- Paper on the novel material developed through the joint research with 
Sungkyunkwan University published in a major global journal
- A platform technology secured for the development of a transparent 
UV-reflecting inorganic sunscreen

Amorepacific R&D Center has developed a 'porous, micro inorganic material 
platform technology', which is a white-cast-free solution that reflects UV rays 
effectively. Related research accomplishments that will become a cradle for 
innovative inorganic sunscreens have also been published online in the March 
issue of Particle & Particle Systems Characterization, a reputable journal, and 
selected to grace the cover of its April issue. (Title: Transparent and 
UV©\Reflective Photonic Films and Supraballs Composed of Hollow Silica 
Nanospheres)

Skin aging is known to be induced largely by light. In response, there is an 
active development going on in the industry to create sunscreen cosmetics aimed 
at protecting skin by either reflecting or absorbing light that falls within 
the UV spectrum, the cause of dermal damage. Zinc oxide (ZnO) and titanium 
dioxide (TiO2) are widely used as inorganic materials to reflect UV rays. There 
are, however, drawbacks as these substances cause white cast when applied in 
their original form due to their high refractive index. They also lead to 
clumps forming in the formula.

In an effort to develop some type of breakthrough for these demerits, Dr. Li 
Yan from Amorepacific R&D Center Material Lab partnered up with Professor Lee 
Gi-ra and his lab in Sungkyunkwan University Chemical Engineering to conduct a 
joint research project. Through this study, the team were able to evenly 
synthesize and assemble micro-sized spherical silica particles that are hollow 
in the middle. The film produced from these particles can be adjusted to have 
even air bubble sizes and gaps in between, to be able to reflect visible light 
and UV spectrum rays. The team also discovered that by matching the refractive 
index, they were able to more effectively reflect UV rays while still appearing 
transparent in the visible spectrum. This is similar to the natural mechanism 
of chameleons or green algae that quickly change their skin color by scattering 
light.

Park Won-seok, Head of Amorepacific R&D Center Foundation Innovation Lab 
expressed, "The recent research results we have announced are very meaningful 
as we came to possess a platform technology to develop innovative inorganic 
materials. We will continue to verify the potential of this platform through 
clinical trials on skin." He added, "Amorepacific R&D Center will continue with 
its best efforts to provide health and beauty for the customers around the 
world based on our ceaseless fundamental research."

Since the 1959 release of ABC Parasol Cream, Korea's first sunscreen, 
Amorepacific R&D Center has been dedicated to developing innovative 
organic/inorganic sunscreen materials, powered by its research capacity in 
basic science. Their steady dedication to developing creative materials led to 
the 2003 release of HERA Sun Mate Cream, which incorporated the technology of 
the nano compound of organic and inorganic ingredients, and the 2019 launch of 
IOPE UV Shield Sun Anti-Pollution and LANEIGE White Dew Tone-up Fluid, which 
involved materials that stabilize poorly water-soluble organic sunscreen 
agents. 

About Amorepacific

Since 1945, Amorepacific has had a single, clear mission: to present its unique 
perception of beauty¨C namely what it calls 'Asian Beauty' ¨C to the world. As 
Korea's leading beauty company, Amorepacific draws from its deep understanding 
of both nature and humanity to pursue harmony between inner and outer beauty. 
With its portfolio of over 20 cosmetics, personal care, and health care brands, 
Amorepacific is devoted to meeting the various lifestyles and needs of global 
consumers around the world. The company's research hubs located around the 
world are dedicated to sustainable R&D that combine the best of natural Asian 
ingredients and advanced bio-technology. With its world-class products, 
Amorepacific is acclaimed for the innovative ways in which it is transforming 
global beauty trends. 

Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200427/2787001-1-a 
Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200427/2787001-1-b 
Logo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20190611/2492892-1-a

SOURCE: Amorepacific