Areas of research and development that combine technology and science.
1. Dermatology
In our dermatological research, we work with university research institutions to study skin physiology and cell function while implementing cutting-edge assessment technologies. We are also working vigorously on implementing alternatives to animal testing for safety and efficacy, building a system to evaluate the effects of cosmetics on skin from a variety of angles. We are proactively conducting dermatology research to help customers achieve the beauty they seek and hope to serve in the development of effective cosmetics.
2. Formulation Technology
We develop cosmetic formulations that use a variety of approaches, such as efficacy in skin moisture retention and UV protection as well as usability and durability. Our distinctive formulation technology featuring proprietary formulas made using ultra-high-pressure emulsification equipment helps us create nano-sized effective ingredients that allow for high concentrations and better absorption by the skin for high usability and stability. We also develop a variety of cosmetic formulations, such as surfactant-free emulsifications and highly biocompatible cell membrane components for emulsification.
3. Quality Research
To provide products that customers can use with peace of mind at all times, we thoroughly control quality in terms of safety, preservation, and stability. Every cosmetic ingredient we use is assessed under stringent internal standards, both general ingredients and the pearl-based ingredients we develop in-house. For water, an essential base material for cosmetics, we also installed ultrapure water production equipment in our cosmetics manufacturing plants in 1985. Using ultrapure water, in which even pyrogens (bacterial metabolites) have been removed and used in medicine, we strive for manufacturing focused on quality at every stage from raw materials to production.
4. Sensory Research
The most important feature of cosmetics is how they feel when they are used. Even if a product has proven efficacy, customers won’t be satisfied if it feels unpleasant when used. We believe that usability and reliable quality that create peace of mind lead to customer satisfaction. Based on this, we are working on research to interpret psychological effects of products from biological data and convert this into numerical figures and images as a way of verifying satisfaction levels.
5. Pearl Research
The Mikimoto Group has established a research group on pearl layer formation in partnership with university research institutions and other groups to develop cultivation techniques that allow for continuous production of pearls of the utmost quality as well as to develop cosmetic ingredients using pearls and pearl oyster shells. Pearl layer formation is thought to be a regenerative process in which the organism itself repairs damage and creates new tissues and has thus garnered attention in the regenerative medicine field. We expect the new discoveries and technological innovations that have emerged from our research will make valuable contributions to culture and everyday lives.
6. New Materials Research
Our original pearl-based ingredients are cultivated at Mikimoto pearl farms, where we have complete control over the marine environment, cultivation environment, and the genetics of pearl oysters. We use only cultured pearls and pearl oyster shells as raw materials. From these carefully selected materials, we extract and refine beneficial components to produce original beauty ingredients in our meticulous production process. Our activities have evolved from research on pearl-based ingredients to research on the effective use of marine resources and have expanded to the development of original ingredients obtained from seaweed.
