Scientists develop new makeup formulation for soldiers

Scientists at University of Mississippi have developed a new formulation for military camouflage make-up, which promises to both shield soldiers from the enemy and provide protection from the scorching heat of bomb blasts.

The new formulation, which contains silicones, was revealed at the 244th National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society, as part of a broader symposium on innovations and ingredients for personal care products, reported cosmeticsdesign.com.

According to the scientists, in technologically advanced warfare, soldiers face explosives that can throw a wall of heat that said to exceed 1,112 ?.

The scientists said the new formulation defends any exposed skins, such as face and hands, for 15 to 60 seconds, providing protection sufficient enough to prevent an occurrence of first degree burn .

The researchers said the new formula is made with silicones , and does not contain mineral oil, mineral spirits and fatty substances – traditional ingredients, as the substances can worsen the effects of burns.

The researchers turned to silicones as they are non flammable since they absorb radiation at wavelengths outside the intense heat spectrum, and silicones have also been replacing hydrocarbon ingredients in many commercial make-up products as they provide better texture and transfer resistance.

University of Mississippi researcher head Robert Lochead claims that the new formulation is the first functional development in camouflage make-up since it was first used by soldiers centuries earlier..