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Process

Methodology

The project follows an iterative, material-driven research approach, focusing on fermentation as a living system rather than a fixed production method.

Material Experiments

Pigment Exploration

Dried red cabbage and purple carrot were selected due to their high anthocyanin content.

Both materials were fermented separately in kombucha liquid to observe pigment behavior and transformation.

Drying Strategy

  • Oven drying was avoided due to color darkening
  • Freeze-drying was inaccessible

Materials were air-dried at room temperature and ground into fine powders.

First Cosmetic Prototype — Failed Iteration

The fermented powders were integrated into a basic wax-based lipstick formulation.

Observed results:

  • crumbly texture
  • poor spreadability
  • no visible color payoff

Reflection

This failure highlighted the need for alternative binding systems and higher pigment concentration.

Rather than forcing a cosmetic outcome, the research shifted toward understanding fermentation as a living material system.

SCOBY Development

Healing Fermentation Experiments

Kombucha was combined with plant-based herbal infusions traditionally associated with soothing and healing properties.

These mixtures were fermented to explore their potential for skin bandage and patch applications.

Fermentation Observation

▶️ Watch Fermentation Observation Video

SCOBY Formation

During fermentation, multiple SCOBY layers formed on the surface.

This stage is critical for transforming the material into powder-based or rehydratable skin-contact systems.

Ongoing Fermentation

▶️ Watch Ongoing Fermentation Video

Current Stage — SCOBY Drying

Multiple SCOBY sheets have been successfully developed and are currently in the drying phase.

The material shows:

  • soft natural beige tones
  • variation in scent depending on herbal infusion
  • increased aromatic intensity through fermentation

Next Steps

  • Powder processing
  • Rehydration testing
  • Skin bandage prototyping
  • Final material documentation

This phase marks the transition from living fermentation to functional biomaterial.