I want to start this story by pointing out that we are only four days away from April Fools. This product seems like it could be legitimate but due to the timing and its capabilities, it’s very questionable.
Back in May of last year a woman named Grace Choi unveiled a device that could forever change the way women (or men) purchase and apply their makeup. Called Mink, the machine is able to 
rapidly print all sorts of makeups from lipstick to eye shadow, nail polish and more. The printer, which should be priced at around $300 when it hits the market, utilizes a base makeup substrate along with an ink to produce pretty much any color makeup the user desires. Although a firm launch date has yet to be announced, when the product does come to market it will be very interesting to see how well it is received.
While waiting for Mink, women may have yet another incredibly innovate option when it comes to makeup, and yes it also uses 3D printing technology. Stockholm, Sweden-based skincare company, Foreo, has just unveiled MODA, ‘the world’s first digital makeup artist’.
MODA will supposedly integrate cutting edge 3D printing technology with the most advanced real-time facial mapping software on the market. It all starts with a simple, intuitive mobile application where the user can choose from a library of dozens of pre-set looks. Once chosen, the look can be previewed on an image of the users face, and if they like what they see, they simply place their face into the printer, it scans their facial geometries and then 3D prints the makeup onto their skin in just 30 seconds. The website even claims that the mobile app will allow users to browse and select from a library of celebrity makeup looks, replicating the hottest red carpet styles onto their own faces. Can’t find a look you think goes with your facial features? Then the application will do so for you. The ‘Uniquely You’ mode will suggest looks based on an individual’s facial geometries.
The makeup is applied in three steps, using 2,000 very fine nozzles which are able to simultaneously adjust with an accuracy of 40 microns. The first step is a primer which ensures long-lasting coverage as well as protection from UV rays via its SPF formula. The next layer is a foundation which provides highlighting and contouring to the wearer’s face. The final 3D printed layer is high-impact color for the cheeks, lips, and eyes.
The company has yet to release any information on what a machine like this will cost, or when it would become available. The skeptic in me says this may be an early April Fools joke, however, the 3D printing enthusiast in me says this technology is entirely possible, theoretically. If Foreo actually does plan on releasing this product, it will be a complete makeup revolution.
‘3D printing’ has become a buzzword of sorts. The phrase alone attracts media attention like nothing else. Could this be a well timed publicity stunt in order to drive traffic and garner free marketing? Yes it could be. Could this product actually exist? I guess we will have to wait a few more days to find out. What do you think? Is the Foreo MODA 3D printer an actual forthcoming product, or is it one of many April Fools jokes we will likely encounter over the next several days? Discuss in the Foreo MODA forum thread on 3DPB.com. Check out the video below from Foreo discussing this product:
