Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  How can I assess skin condition using the Corneum Strip Tape or Sebum Indicator Film?

  A

  Customers who purchase the Corneum Strip Tape or Sebum Indicator Film can request optional five-level reference charts for each product. By comparing the collected patterns of stratum corneum or sebum with these standard evaluation charts, users can visually and objectively assess skin condition with greater accuracy.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions
  

  Q

  Which area of the skin is best for using the Corneum Strip Tape?

  A

  For consistent and reliable sampling of the stratum corneum, we recommend applying the Corneum Strip Tape to a flat and wide area of the cheek—typically near the side of the nose along the cheekbone. To ensure uniform pressure during sampling, the optional DPRES Pressure Applicator can help improve accuracy and reproducibility.
  
  For optimal results, use the tape on clean, makeup-free skin—ideally in the morning or evening after washing your face and before applying any skincare products.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  Is the quality of your Corneum Strip Tape equivalent to that of C&D’s product?

  A

  Our Corneum Strip Tape is made from the same material as the one formerly offered by C&D in the United States, and we confidently believe that our product delivers equal or superior performance.
  Independent testing conducted by third-party laboratories has confirmed that the adhesive strength and retention of our sampling surface are equivalent to or better than those of C&D’s product.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  Is the Corneum Strip Tape safe to use?

  A

  Yes. Our Corneum Strip Tape has passed a 24-hour human patch test conducted by an independent dermatological testing institute, with evaluations performed by a certified dermatologist.
  The results confirmed a high level of safety, making it suitable for use in research and clinical settings.
  However, please make sure to carefully review the usage precautions provided on the Corneum Strip Tape page on our website before use.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  Is the quality of your Sebum Indicator Film equivalent to that of C&D’s product?

  A

  Our Sebum Indicator Film uses a polypropylene-based film, just like the one from C&D, and offers equivalent safety.
  Several customers who have already purchased our product have commented that it retains absorbed sebum more effectively than the C&D version.
  Based on this feedback, we consider its performance to be on par with C&D’s product.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  What is the shelf life of the Skin Condition Visualization Kit?

  A

  If unopened and stored under the recommended conditions, the shelf life is two years from the shipping date. Please refer to the following storage guidelines for each component:
  ■Corneum Strip Tape
  ▪Avoid extreme heat, humidity, or cold. Ideal storage is at 10–30°C and below 70% RH.
  ▪Exposure to high or low temperatures may reduce adhesion and stratum corneum collection efficiency.
  ▪Store in a polyethylene bag or similar barrier to protect against moisture, chemicals, and air exposure.
  ▪Avoid direct sunlight or close exposure to fluorescent lighting.
  ▪For roll-type products, always store vertically. For flat-sheet types, lay flat and avoid external pressure or impact.
  ■ Sebum Indicator Film
  ▪Store in a dry, dust-free environment away from direct sunlight.
  ▪The optimal conditions are around 21°C and 40–50% humidity.
  ▪Avoid extremely high temperatures or humidity.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  Can I request custom printing (e.g., company logo) on the Sebum Indicator Film?

  A

  Yes, custom printing is available for SS1010 and SS1010D models of the Sebum Indicator Film.
  We accept orders for original printed versions starting from 25 packs (25,000 sheets or more).
  

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  Is it possible to conduct a skin diagnosis without using the Skin Condition Visualization Kit?

  A

  While it is possible to perform a skin diagnosis based solely on questionnaires or interviews, such methods often rely heavily on subjective input from the individual and may not yield accurate results.
  By using the Skin Condition Visualization Kit, you can obtain objective data on the skin condition, enabling more precise and reliable diagnosis.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  Can I use the Skin Condition Visualization Kit while wearing makeup?

  A

  No. Accurate sampling of the stratum corneum or sebum is not possible if makeup is present.
  Please use the kit on clean skin after washing your face or remove makeup from the sampling area with a makeup remover beforehand.
  Even after cleansing or removing makeup, residual moisture or oil-based ingredients on the skin may affect results. Also, excessive rubbing can alter the skin surface and hinder proper sampling.
  After using a makeup remover, lightly wipe the area with a damp cotton pad and gently blot it with tissue. Wait until the area is completely dry before sampling for best results.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  How long can the sampled stratum corneum or sebum be preserved after using the Skin Condition Visualization Kit?

