Two Japanese brands launch new skincare range that astronauts can use in outer space
The developers of the new products have expressed their goal to enhance the quality of life for astronauts during their space missions. Photo: dailyO
If you've ever wondered the skincare astronauts use while they're in space, or if you're pondering on that right now, we don't have information on that. However, we do know what they will be using from now on – this new skincare range created specially for astronauts.
What
- Two Japanese cosmetic companies POLA and ANA Holdings, the parent company of All Nippon Airways, have introduced a line called "Cosmology", which includes facial cleanser and lotion.
- These items were developed in response to a request from the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) for skincare remedies suitable for the resource-scarce, low-gravity, and highly arid environment of 'outer space'.
What's so special about them?
- In an effort to conserve water, the facial cleanser is formulated for easy wiping.
- The lotion is engineered to maintain a semi-solid consistency, preventing dispersion in conditions of low gravity.
- In 2020, the two companies initiated their collaboration on the collection, and JAXA granted approval to proceed with their concepts in March of the following year.
Next year, when Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui, 53, embarks on his journey to the International Space Station (ISS), he will carry these two products.
The developers of the new products have expressed their goal to enhance the quality of life for astronauts during their space missions. They have also noted that their product range underwent testing with flight attendants on ANA aircraft, considering the similarities between the conditions experienced during flights and those encountered on the International Space Station (ISS).
- These items aren't the initial cosmetics to venture into outer space. Back in 2021, former NASA astronaut Joan Higginbotham discussed her use of products like Vaseline, Cetaphil, foundation, blush, mascara, and lipstick while on missions, as per her conversation with InStyle.
- Additionally, Estée Lauder collaborated with the American space agency, NASA to send a skincare serum into space as part of a commercial partnership, further exemplifying the intersection of cosmetics and space exploration.
However, this is the first time any company has specifically tailored skincare for astronauts.
Now, if you are a makeup and skincare enthusiast, don't worry: you can also get your hands on this product. Known as the "Cosmology Space Crew Kit", it includes compact versions of the facial cleanser and lotion, and is set to be released to the public in October.
Following that, the standard-sized products will become available for purchase in January 2024.