Japanese Aviation Company Develops A Skincare Line Meant To Be Used In Space
Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui is set to embark on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS) in the coming year. And when he takes off, he’ll have a skincare routine ready to get him through the demands of space travel.
Dubbed ‘Cosmology’, this skincare line is the brainchild of Japanese cosmetic company POLA and ANA Holdings, the parent company of All Nippon Airways. Its inception was in response to a pressing concern identified by the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA): the need for effective skincare solutions in the resource-scarce, low-gravity, and arid conditions of outer space.
The Cosmology lineup includes a distinctive face wash, designed for easy wiping to conserve precious water resources aboard the ISS. Complementing it is a lotion that maintains a semi-solid state, preventing undesirable scattering in the microgravity environment of space.
While Cosmology is breaking new ground in space skincare, it’s worth noting that astronauts have previously relied on products from familiar brands like Vaseline, Cetaphil, and Estée Lauder to address the challenges of space-induced skin discomfort. Burnings, itchiness, dryness, and heightened skin sensitivity are common woes faced by astronauts in space and upon returning to Earth.
The creators behind the Cosmology skincare line aspire to enhance the quality of life for astronauts during their space missions. They’ve taken their commitment seriously, even conducting tests on flight attendants aboard ANA aircraft to ensure the product’s efficacy.
For those of us grounded on Earth, the Cosmology Space Crew Kit will be made available to the public in October, featuring travel-sized versions of the face wash and lotion. Meanwhile, the full-sized products are scheduled for release in January.
