Earticle

This study used the image-generative AI tools GPT-image-1.5 and Gemini to produce primary shampoo packaging designs reflecting Korean aesthetics and to compare the outputs under identical prompt conditions. Based on domestic literature, Korean aesthetic attributes were organized into five categories—form, texture, color, motif, and emotion—and then operationalized into an executable prompt framework using ChatGPT 5.2. The same prompt was entered three times for each tool, and the results were qualitatively analyzed. GPT-image-1.5 consistently maintained product-category appropriateness, including the pump dispenser, across repetitions, whereas Gemini showed greater variability, frequently modifying or omitting the pump while emphasizing traditional formal interpretations such as ceramic-like textures. Both tools largely reproduced the intended low-gloss matte finish, low-saturation palette, and traditional motifs/Hangul-inspired elements. Overall, the findings indicate that even with the same prompt, the tools prioritize different constraints—category compliance versus traditional aesthetic emphasis—offering foundational guidance for tool selection and prompt-design strategies in K-beauty packaging practice.

This study aimed to investigate the utility of a mineral material that emits far-infrared rays as a method for continuous antibacterial action on the surfaces of cosmetic containers, in case of long-term use after opening. Methods: “MD-lite," a complex mineral that emits far-infrared rays, was added to plastic materials at a concentration of 2-5 w/v % to create pellets. These pellets were then extruded through a film forming machine and then spliced by 50 x 50 mm as film specimens. These specimens were tested for fungal resistance according to the standard method “ASTM G21-15 (2021)e1” and antibacterial activity according to “JIS Z 2801" by FITI Testing & Research Institute, a specialized organization. FT-IR equipment was also used to analyze the components of the films to confirm the presence of minerals. Ilite, a single mineral, served as a control. Results: As a result of testing the antibacterial properties of the film, it was confirmed that 5 types of mold and 4 types of pathogens were reduced by 3.9 to 5.7 log levels, indicating a sterilization rate of over 99.99%. These results are judged to be similar to the sterilization level of chemical disinfectants. In addition, the result of component analysis using FT-IR confirmed a unique detection pattern of “MD-lite” that was distinct from the control group, Ilite, and the same detection pattern was confirmed in the pellets and film containing this substance. Conclusion: Films impregnated with "MD-lite," a complex mineral that emits far-infrared rays, demonstrated excellent antibacterial properties, reaching levels close to the level of sterilization. Furthermore, FT-IR analysis confirmed the presence of the added ingredients. Therefore, applying this material to cosmetic containers, similar to the film composition, is expected to be highly beneficial for quality preservation by effectively eliminating microorganisms that can contaminate cosmetics after opening.

This study reports the results of a study on the interfacial properties of glycereth-25 PCA isostearate and its skin care cosmetic formulation application.This raw material is an amino acid-based surfactant, which is a natural moisturizing factor (NMF), and has properties of both soluble and emulsifying power and moisturizing effects. The organic property value (OV) of this raw material was 1460, the inorganic property value (IV) was 2085, and the obtained IOB value was 1.42. Since the IOB value was 1 or more, it was interpreted as having excellent hydrophilic available thermal power. In addition, it was found that the HLB value obtained by calculating the molecular weight of lipophilic and hydrophilic was 14.0 to 14.4 (average 14.2). It was found that the concentration of the solubilizing agent used to dissolve 0.1% of Bergamot oil was transparently dissolved at 0.5%. In addition, the concentration of this surfactant used to emulsify 20% of caprylic/capric triglyceride oil was capable of stable emulsification at 2%. As an application in skin care cosmetics, it is effective in developing transparent solubilized formulations and is expected to be widely applied as a main surfactant in developing moisturizing emulsified lotions, essence, and cream formulations. As a surfactant with strong hydrophilicity, it is expected to be effective in making a D-phase emulsification nanoemulsion.

Barbed polydioxanone (PDO) sutures are widely used in soft-tissue approximation; however, integrated preclinical evidence describing how barb shape- and angle-design variables, including cut angle, depth, spacing, and arrangement pattern, influence anchoring behavior remains limited. This study evaluated the structure–function relationship of a Dual-Cobra PDO barbed suture (VSORB) using integrated experimental and computational analyses. Mechanical performance was assessed by tensile testing, ex vivo porcine tissue anchoring and load-to-failure assays, surrogate pull-out comparisons, hydrolytic strength retention under phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, 37 °C), and three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA). VSORB demonstrated higher mean load and greater anchoring tendencies under identical conditions, with a barb-design-dependent pattern (Cobra > Mold > Mono). FEA indicated broader stress distribution with reduced peak stress concentration for the Dual-Cobra configuration. These findings suggest that barb shape- and angle-design variables influence anchoring mechanics in PDO barbed sutures; however, no clinical superiority can be inferred without further in vivo and clinical investigations.

Traditional thread-embedding (Maeseon) therapy has been applied in soft-tissue regeneration, yet its mechanistic relevance to hair loss remains incompletely defined. This narrative mechanistic review proposes an immuno-regenerative hypothesis in which polydioxanone (PDO) bioabsorbable threads may modulate the scalp microenvironment. Available evidence suggests that PDO-associated tissue responses could promote a shift from M1-dominant inflammation toward M2-mediated repair, accompanied by regulation of oxidative stress, enhancement of IL-10–related signaling, and suppression of NF-κB activity. PDO degradation may further contribute to extracellular matrix remodeling and VEGF-related microvascular adaptation, potentially creating conditions supportive of follicular regeneration. Overall, PDO-based threads may function not only as structural scaffolds but also as bio-responsive modulators of immune balance. However, this review is hypothesis-generating and does not establish clinical efficacy; further experimental and clinical validation is required to determine its relevance for hair loss management.