Fluorochromes – Excitation and Emission Wavelengths

Below is a very useful table of various Fluorochromes that can be used in research requiring precise responses.  For more information about Fluorescent Microspheres that utilize fluorochromes check out this related article. “Fluorescent Microspheres – Properties and Applications”

The fluorochrome table is also available for download as a pdf.

Solid Polyethylene Microspheres for Effects in Color Cosmetics

A recent article in Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine describes the use Solid Polyethylene Mirospheres for Effects in Color Cosmetics.

Flesh Tone Microspheres - Color Matched to Skin Sample

Micropsheres have been used in cosmetics for some time, primarily as fillers and exfoliators. Most recently scientists started to utilize light reflecting properties of microspheres for creating unique optical effects, such as optical blurring and wrinkle filling.  Due to light scattering effects of the spherical surface, formulating with appropriate microspheres can minimize the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone, due to optically reducing contrast on the skin.

The spherical shape and smooth surface of microspheres creates a low friction ball-bearing effect that gives formulations an elegant, silky feel. This ball-bearing effect promotes better blending on the skin and a more natural finish due to the enhanced slip, glide and omnidirectional spreadability, imparting a cream to powder texture. Outstanding roundness also provides lubrication during application, which enhances the tactile experience of a cosmetic product. Continue reading “Solid Polyethylene Microspheres for Effects in Color Cosmetics” »

Cosmetic Applications of Injectable Polymer Microspheres

Polymer microspheres, in particular injectable polymer particles with a diameter in the range of 30−300 μm, are becoming widely used as a biomaterial in different clinical fields, such as cosmetic surgery, reconstructive surgery, and urology.  Injectable skin fillers offer many benefits in cosmetic dermatology, allowing new forms of facial rejuvenation and wrinkle treatment without surgery. Injectable skin and wrinkle fillers are used to increase tissue volume, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin’s overall contour.

According to The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery,  two formulations of fillers that are based on microsphere technology are FDA approved for use, differing in design and expected longevity of results.  These injectable microspheres products are used for volume replacement and for deep facial wrinkles (such as the nasolabial folds.) They are not approved for use in the lips.

One of cosmetic dermatology products using injectable microspheres is ArteFill® – a new breed of dermal filler that offers longer lasting results than other cosmetic filler injections. ArteFill® (known as Artecoll® outside of the United States) is made of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres (miniature beads) that are suspended in bovine collagen. Tiny microspheres are made of non-resorbable polymethylmethacrylate – a biocompatable compound that has been used for years.  PMMA has been used since the early 1930s in such common procedures as dental prostheses, eye lenses, bone repair, orthopedics and in pacemakers.  PMMA microspheres are well tolerated by human tissue (no rejection). Continue reading “Cosmetic Applications of Injectable Polymer Microspheres” »