Researchers from the Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT) at UIC Barcelona presented a pioneering proposal at the 4YFN of the latest edition of the Mobile World Congress. This innovation not only offers a new experience in personal care but also contributes to eliminating plastics in the cosmetics sector, aligning with sustainability goals and waste reduction.

The product is a small, single-dose sponge made from natural waste materials such as seaweed, shrimp, and sand. It dissolves upon contact with water, delivering the same effect on the skin as a conventional cream. The product is completely freeze-dried and free from moisture, which allows for better preservation of active ingredients and facilitates transportation, reducing costs and the amount of water required for production.

The initiative has been led by Román Pérez, director of BIT and vice-rector for Research, Innovation, and Knowledge Transfer at the University, in collaboration with Begoña Bosch, the director of the department of Bioengineering. As the researchers explain, "The packaging of this sponge can also be used as an exfoliant." They also revealed, "We are currently developing new products with the same single-dose format and instant dissolution, such as facial cleansing products and serums."

"This innovative product would serve as the base excipient upon which each cosmetics company can add its own active ingredients, such as vitamin C or acids, and adapt it to their customised formulas," the researchers add. Some companies in the sector have already shown interest in this development, which could help them reduce packaging and further their compliance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.