A collaboration between researchers from MIT, Massachusetts General Hospital, Olivo Labs, and Living Proof has produced a new polymer designed for application on the the skin where it acts as a shield against the elements. The material also offers the added benefit of smoothing out wrinkles and tightening the epidermis.

This compound would be especially useful in cosmetic applications and protecting wounds and sutures. The polymer’s creators are hopeful that future uses might include optimal drug delivery to treat eczema and other forms of dermatitis.

Click here to read the publication in MIT News.