Cosmetotextiles combine fashion and functionality by infusing everyday fabrics with benefits like moisturization and UV protection. This article examines the cosmetotextile industry, discussing its history, manufacturing methods, regulatory standards, and potential in promoting health through fashion.
Textiles play a vital role in our everyday lives, serving as both clothing and bed linen. While their main purpose is protection and warmth, modern textiles also offer cosmetic benefits, claiming to moisturise, slim, energise, refresh, relax, or vitalise. These specialized textiles, known as cosmetotextiles, are coated with microcapsules that contain cosmetic substances. Upon contact with the body, these capsules break and release the desired properties, triggered by friction or pressure. Cosmetotextiles provide a convenient option for those who may face challenges using conventional cosmetic products. By incorporating cosmetic properties, they serve as an innovative solution in the textile industry.
History of cosmetotextiles
Textiles have a long history of delivering health benefits, such as Ayurvastra, which uses organic cotton infused with herbs and oils for health and disease treatment. The pandemic has sparked a renewed interest in textiles designed for hygiene, like bactericidal fabrics, insecticidal curtains, and bed linens with essential oil release. These fabrics also emit fragrances through active molecules with a nano-helical structure. These particles have a hydrophilic nano-cavity and a hydrophobic inner wall, enabling them to hold different active molecules and perform various functions.
Functional effects
Advances in technology are making cosmetotextiles more wash-resistant. New chemical compounds and fixation methods allow for replenishment of fibres with particles and active substances. This reloading process can be done through spraying or adding a single dose during the final wash. Cosmetotextiles can provide various beneficial effects.
Textiles that enhance the firmness and elasticity of skin by releasing natural products, such as Padina Pavonica derived from brown algae, are beneficial for improving skin qualities. Compression garments can contribute to body slimming, reduce muscle damage, and maintain muscle function by increasing blood flow and enhancing muscle appearance. Skin moisturizing can be achieved by using textiles impregnated with squalane, extracted from sources like olive oil, which forms a barrier on the skin to prevent water loss and reduce wrinkles and fine lines. Integration of titanium dioxide (TiO2) in these textiles can further enhance moisture absorption. To provide a refreshing and relaxing sensation, phase change materials or high moisture-transmitting fibrous surfaces can be incorporated into textiles, such as Skintex Supercool, which increases body contact.
Manufacturing
Cosmetotextiles manufacturing involves different methods to incorporate cosmetic ingredients into textiles. One method is by inserting additives into the fiber during production, before the fibers are extruded. Carbon nanotubes, Zn nanoparticles, and TiO2 can be added to create fibers with properties like conductivity and UV absorption. Another method is grafting chemical components onto the surfaces of fibers, yarns, and fabrics. For example, cyclodextrin can be chemically bonded to the fabric, and then substances like benzoic acid and iodine can be applied. Coating textiles with various substances is another approach, including essential oils, antibacterial agents, and anti-dust chemicals. Lastly, the microencapsulation technique is used to extend the life of cosmetic ingredients.
Certification
Certification for Cosmetotextiles requires adherence to safety and efficacy regulations set by the European Union. Safety measures include toxicological assessments of the cosmetic formula, clinical research to assess irritancy potential, and dermatological studies to identify hazardous residues. Efficacy evaluations involve measuring care resistance and ensuring conformity with Good Manufacturing Practices. Skin assessment involves determining the effectiveness of compounds in inhibiting radicals, assessing skin permeability, and measuring antioxidant and antiradical capacity in various skin layers.
Future Scope / Conclusion:
The future of promoting holistic health through textiles is evolving quickly. Integrating cosmetics into fabrics using intelligent and smart technologies allows for innovative applications, such as skincare through clothing. Moving forward, wellness finishes will be vital in creating standout, value-added products in a competitive market where customer expectations are constantly rising. The cosmetotextile industry, a fast-growing sector, collaborates with other industries to meet the global demand for well-being using natural and eco-friendly resources. While currently a niche market, new applications could create opportunities in apparel and home-furnishing segments.
