Cosmetic Chemist Workshop

The Science of Beauty Care

Presented by: Lauren Trahan, Formulation Chemist, Crabtree & Evelyn

Workshop Description

The workshop will explain mixtures and using the scientific method to formulate a cosmetic product.  We will talk about the different types of materials that are used to formulate a cosmetic product and the benefits they provide for the skin.  Each participant will have the opportunity to customize a cosmetic product to modify the viscosity, color, and fragrance to match their preference.  

Leader's Job Description

As a Formulation Chemist, I am responsible for researching and selecting chemicals.  I use my knowledge of these chemicals and how they interact together to formulate a finished product (shower gel, body lotion, body cream, etc.). 

During the development phase, I need to make sure our product not only feels and smells nice, but also includes ingredients to deliver the benefits that our marketing group is looking for (anti-aging, natural, etc.)  I make sure the product is tested to ensure it is a) stable, b) safe, c) effective, and d) won’t grow any bacteria or mold!  I also work closely with other groups to make sure the product meets our cost constraints, can be evacuated from the package it is filled into, and can be effectively manufactured in our production facility. 

At the end of the day, I can walk into a store and see the efforts of my hard work for sale.

Advice for Career Path

Not all Cosmetic Chemists have degrees in Chemical Engineering.  I find my engineering background helps me understand issues as we scale up from product made on a small scale in the lab to our large production batches.  Chemistry is very important, to understand all of the chemicals you are working with and how they interact.  Math is important, as you use it to calculate amounts of materials you may need to complete a reaction, or even just to figure out how much material you need if you make a larger batch.  Biology is also helpful, to understand the structure and function of the skin, and what types of products might benefit different skin types or conditions.