3-D Software Helps Untangle Hair Unknowns

CLICHY, France, Oct. 9 -- L'Oreal's scientists say creating a 3-D image of the hair follicle used to be one of their knottiest research challenges. But the cosmetic giant's research team can now create virtual 3-D models with the CATIA V5 computer-assisted design software from Dassault Systemes.

Bruno Bernard, project director of hair biology research at L'Oreal, said the software is a big improvement over the 2-D models they used to rely on for histological studies.

"CATIA V5 is an exceptional learning tool that not only allows virtual cuts from all angles and levels desired, but also facilitates understanding of the internal constraints and changes this organ undergoes during its cycle," Bernard said.

Dassault Systemes said the follicle software also expands it horizons. Etienne Droit, executive vice president of sales and marketing at Dassault, said, "Traditionally, CATIA V5 has been used to design cars, planes and machinery. L'Oreal is now using CATIA to study a living object. The long-term perspectives are very exciting, because the same approach could be applied to study different parts of the body, such as the skin, for example."

For more information, visit L'Oreal at: www.loreal.com or Dassault Systemes at: www.dsweb.com