Guest Lecture | Biomimetism at the Heart of Cosmetic Innovations.: UV photo-protection of skin surface by structured epicuticular wax films
This lecture hosted by the College of Engineering's school of Materials Science and Engineering
Join the College of Engineering's school of Materials Science and Engineering for a lecture featuring Gustavo Luengo.
Abstract: Biomimicry- drawing inspiration from nature to design sustainable solutions- is increasingly influencing cosmetic innovation. I will present our approach through two examples.
First, the Biomim'Index, a tool we developed to classify cosmetic technologies as bioinspired, biomimetic, or biomimicry-based; guide researchers in improving existing technologies; and integrate biomimicry into sustainable product development.
Second, a study inspired by the photoprotective properties of plant epicuticular waxes, where we reproduced their complex structures by controlling wax self-assembly in specific solvents and conditions. The resulting films exhibited diverse micro- and nanostructures and significantly improved UV reflectance through light scattering. Ex-vivo tests confirmed successful transfer of these bioinspired morphologies onto human skin.
Together, these studies demonstrate how biomimicry can inform new dermatological and cosmetic approaches beyond traditional chemical absorption mechanisms.
Bio: Gustavo S. Luengo, Ph.D., is a Research Expert at L'Oreal specializing in Surface Science and Polymer Physics. He collaborates with universities worldwide and joined Georgia Tech's External Advisory Board in 2023. He became an official L'Oreal ambassador in 2024.