Just how do they make lipstick that won't kiss off, mascara that won't
cry away and sunscreen that keeps your skin safe? Cosmetic science programs
help students find the answers.
Cosmetic scientists develop cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. They
work as chemists, perfumers, product performance evaluators, testers, researchers,
microbiologists, and toxicologists.
In most cases, you'll need a bachelor's degree (usually in pharmacy,
chemistry, biology or chemical engineering), followed by a master's in cosmetic
science.
Cosmetic science master's programs are rare. The International Federation
of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists lists only three schools in North America
offering degrees in cosmetic science. They are the University of Rhode
Island, Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey and the University of
Cincinnati.
In high school, focus on a well-rounded curriculum that will prepare you
for advanced studies in science. Science and math classes are important,
but don't neglect your English classes.
"While the obvious courses are those in math and the sciences, communication
skills are also vitally important to success in any field and are often overlooked,"
says Randy Wickett, a professor of pharmaceutics and cosmetic science at the
University of Cincinnati.
"We want students to have a scientific background, meaning we want them
to have good information on chemistry, physics, biology, botany and mathematics,"
says M. Serpil Kislalioglu, director of cosmetic and personal care products
technology at the University of Rhode Island.
But cosmetic science requires more than just a scientific mind, according
to Kislalioglu. You'll be working with colors, shades and fashions, so, "you
should have taste or an artistic eye."
Painting will teach you about color, color mixes and shades. And dabble
in photography, where "you have to find out the best perspective of objects
-- I think this is also very useful for cosmetics," adds Kislalioglu.
Contact the Society of Cosmetic Scientists and attend meetings. They usually
have reduced fees for students, and you can take the opportunity to network
with people in the industry.
Links
Society of Cosmetic Chemists
Cosmetic science education and news