skincare landscape, offering consumers enhanced results.

Overview of the Research

The joint research involves I-ne identifying appropriate ingredients for microneedling, alongside formulation design, while the University of Tokyo focuses on the manufacturing processes of microneedle formulations, developing innovative compositions and shapes. Rigorous evaluations of these formulations’ effectiveness and safety are also underway. The aim is to create groundbreaking next-generation microneedle products that have never existed in the market.

Professor Kim Bum-joo is recognized as a leading authority in microfabrication technologies utilizing MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems). His extensive research has produced an array of high-precision micro-nano structures across different material systems, earning international acclaim. Recently, he has been working towards the practical implementation of biodegradable microneedle patch systems for painless drug delivery, including transdermal vaccines and other hard-to-absorb medications.

The recent success in microneedling cosmetic ingredients implies significant progress in this interdisciplinary research initiative, leading to the completion of a patent application. This technology presents an alternative approach to effective ingredient delivery and retention.

Expectations and Future Directions

By publishing the results of this research in academic journals and conferences, the initiative endeavors to promote further studies and innovations in both beauty science and medicine. I-ne aims to develop a range of products based on the findings of this research, enabling the efficient delivery of a variety of ingredients to the skin via microneedle technology. This commitment not only seeks to offer consumers new choices in skincare but also positions I-ne as a leader in advancing the overall value in the beauty industry.

Beyond cosmetics, I-ne plans to apply this groundbreaking microneedle technology across various beauty services and technologies, contributing to the enhancement of industry standards and the proliferation of new solutions in the market.

Company Overview

- Company Name: I-ne Co., Ltd.
- Founded: March 2007
- CEO: Yohei Onishi
- Location: 8th Floor, Midosuji Daibiru, 4-1-2 Minami-Kuhouji-cho, Chuo-ku, Osaka 541-0058
- Website: i-ne.co.jp