Foundations of Cosmetic Science

Unlock the science behind beauty
Whether you're launching your own skincare line or advancing your industry expertise, this immersive, hands-on course will give you the essential foundation in cosmetic formulation, product types, regulatory standards, fragrance design and sensory evaluation.

An international university partnership

Featuring presenters from the MSc Programme in Cosmetic Science at the London College of Fashion, University of the Arts, London, UK and the Chemical Formulation Design programme at the University of Canterbury School of Product Design, Christchurch, NZ

This course is designed for:

- Entrepreneurs starting their own cosmetic or skincare brands

- Scientists and professionals entering the personal care industry

- R&D, formulation, and regulatory professionals wanting a formal grounding in cosmetic science

Course Schedule (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily)

Day 1 – Foundations & Formulation

- Cosmetic categories, regulations & labelling

- Surfactants, emulsions, solubility, HLB, colloids

- Mixer types & scale-up principles

- Practical: Moisturising gels & emulsions

Day 2 – Skin & Leave-On Products

- Skin structure, function & delivery

- Sunscreen science & SPF overview

- Deodorants: Mechanisms & ingredients

- Practical: Emulsifier & emollient formulation

Day 3 – Hair & Rinse-Off Products

- Hair biology: Structure, growth, care

- Shampoo & conditioner formulation principles

- Mildness & viscosity control techniques

- Practical: Formulating rinse-off products

Day 4 – Colour Cosmetics

- Pigments, dispersions, stability

- Sensory & aesthetic considerations

- Practical: Colour cosmetics formulation

Day 5 – Fragrance Design

- Fragrance types, carriers, and delivery

- Regulatory overview (IFRA, UE standards)

- Practical: Fragrance design and formulation