Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui is set to journey to the International Space Station (ISS) in 2024 with a unique addition to his luggage – a set of skincare products meticulously designed for the demanding conditions of outer space.
These groundbreaking cosmetics, a facial cleanser, and lotion are the latest offerings from the “Cosmology” line, a collaboration between Japanese cosmetic company POLA and ANA Holdings, the parent company of All Nippon Airways. This revolutionary skincare collection is a response to a call from the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) for innovative solutions to address the skincare challenges posed by the resource-scarce, low-gravity and exceedingly dry environment of space.
The development of these specialized products began in 2020, and after rigorous testing and refinement, JAXA granted its approval in March of the subsequent year. The facial cleanser has been ingeniously designed for ease of use, with the ability to be simply wiped off to conserve precious water resources. The lotion, on the other hand, maintains a semi-solid state, preventing it from scattering in the microgravity environment of space.
While these space-inspired cosmetics are a first for Japan, they are not the pioneers in the realm of extraterrestrial skincare. In 2021, former NASA astronaut Joan Higginbotham shared her use of everyday skincare products like Vaseline, Cetaphil, foundation, blush, mascara, and lipstick during her missions. Additionally, Estée Lauder embarked on a unique collaboration with NASA, sending a skincare serum into space as part of a commercial partnership with the American space agency.
The challenges of space travel take a toll on astronauts’ skin, both during their missions and upon reentry to Earth’s atmosphere. Many have reported discomforts such as burning sensations, itching, dryness, and heightened skin sensitivity.
The Cosmology skincare products, with their innovative approach to addressing these challenges, are expected to not only benefit astronauts but also potentially find applications in other resource-scarce situations, such as in evacuation centers during natural disasters, according to POLA President Miki Oikawa.
The development of these skincare products represents a significant step forward in enhancing the quality of life for astronauts on extended space missions. These revolutionary cosmetics are not only set to make their debut in the cosmos but will also be available to the public as the “Cosmology Space Crew Kit” in October, featuring smaller versions of the cleansing wash and lotion. The full-sized products will be launched for commercial sale in January. With the cosmos as their laboratory, these pioneering products are poised to redefine skincare for space travelers and may hold exciting potential for life on Earth as well.
