Overview

This course will introduce students to the variety of scientific careers in the cosmetics and personal care industry and the skills needed to excel in the industry. Covered topics include product ideation, formulation, testing, manufacture, and post-marketing assessment; skin, hair, and nail biology; and claim substantiation. The course also includes a home-based “lab” where students can apply some of the covered concepts.

Syllabus

Module 1: Where Science Meets Business

In this module, you will be first introduced to the structure of the course. Next, you will look at the structure of the cosmetic companies and the role of entrepreneurship. You will also review major scientific and engineering areas in the personal care industry.

Module 2: From Concept to Reality: How a Dream Becomes a Cosmetic

In this module, you will be first introduced to how cosmetic products are developed. Next, you will review a product brief’s significance and how to write one. Finally, you will focus on product testing and the multiple areas that encompass it.

Module 3: We Are Watching You: Cosmetic Regulation Around the World

In this module, you will first review the cosmetic definition and regulations within the United States. Next, you will review cosmetic regulations found around the world. Finally, you will delve into cosmetic claims and how they are supported.

Module 4: You Look Beautiful: How Winning Cosmetic Formulas Are Created

In this module, you will begin by reviewing cosmetic interactions with skin, hair, and nails. Next, you will examine the ingredient categories, functions, technologies, and formulations within cosmetics.

Module 5: Love That Product: Creating Cosmetic Products That Meet Consumer Expectations

In this module, you will explore how consumer and clinical testing serve as essential processes in evaluating cosmetic products, directly influencing product claims and consumer satisfaction. Consumer testing involves gathering feedback from target users to gauge preferences and satisfaction levels, whereas clinical testing involves rigorous scientific studies to assess safety and efficacy. Fragrances in cosmetics play a vital role in enhancing product appeal, with selection based on chemistry, compatibility, and desired olfactory characteristics. Sensory and formula tests, along with product label reviews, are conducted according to established guidelines to ensure product quality, regulatory compliance, and transparency. Emulsification techniques are utilized to create creams, involving the blending of water and oil phases to achieve stable, homogeneous mixtures that meet consumer expectations for texture and performance.

Module 6: From the Lab to the Factory: Manufacturing Magic

In this module, you will understand the sourcing of cosmetic ingredients involves delving into the diverse origins of raw materials, from natural sources like plants and minerals to synthetic compounds produced in laboratories. Exploring pilot plants provides insights into the experimental phases of cosmetic formulation before scaling up to industrial production, highlighting the meticulous process of perfecting formulas. Quality control methodologies in cosmetics encompass rigorous testing procedures, including microbiological assessments and stability tests, ensuring the safety, efficacy, and consistency of products before reaching consumers.

Module 7: Career Progression and Course Takeaways

In this module, you will hear from a career panel consisting of Dr. Jay Goldring, Dr. Maria Sousa, and Manessa Lormejuste. This career panel will discuss training, careers, and their passions for the industry.