  A

  The following durations are general guidelines for storage under ideal conditions.
  Please note that these are not guaranteed shelf lives. For best results, we strongly recommend capturing digital images of the sample patterns as soon as possible after collection.
  
  ■Corneum Strip Tape
  When collected from clean skin, the stratum corneum can generally be preserved for up to several months. However, we recommend evaluation or digital preservation within one month.
  (If collected from unclean skin, the sample may degrade more quickly even under proper storage conditions.)
  ■ Sebum Indicator Film
  Sebum dots collected on the sensor area may begin to evaporate after about one week, especially smaller dots.
  After two weeks, many of the sebum marks may significantly fade or disappear.
  
  Ideal storage conditions: Store in a cool, dry place at 10–20°C with humidity below 25%.
  If this is not feasible, avoid heat and humidity by storing in a dark, cool location.
  

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  Can I request a sample?

  A

  We generally do not provide samples for overseas customers due to international delivery constraints and shipping costs. However, in exceptional cases, we may be able to provide a small quantity (e.g., approximately 10 pieces per product type for Skin Checker products), provided that all shipping arrangements are handled on your side.
  We will pack the samples securely in a cushioned envelope, but you must arrange courier pickup (e.g., FedEx, UPS), send us the shipping label in advance, and inform us of the pickup date and time.
  Please note that we do not cover shipping costs or contact the courier on your behalf.
  If these terms are acceptable, please feel free to contact us through the inquiry form.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  Do you have a minimum order quantity (MOQ)?

  A

  Yes, we do. While the minimum order quantity (MOQ) varies by product, we’re happy to provide details based on your specific needs. Please feel free to contact us through the inquiry form — we’ll respond promptly and personally.
  

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions
  

  Q

  How long does it take to receive the Skin Condition Visualization Kit?

  A

  Delivery time may vary depending on the order quantity, but we always strive to ship as quickly as possible. For detailed lead times based on your specific request, please feel free to contact us through the inquiry form.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  The upper and lower edges of the Sebum Checker film sometimes appear slightly wavy. Is there any quality problem?

  A

  The upper and lower edges of the white film area may sometimes become slightly wavy over time. The film used in this product is made from a soft and flexible material so that it can fit closely to the skin. As a characteristic of this type of soft film material, a very slight looseness may occur over time, and this looseness can appear as waviness along parts of the upper or lower edges.
  
  The wavy areas are usually located outside the central measurement area, which is the gray section, and therefore do not affect sebum collection. Even if the measurement area appears slightly wavy, the film is gently pressed against the skin during use. The pressure naturally flattens the wavy area, so it does not affect sebum collection or evaluation.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  What is the difference between sensor-based skin checkers and Smartchip’s Skinchecker?

  A

  Many products commonly referred to as “skin checkers” are sensor-based skin measurement devices that are placed against the skin to measure moisture or oil levels numerically.
  
  In contrast, Smartchip’s Skinchecker is a professional diagnostic tool that actually collects corneum and sebum from the skin, allowing skin condition to be visualized and evaluated as actual physical samples.
  
  In other words, the difference is as follows:
  
  Sensor-based devices:
  Numerical measurement using sensors, mainly for home use and self-checking.
  
  Sample-collection type Skinchecker:
  Evaluation based on collected corneum and sebum samples, mainly for research, clinical practice, and product development.
  
  The appropriate type depends on the purpose and usage environment.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  Is there a recommended way to clean the sponge part of DPRES?

  A

  The sponge part is made of urethane rubber, so the use of solvents such as ethanol is generally not recommended from the standpoint of durability.
  
  For regular care, we recommend wiping it with water before dirt becomes heavy.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  Are there any precautions when using Corneum Checker?

  A

  Please note the following points when using Corneum Checker.
  
  ▪ Before sampling, wash the face thoroughly to remove makeup and dirt from the skin. After washing, wipe off moisture well with a towel and wait until the skin is dry before collecting the sample. As a general guideline, sampling about five minutes after washing the face is considered appropriate.
  
  ▪ Use Corneum Checker before applying toner, lotion, or other skincare products.
  
  ※ If moisture or oil remains on the skin, accurate checking may not be possible.
  
  ▪ In rare cases, sebum clogged in the pores may adhere to the film and appear as dark white granular spots. Fine facial hair or textile fibers may also be collected. In such cases, please evaluate only the areas where corneum has been collected.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  Are there any precautions when using Sebum Checker?

