Cosmic Care: Japanese Astronauts to Use Space-Designed Skincare on International Space Station
When Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui embarks on his mission to the International Space Station (ISS) in 2024, he will be equipped with two innovative skincare products specially designed to withstand the challenges of space travel.
Japanese cosmetic company POLA and ANA Holdings, the parent company of All Nippon Airways, recently unveiled a skincare line called “Cosmology” aimed at addressing the unique skincare needs of astronauts in space. These products, a face wash and lotion, were developed in response to a call from the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) for skincare solutions suitable for the resource-scarce, low-gravity, and extremely dry conditions of outer space.
The development of the Cosmology skincare range began in 2020, and it received the green light from JAXA in March 2022 to proceed with production.
These products are not only designed to meet the specific needs of astronauts but also to conserve resources and function effectively in microgravity environments.
The face wash, for example, is designed to be wiped off without the need for water, addressing the challenge of water conservation in space. In contrast, the lotion is engineered to remain in a semi-solid state, preventing it from dispersing in the low-gravity conditions of space.
While these skincare products are among the latest in a growing trend of cosmetics making their way into outer space, they are uniquely tailored to the demanding conditions of space travel. In the past, astronauts have relied on everyday skincare items like Vaseline, Cetaphil, foundation, blush, mascara, and lipstick during missions. Estée Lauder even partnered with NASA to send a skincare serum into space as part of a commercial venture.
The harsh environment of space can take a toll on astronauts’ skin, causing symptoms like burning, itching, dryness, and sensitivity. The Cosmology skincare line aims to alleviate these issues and enhance the quality of life for astronauts during their missions.
To ensure the products’ effectiveness, they were tested by flight attendants on ANA aircraft, where conditions somewhat mirror those encountered on the ISS. This real-world testing helped fine-tune the formulations for optimal performance.
Starting in October, the “Cosmology Space Crew Kit” will be available to the public, featuring smaller versions of the face wash and lotion. The full-sized products are set to hit the market in January. POLA President Miki Oikawa expressed hope that these products could find utility in other resource-scarce scenarios, such as evacuation centers during natural disasters.
As space exploration continues to advance, innovations like the Cosmology skincare line demonstrate the importance of tailoring everyday products to the unique challenges faced by astronauts and further highlight the intersection of science, technology, and personal care.
