Research & Development Network

Although a laboratory was already in existence when Kao Corporation was initially founded, we first officially established a research laboratory in Japan, the Housework Science Laboratory, in 1934.

Our fields of research have subsequently expanded along with our business operations and we now conduct product development R&D in four areas in line with our four business units: Beauty Care, Human Health Care, Fabric and Home Care, and Chemical Products. Moreover, we focus our fundamental research in the areas of materials science, life science, human science, and production technology, working in harmony with overseas research laboratories in our daily quest to develop innovative products and technologies.

The research laboratories operated by Kao Professional Salon Services GmbH (KPSS) were established in 1948 as research facilities for KPSS predecessor Goldwell GmbH.

KPSS supplies the world market with professional hair care products under the two brand names of Goldwell and KMS for which KPSS laboratories develop products that feature the brand names including hair coloring, perming agents, shampoos, conditioners, styling agents, and tools for salon use. The laboratories also develop hair treatment techniques and information related to beauty for the brands. KPSS researchers take the views of beauticians, our customers, seriously as they strive to develop innovative products and services that will satisfy them.

Established in 1988, Kao Brands Company (KBC) research laboratories greatly expand the premium personal care business and conduct product development R&D for KBC. KBC supplies skin care brands such as Jergens, Ban, Bioré, and Curél, and hair care brands such as John Frieda. These brands are currently being marketed in North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia. KBC laboratories feel that it is important to help enable women to appreciate their own inner beauty, and accordingly create products that are not only immediately effective, but that are also attractive and pleasing.

Kao (China) Research & Development Center Co., Ltd. (KCRC) is a research laboratory established in Shanghai in 2006. Through research based on Chinese consumers and their preferences, KCRC works to develop mainly skin and hair care products that delight consumers and the technology that supports those products. In addition, KCRC takes a fresh approach to its research of traditional Chinese medical practices and Chinese herbal medicines.

Kao Chemicals Europe (KCE) Research Laboratories was established in 1999 with the aim of supporting the growth of Kao's chemical business in Europe by integrating the operation of research facilities of Kao Corporation S.A. in Spain, Kao Chemicals GmbH in Germany, and Kao Corporation (France) SARL. In 2005, Quimi Kao, S.A. de C.V. in Mexico also joined KCE, so that today research is being carried out in Spain, Germany, and Mexico.

Work at the three locations focuses on the development of various surfactants that meet local needs and research pertaining to their applications in various industries. Other research includes the optimization for European and American markets of production technologies for toners, toner binders, tertiary amines, and synthetic fragrances, and also the development of compound fragrances.