kepi cosmetics
DATE Spring Semester 2021 / 3rd year
An intuitive cosmetics line with a clean, unisex design that allows users of any physical ability to comfortably use the products.
The gap in the beauty industry
The beauty industry is not catered to those with disabilities. Many products are not suitable for disabled users, and any products that are were either made unintentionally or exclusively for disabled users. The few available products for disabled consumers are mainly applicators and focused on makeup products. This often excludes disabled people from the mainstream cosmetics market that includes skincare.
Vision Statement
To make cosmetics more accessible to everyone, including those who have disabilities and are underrepresented in the current mainstream cosmetics market.
A cosmetics line for all
Creating a cosmetics product line geared towards all cosmetics users including those who are disabled would help include disabled users in the mainstream cosmetics market. I considered disabilities that include reduced hand dexterity, visual impairment, and one-handed use.
Inspired by a clean aesthetic and modern interiors
I looked into design trends in cosmetics and interior design to consider how my cosmetics line would fit in the market and in a home environment. I focused on some keywords including simple, clean, unisex, and intuitive.
kepi cosmetics
An intuitive cosmetics line with a clean, unisex design that allows users of any physical ability to comfortably use the products. Each product features a raised logo and is in different colors for easy identification even for people with reduced vision.
kepi eyeliner pen
Unlike traditional eyeliner pens that are skinny and have no external features to help with opening or stabilization, the kepi eyeliner pen features a snap-on cap with an indentation between the body and the cap to allow one-handed opening. The raised bump also helps with grip during application and prevents the pen from rolling off flat surfaces.
kepi lip balm
The kepi lip balm also features a snap-on cap with an indentation between the body and the cap to allow one-handed opening. The inward taper at the top of the barrel helps guide the cap on and off without hitting the product. The turn-to-dispense lip balm is aided with a textured bottom and raised bump on the side for easy turning.
kepi moisturizer bottle
Unlike traditional tub containers for moisturizers, this bottle helps the user dispense a controlled amount and is more hygienic. It features push-to-dispense and locking mechanisms. Turn to unlock and push the top to dispense the product into the concave area on the top. The raised profile on the side provides leverage for turning and prevents the bottle from rolling if knocked over.
kepi toner bottle
The kepi toner bottle features a push-down pump and wider base to allow one-handed use. The lid snaps closed and has a deep inset notch to help with opening.
3D Printed Full Scale Models
3D printing the models gave me insight into how effective the physical features of kepi cosmetics are, especially ergonomically.
kepi eyeliner in use
Use the raised profile like a triangular grip for more secure grip
Or place finger on indentation for precise guiding
kepi lip balm in use
Push up on indentation for easy opening, and allow the tapered barrel to guide the cap closed.
kepi moisturizer bottle in use
Use raised profile and indentation to unlock.
kepi toner bottle in use
The deep indentation in the cap and push down pump makes using the bottle a breeze even with one hand.
kepi cosmetics at the SJSU ID CO’22 senior show
I created kepi during the pandemic lockdown, so it was difficult to get user testing. Finally, at my class’s senior show, kepi was in the hands of many people who came to see, hold, and interact with the models.
“Why don’t they make eyeliners like this!? All of these are so easy to use and intuitive. I have a bit of a hand [dexterity] issue myself; I need these.”
-Mom with hand tremors (2022)
“I have seen many design competitions and awards, this product is so beautiful, it could win awards. It is one of the best projects I’ve seen tonight.”
- Industrial Designer/Founder/CEO (2022)