  A

  In skin research related to sebum collection, when sebum has been removed by washing the face, sampling is sometimes performed after waiting for a certain period of time, for example, about two to three hours, until sebum is secreted again and appears on the skin surface.
  
  Please note that if Sebum Checker is used immediately after washing the face, the amount of sebum collected may be lower.

• Skin Condition Visualization Kit Solutions

  Q

  Why are sample-collection type Skincheckers used in research and long-term skin evaluation?

  A

  General sensor-based skin checkers are suitable for measuring moisture or oil levels numerically at the time of checking.
  
  In contrast, sample-collection type Skincheckers, which actually collect corneum and sebum from the skin, are characterized by their ability to preserve skin condition as actual physical samples.
  
  For this reason, they are used in situations where results need to be reviewed later, such as comparisons before and after treatment, comparisons before and after product use, recording skin condition over a certain period of time, research, clinical practice, and product evaluation.
  
  Skin conditions that are difficult to retain through numerical values alone can be visually compared and shared when actual collected samples are available. This also helps with rechecking evaluations and explaining results.

Timestrip Solutions

Note: Timestrip products are intended for Japanese domestic use only. International inquiries are not currently supported.

• Timestrip Solutions

  Q

  Is custom design available for Timestrip products?

  A

  Custom printed designs are available for temperature indicator labels with a minimum order of 100,000 units, and for time indicators with a minimum of 50,000 units.
  For fully customized Timestrip designs, including changes in shape and structure, a minimum of 500,000 units is required.
  Please note that some sizes or shapes may not be compatible with certain time or temperature settings, so please consult us in advance.
  
  Customization for LED indicators like Timestrip neo is available from 1,000 units, and for Micro Data Logger products, from 5,000 units.
  Working samples are generally not available, but may be provided for a fee depending on availability. Please contact us for details.

• Timestrip Solutions

  Q

  Can I choose whether the activation button is on the front or back?

  A

  For most Timestrip products, you can choose the location of the activation button (front or back).However, for products with long monitoring durations—such as one year or more—the button is typically available only on the back side.

• Timestrip Solutions

  Q

  Are Timestrip products waterproof?

  A

  Timestrip products are splash-resistant but not fully waterproof.
  Do not submerge them in water or use them in conditions where the sides may be exposed to moisture for extended periods.If the product gets wet from splashes, promptly wipe off the moisture with a dry cloth.

• Timestrip Solutions

  Q

  Are the red (or sometimes blue) liquids used in Timestrip products safe?

  A

  Yes. The liquid used in Timestrip time indicators is plant oil, while temperature indicators use fatty acid esters—both of which are colored with non-toxic dyes. The materials used are considered safe, with fatty acid esters recognized as food additives by the FDA.
  If any liquid accidentally leaks and comes into contact with your skin, wash it off with soap and water.
  If it gets into your eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and consult a physician.

• Timestrip Solutions

  Q

  How accurate is the timing of liquid-based Timestrip indicators?
  

  A

  Standard Timestrip indicators are designed to operate with an accuracy of ±15% when used at a constant temperature of 22°C. Other models also offer similar accuracy when used under their designated temperature settings in stable thermal conditions.
  If used at higher temperatures, the red progress line will advance faster than normal; if used at lower temperatures, it will progress more slowly. Therefore, we recommend using Timestrip indicators in environments around 22°C.
  Please note that significant deviations from this temperature may result in timing inaccuracies. Be sure to carefully consider this when evaluating whether Timestrip indicators meet your requirements.
  For more details, please refer to the specifications of each product.

• Timestrip Solutions

  Q

  Can the display color of the indicator be changed?

  A

  The standard display color is red. However, for short-duration settings ranging from a few minutes to several hours, it is also possible to use blue.

• Timestrip Solutions

  Q

  Are samples available?

  A

  If sample stock is available, we can provide them upon request. Please contact us through the inquiry form on our website.

• Timestrip Solutions

  Q

  What is the lead time for standard Timestrip products?

  A

  Because Timestrip products have a limited shelf life, we aim to deliver items with the shortest possible time elapsed since production. Therefore, we typically place orders with the overseas factory after receiving your purchase order.
  Considering international air shipping, the lead time is usually around 1 to 2 weeks.
  For urgent requests or specific delivery timelines, please contact us via the inquiry form.