Microneedle Array for Precise In-Skin Cosmetic Gel Formation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetic delivery methods, such as needle-based injections, are uncomfortable and inefficient for delivering compositions like hyaluronic acid, and microneedle arrays lack precision in targeting and controlling the depth of injection into the skin.
Innovation Solution
A microneedle device with a base carrying a plurality of microneedles designed to deliver compositions that generate an in-situ reaction, using hollow or resorbable microneedles to penetrate the stratum corneum and target specific skin layers for precise delivery of bio-polymers and active compounds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If needle-based injections are used to deliver cosmetic compositions, then the composition can be delivered to the skin, but the procedure becomes uncomfortable and painful
Solution Approach 1:
The injection system is segmented into multiple microneedles arranged in an array, where each microneedle is extremely fine (e.g., 50-200 micrometers in diameter). This segmentation allows the composition to be delivered through many tiny points rather than a single large needle, reducing discomfort while maintaining effective delivery coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The needle dimensions are changed from conventional injection needle sizes to micrometer-scale dimensions. The microneedles have diameters of 50-200 micrometers and lengths of 50-500 micrometers, which are sufficiently small to penetrate the stratum corneum with minimal pain while being large enough to deliver effective doses of cosmetic composition.
2Reliability
If conventional needles are used for injection, then the composition can be delivered, but the precision of delivery depth and location is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Each microneedle in the array can be independently designed with specific length and diameter dimensions tailored to the local treatment requirements. The microneedles are configured to penetrate to specific depths (e.g., 50-500 micrometers) to target particular skin layers such as the dermis, allowing precise control over delivery location and depth at each site.
Solution Approach 2:
The injection system transitions from conventional single-point needle injection to a distributed array of microneedles operating in multiple spatial dimensions. This allows simultaneous delivery at various depths and locations across the treatment area, with each microneedle contributing to the overall precision through its specific dimensional characteristics.
3Reliability
If the stratum corneum barrier is removed using traditional methods like tape-stripping or laser, then composition delivery is improved, but the methods become impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The microneedles are designed to be self-inserting into the skin through mechanical penetration of the stratum corneum. The array of microneedles collectively creates channels through the barrier layer, allowing composition delivery without requiring external barrier removal techniques like tape-stripping or laser ablation. The system serves its own barrier penetration function through the microneedle array mechanism.
4Ease of operation
If microneedle arrays are used to penetrate the stratum corneum, then comfortable self-administration is enabled, but precision in targeting and depth control is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The microneedles are engineered with specific dimensional parameters (diameter of 50-200 micrometers, length of 50-500 micrometers) that balance comfort during self-administration with the ability to achieve precise delivery depth. The parameters are optimized so that the microneedles are just long enough to penetrate the stratum corneum and reach the dermis, providing both comfort and precision simultaneously.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device facilitates comfortable and precise delivery of cosmetic compositions, enabling long-lasting effects by bypassing the SC layer and allowing in-situ reactions for skin treatments like wrinkle reduction and firming.
Implementation Method 1
Microneedles have an advantage of potentially penetrating the stratum corneum
Implementation Method 2
enable diffusion of alginate solution which cannot reach deep layers with topical application
Implementation Method 3
induce polymer gelation, such as alginate gelation, especially using an alginate and calcium reaction
Implementation Method 4
generate an in-situ aggregation or precipitation allowing a film/mesh formation
Implementation Method 5
drive to long lasting and visible effects, especially tensile and firming effects, thanks to bio-polymers mechanism gel formation corresponding to an in-situ reticulation
Data Source
AI summary
A device including a base carrying a plurality of microneedles, and including at least one composition aimed at generating an in-situ reaction into the skin, scalp, or lips.