Hydrophobic Actives Technology To Protect Skin Showcased at Fashion Sustainability Summit 2022

At the “Enable the Change Sustainability Summit” organised by the Textile and Fashion Federation (TaFF) on 6 July at Hilton Singapore Orchard, A*STAR’s Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2) presented its latest sustainable solution for skin protection to Guest-of-Honour Ms Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, industry leaders and enterprises. 

This technology incorporates the encapsulation of hydrophobic actives in polysaccharide capsules for functionalization of textiles and personal care products.

The human skin serves to protect the body from external conditions. A healthy and well-nourished skin is key for well being and a younger look. However, a busy lifestyle often leads to skincare to be neglected.

ISCE2 scientist Dr. Agata Maria Brzozowska and Singapore Institute of Food And Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI) scientist Maria N. Anitipina researched into this problem and hypothesised that smart textiles incorporating nourishing and protective agents - which take care of the skin while we are wearing them - can become an excellent solution.

The team developed an easily adaptable technology for functionalisation of textiles. It includes a cost-efficient and environmentally friendly microencapsulation system for hydrophobic actives, and a method to incorporate the capsules into textiles through a process conventionally used by the textile industry.

The developed technology enables the skincare agent to reside on fabric over at least 50 regular laundry cycles. Early customer testimonials have shown positive reception.