A Japanese firm has developed two new beauty products that contain a platinum colloid.

Rohto Pharmaceutical will launch the two new cosmetic products in its native Japan in July. Tiny platinum particles are suspended in the products.

Its Obagi Platinalized Lotion and Obagi Platinalized Mask will go on sale on July 10th.

According to Japan's Corporate News Network, the latest products help moisturise the skin and increase its transparency and complexion, reducing imperfections in the surface.

A 150ml bottle of the lotion is set to retail at 5,250 yen ($47.30), with the luxury mask costing 6,300 yen ($56.75) for five sheets.

It is not the first time that platinum has been used by scientists to mimic the qualities of human skin.

A scientist from the University of Texas, David Hanson, developed a platinum-cured silicone that matched the texture and shape of human skin in 2004.

His work potentially opened up a realm of new applications for platinum, such as its use in developing more life-like robotics.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd