3M™ Microchannel Skin System Technology

Learn about the science behind this exciting skin pretreatment method!

Developed with 3M's proprietary microreplication and micromolding technologies, the 3M™ Microchannel Skin System features a patch with microscopic needles strong enough to break through the outermost layer (stratum corneum) of the skin. These microneedles are made from medical grade plastic—they are safe and won't break. Yet, they are so tiny that pressing the patch into the skin results in minimal discomfort for your patients.

Drawing on its culture of collaboration and unmatched breadth of core technologies, 3M has pioneered advancements in microreplication and micromolding manufacturing processes. 3M's ability to use microreplication with other technologies has allowed 3M scientists to create unique and varied surfaces and structures from 0.1 to 1mm in length.

3M's microreplication technology began when an acrylic film was developed to replace an overhead projector's heavy and expensive glass lens. A technique was developed for making grooves to catch and concentrate light like a lens. That same technique was expanded and spread to create breakthrough innovations in virtually every business in 3M. 3M's proprietary microreplication technology is responsible for a wide range of breakthrough innovations in reflective materials, industrial abrasives, optical films, consumer products, adhesives, electronics and now microneedles.

Current 3M programs are advancing the applied-technology methods for making tools that create tiny grooves, patterns and more complex features that are the hallmark of microreplicated products, as well as the latest molding techniques to refine the shapes and arangement of those small features. The 3M™ Microchannel Skin System is an exciting new product that resulted from those research developments.

Utilizing core technology platforms in microreplication and micromolding, 3M Drug Delivery Systems draws upon material and process technology expertise from across the 3M scientific community to continue providing the next generation of pharmaceutical and biotech solutions, including the 3M™ Microchannel Skin System.