TOPICAL METAMATERIAL PLATFORM AND COSMETIC COMPOSITIONS BASED ON PHOTONIC MORPHOLOGICAL SURFACE ENGINEERING AND DIRECTED OPTICAL MICROCHANNEL STRUCTURES

Abstract

This invention relates to a topical metamaterial platform that combines controlled micro-phase separation kinetics, photonic surface engineering, and tribological surface behavior, as opposed to the traditional volumetric filling approach. The system in question offers a modular cosmetic composition architecture composed of biodegradable and environmentally friendly components, without the use of synthetic silicone elastomers, cyclic siloxanes, or microplastic-based opacifying particles. Following topical application, the controlled asymmetric drying gradient and micro-phase separation behavior result in the system forming self-assembled, oriented micro-topographic structures on the skin surface. Thanks to the critical mass ratio between the linear biopolymeric film matrix and the morphological lipid lock, the resulting film exhibits a highly flexible, low pilling tendency, and mechanically stable surface behavior. In some applications, the directed optical micro-channel structures and periodic surface geometries formed in-situ during application can optically reduce micro-shadow contrast by redistributing the direction of visible light in a controlled manner. This allows for a controlled, transparent optical blur effect (radiant blur) while preserving the skin's natural radiance. The platform described in the invention also creates a time-dependent tribological transition behavior, providing a slippery sensory feel with high spreadability upon initial contact, and a velvety surface matrix with a dry textural character after drying. The system is a modular topical metamaterial platform that can be adapted to different topical product forms, including serums, creams, gels, sticks, balms, primers, mists, liquid crystal emulsions, anhydrous carrier systems, and multiphase cosmetic formats, and can be manufactured with standard cosmetic production equipment, allowing for industrial-scale scalability.