For the POLA ORBIS Group, cosmetics are not simply a tool for maintaining beautiful skin, but also a way to appeal to human emotion. Even during the research and development stage, cosmetics are tested for their effects on skin, as well as the positive impact they have on the body and mind.
Research is conducted i four major categories: Dermatology research, the technology of dermatology can be used to solve skin problems and maintain healthy looking skin; Basic research, for the development of new active ingredients and materials; Safety and stability research, in the name of safety using the most modern and highest technology levels; and Cosmetic science and research, which focuses on the mental and physiological effects of cosmetics. The fruits of this coordinated research are applied to product development conducted at each Group company.
The POLA ORBIS Group has won a total of five awards, including three highest awards wins in basic research awards, from The International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists(IFSCC), a worldwide federation dedicated to international cooperation in cosmetic science and technology, and even seen as the Olympics for cosmetics. Materials that make use of these winning technologies have been applied to the development of cosmetics at each group company.
Age-old ingredients have been scientifically tested with a focus on research in pharmacognosy and natural sciences, and applied to health foods. The theories behind oriental medicine – Qi, Blood and Body Fluids – have served as the basis for research activities for bringing a healthy balance to human body.
Exchanges of technology have officially been conducted with Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences since 1984, and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine since 1996. Chengdu is the largest region in China involved in the production and research of natural medicine. This joint research has enabled greater utilization of natural medicines in cosmetics and health foods.
A high-quality image befitting of our products is incorporated into the package design, formed around four particular design philosophies: embodying images; approaching the five senses; pursuit of creativity; creating new value. Design is considered as one form of communication, and development is aimed at increasing convenience from the user's perspective, while also taking into account the global environment.
Package designs from POLA Inc. were selected for the most prestigious international design awards in the world, namely the iF Design Award in 2005, 2006 and again in 2009. This was the first time that the same company was selected for an award in the cosmetics packaging category two years running, both in Japan and abroad. These awards have been organized by the iF Industry Forum Design e.V. in Hannover, Germany since 1953. Products are assessed on aspects such as design quality, selection of materials used, environmental forethought and functionality, safety and brand value.
The two production plants in Shizuoka and Fukuroi that cover production of cosmetics for group companies operating under POLA Inc., ORBIS Inc., and pdc, Inc. incorporate proprietary designs featuring equipment and technologies developed to suit each and every product. The introduction of high-mix low-volume production systems capable of on-demand production enables the production lines to respond immediately to changes in market requirements. The production lines also incorporate comprehensive hygiene management to ensure that cosmetics are produced safely and with the highest quality. As cosmetics are applied directly to the skin, every care is taken to prevent the introduction of contaminants during the production process.
To ensure that customers are always supplied with product of the highest quality, both the Shizuoka and Fukuroi lines have received ISO9001 quality management system certification. A comprehensive quality assurance system has been established, covering the production department and design, all the way through to the purchasing department during every stage of the production process.
ISO9001 quality certification was first established by the International Organization for Standardization in 1987, and refers to global standard regulations for quality management and quality assurance in use in 147 countries around the world. Certification bodies examine whether quality management systems for each product and service offered by a company meets international standards, before issuing certification.
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