Influence of Cosmetic Puff Shape on Usability

We evaluated the usability of cosmetic puff in order to design cosmetic puffs with high usability. The usability in this study means the easiness to hold it in a hand and to rub face with it, easily. From the results of preliminary experiments with eight cosmetic puffs in the marketplace, we found that the edge angle and thickness of cosmetic puff had an effect on the usability. Thus, twelve puffs with varied angle and thickness were prepared as samples. A series of sensory test was performed using the samples, by rubbing the nose and cheek of a head model. Two types of holding methods were used for the testing. From our results, we found that the cosmetic puffs with edge angle of 65° – 75° were concluded as easier to hold and to rub nose than ones with other angles. We also found that the preferred thicknesses of the samples were variable depending on the preference of subjects. Finally, we could derive the design guidelines of cosmetic puffs in consideration of the preferred angle and thickness for obtaining the high usability.