Apparatus and method for custom cosmetic dispensing

1. A retail point-of-sale custom cosmetic formulation dispenser, comprising:

a) a ingredient carrier that is mounted for translation by a motor about at least one axis;

b) a plurality of containers each filled with a different ingredient for a custom cosmetic formulation, and each being mounted to the ingredient carrier;

c) an automated actuator for dispensing the ingredients from the containers;

d) a holder for receiving and holding a package into which the custom cosmetic is to be dispensed;

e) a housing for substantially enclosing the plurality of containers and the ingredient carrier,

f) means for controlling the temperature of ingredients during dispensing;

g) at least one sensor for detecting the presence of a part that moves within the dispenser;

h) a mixer device for mixing contents dispensed into the package; and

i) means for attaching and/or removing a lid from the package.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the holder includes a chuck.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the actuator is adapted for dispensing one ingredient at a time from the containers.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein an actuator is provided for each of the containers.

5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the housing further comprises a transparent panel.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the actuator includes a push rod that is slidingly mounted in a frame and has a free end for depressing the plunger.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the actuator further comprises at least one sensor for detecting the relative position of the push rod.

8. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a track for transferring a cosmetic package within the housing.