Yanzhi: A Modern Twist on Ancient Chinese Lipstick

Reviving Tradition with Convenience and Style

Inspired by the ancient Chinese Yanzhi, designer Yuru Zhang introduces a unique lipstick design that combines tradition with modern functionality, allowing women to effortlessly apply makeup with a simple sip.

Yanzhi, the lipstick of ancient China, has long been admired for its unconventional makeup application method. Building on this rich heritage, Yuru Zhang sought to make this ancient product more suitable for use in modern life. The result is a lipstick design that not only pays homage to its cultural roots but also offers convenience and style.

One of the standout features of Yanzhi is its appearance. Drawing inspiration from the ancient Chinese Yanzhi, this lipstick design beautifully reimagines classical elements in a contemporary context. The sleek and elegant design is sure to catch the eye of any modern woman.

Functionally, Yanzhi sets itself apart from other lipsticks on the market. With a simple push of the bottom end, the lipstick paper is dispensed, ready for use. Women can effortlessly apply makeup by taking a sip on Yanzhi, making it a convenient and innovative choice for busy individuals.

The materials used in the production of Yanzhi are carefully selected to ensure both quality and sustainability. The plastic part is made of PP material, an environmentally friendly material that is safe for direct contact with cosmetics and food. The lipstick part is made of DuPont paper, known for its waterproof and tear-resistant properties.

Measuring at a compact size of 85mm in length, 55mm in width, and 1.7mm in height, Yanzhi easily fits into a wallet, allowing women to carry multiple lipsticks for different occasions with ease. This not only adds convenience to their daily lives but also reduces the use of plastic, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Yanzhi was a collaborative effort led by design leader Shiwen Huang and designer Qian Zhao. The project commenced in September 2020 in Milan and concluded in February 2021, with an exhibition in China. The design team overcame various challenges, particularly in the complex internal structure and machining qualification rate, to bring this innovative design to life.

Market research played a crucial role in the development of Yanzhi. The survey revealed that consumers prefer lipsticks that suit different occasions and clothing, with a price range of under 200 yuan. With the market size projected to reach 28 billion euros by 2025, there is a significant demand for beautiful, unique, and affordable lipsticks.

Yanzhi has already garnered recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Beauty, Personal Care, and Cosmetic Products Design category in 2021. This prestigious accolade is a testament to Yanzhi's well-designed, practical, and innovative nature, meeting the highest professional and industrial standards.

With Yanzhi, designer Yuru Zhang has successfully bridged the gap between tradition and modernity, offering a unique lipstick design that combines convenience, style, and sustainability. Embracing the ancient Chinese Yanzhi, this innovative lipstick design is set to revolutionize the way women apply makeup.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Bruce Tao
Image Credits: Creator (Bruce Tao / Designer)
Project Team Members: Design leader: Shiwen Huang, Designer: Qian Zhao
Project Name: Yanzhi
Project Client: Bruce Tao


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