New 3D Imaging Technique Offers Detailed View of Cosmetic Formulations

Understanding what happens inside a cosmetic formulation can be just as important as examining its appearance and performance. A new imaging approach highlighted by Novitom is providing researchers with a more detailed way to study the internal structure of cosmetic products. The technology uses X-ray computed tomography (XCT) to produce three-dimensional images of formulations without requiring them to be prepared or spread onto a microscope slide.

Cosmetic formulations contain several components, including oils, water, emulsifiers, surfactants, pigments, preservatives and fragrances. How these ingredients are arranged within a product can influence characteristics such as texture, stability, effectiveness and the way the product feels when used. Changes in temperature, humidity or mechanical stress can also alter this internal structure.

Traditional optical microscopy generally provides a two-dimensional view of a formulation, while confocal microscopy can examine samples to a greater depth. XCT offers another approach by allowing researchers to examine the formulation in three dimensions. With high-resolution synchrotron X-ray imaging, structures smaller than one micrometre can be examined, while different phases, such as oil and water, can be distinguished.

The technique can also be used to examine the size, shape and distribution of ingredients and phases within a finished product. Researchers can observe how a formulation changes when exposed to conditions such as heat, humidity or shear.

According to Novitom, the technology can be applied not only to finished formulations but also to cosmetic films deposited on skin, hair and nails. It may also support investigations into product stability and help researchers relate a formulation's internal structure to its observed performance.

22-09-2026