When I’ve spoken at high school career days, the most often asked question (after how much do you make?) is “How do you become a cosmetic chemist?” Since you may soon be looking for a chemist career that uses your science
background, you might be wondering the same thing. Here are 7 steps you can follow to become a cosmetic chemist. There are different paths, but the following has proven consistently effective.
7 Steps to Becoming a Cosmetic Scientist
1. Get your science degree
You could start your own company or work for a relative that started one, but this isn’t how most people get into the cosmetic industry. If you’re following the traditional path, you should get a 4-year college degree from a college or university. The most common degrees that cosmetic scientists get are Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biology, and Microbiology. You also find a few Physics majors too. For most companies, the specific school you attend is less important than the degree you received.
2. Maybe get an advanced degree
While a 4-year degree is all you need, bigger companies like P&G or L’Oreal tend to favor students who have Masters or PHD degrees in cosmetic science. The truth is that most of these degrees do not help make you a better cosmetic scientist. The training you receive on-the-job is much more valuable. The exception to this is when you enroll in one of the few cosmetic science focused programs in universities around the United States. This isn’t a complete list but here are three great options.
University of Cincinnati – College of Pharmacy
University of Southern Mississippi – School of Polymers and High Performance Materials
Fairleigh Dickinson University
You can contact the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (SCC) for a complete list.
3. Research Cosmetic Companies
There are literally thousands of scientists and chemists working in the cosmetic industry. Fortunately, the number of jobs continues to grow. This is an industry that continues to sell product even in uncertain economic times. Everyone wants to look good no matter how much money they’re making.
There are various types of companies that employ cosmetic scientists and chemists. These include finished goods manufacturers, contract manufactures, raw material suppliers, and testing laboratories.
A great place to find potential employers is through the trade journals. Here are three sources to find companies. In some cases (like the Thomas Register) you can search by state.
Happi Buyers guide
GCI business section
Thomas Register
4. Pick a job
In college, they rarely tell you what kind of job you might get when you graduate. If you are looking to work as a scientist in the cosmetic industry there are a wide variety of jobs to choose from. Use the list below to see which one best fits your interests.
a. Cosmetic Formulator – If you like inventing and creating, the formulator is where you should be. Most of these jobs are with Finished Goods & Contract manufacturers. A few raw material suppliers employ formulators in their Technical Services departments.
b. Quality Control Chemist (QA/QC)– If like working with GC, IR, and Mass Spec you might enjoy a QC or QA job. Every company in the industry hires these scientists.
c. Analytical Services – Closest thing in the industry to scientific research. Most raw material suppliers and finished goods manufacturers have Analytical Departments.
d. Process Engineering (PE)– Like building things and engineering? Then this might be the job for you. Almost any cosmetic company with manufacturing facilities will hire PE scientists.
e. Synthesis Chemist – If you loved organic chemistry, then raw material synthesis is the place you should be. Most of these jobs will be with raw material suppliers.
f. Regulatory Scientists – For the people who like science but don’t like to be in the lab, a job in regulatory is a good place to go. Nearly all companies hire regulatory scientists and (unfortunately) more and more jobs are being added. I say unfortunately because more governmental regulations make it tougher to create innovative cosmetics.
g. Sales – If you like talking to people, going out to lunch and negotiating, a job in sales might be right for you. Plus, these are the people in the industry who usually have the most flexible jobs and make the most money.
5. Get a job
To actually get a job, the first thing you are going to want to do is put together a resume. You should be working on this near the end of your junior year in college or certainly in the early part of your senior year. The sooner you have a resume, the sooner you can start sending it to HR departments. You can go the old fashioned route of looking through want ads or college career offices, but you can also use the power of the Internet. For finding jobs, try…
Monster.com
Careerbuilder.com
Careers in Cosmetics
6. Find a temporary assignment
Sometimes you won’t be able to find your perfect job right out of school. Big companies often hire people that worked for them first as temporary workers. Get your resume to a scientist focused temp agency and see if you can land your first assignment.
Kelly Scientific Resources
K Force Staffing
7. Network with other cosmetic chemists
Perhaps the most powerful way to get a job in the cosmetic industry is to get involved with social networking sites. We are going to create a forum on Chemists Corner so you can chat with other cosmetic chemists. But EVERYONE should create a LinkedIn page. (Don’t worry, it’s free). Here is where professionals hang out and post their career information. Think of it as a fluid, online resume. But it’s even better because you can strike up relationships with people all over the industry of which you want to become part. Another great resource is Facebook. People often list the names of the companies they work for and the jobs they do. Do a little searching and create some important relationships.
You’ll also want to get involved with the industry’s premiere professional society, the Society of Cosmetic Chemists. There are chapters throughout the US. In the UK you can join the Society of Cosmetic Scientists. For other places in the world, check seek out the IFSCC for contact information.
Society of Cosmetic Chemists
Society of Cosmetic Scientists
International Federation of Society of Cosmetic Chemists
Take Action now!
Cosmetic science is a great career for a scientist. It can be constantly challenging and requires a creative mind to make formulas that stand out. It also provides you the opportunity to walk down the aisles of your local store and see your creation for sale on the shelves. That is incredibly satisfying.
Do you have any ideas on how to get a job in the cosmetic industry? Leave a comment below and let the rest of the community know.
{ 64 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi, i have applied to pursue a cosmetic science degree starting in Sept 09, I am interested in going onto marketing and sales it is possible if you can describe abit more about this role? I would love to work for L’Oreal but i heard it’s hard to get in to!
Many Thanks Mandi.
Hey Mandi,
Which school did u apply your degree from?
Dear Author,
Would you recommand any magazines that has a good balance of commerce and science in the cosmetic market? Thanks
Hi,
I have a degree in biochemistry and I am very eager to become a cosmetic chemist. I worked at Givuadan as a viscosity tester and got to see first hand how perfumes are created and the color techniques used to perfect the products.
I really want to obtain an entry level position in cosmetic chemistry either as a lab technician or cosmetic formulator or even in sales. I absolutely love cosmetics and to be able to help create them would be amazing.
I dont know where or how to get started. When i see an opportunity that may be right for me I am always told I need more experience.
Please tell me how I can get started. I am looking for employment as a cosmetic chemist in the NY/NJ area and I would love love love to work at Givaudan (again) L’Oreal, or any other company that creates cosmetics.
Can you please list more temp agencies that staff for positions at L’Oreal???
Thank You!
i’m achemist enrolling in cosmetic and detergents and i’m interest in it and i call up on the concerned messrs to keep in touch with me in oredr to exchange the experiences . i’m eager for any body interest in the cosmetic and detergents formulas techinques and i’ll be grateful for all of you . thanks for all
ch_onice212@yahoo.com mobile phone 02-0164029752
Hello Jon,
Look at the list of Trade Journals on the right side of this website. These are all the best magazines in the industry that deal specifically with cosmetic science and business.
Hello Mohamed,
Thank you so much for leaving your comments and stopping by our website. Please continue to leave comments and we can exchange information that way. Eventually, we will be creating a forum for more direct discussions.
Perry
Hello Mandi,
If you have a background in cosmetic science, you will be well on your way to work in the cosmetic industry. If you want to work in Marketing or Sales however, you will be best served by getting an MBA, especially for a company like L’Oreal. People with Science degrees are generally seen as scientists & R&D workers.
Hello Adamma,
I would suggest you join LinkedIn.com (it’s free) and connect with me. There is a group on there called “Careers in Cosmetics” that lists various jobs available in the industry.
Perry, 44
now i read your comment perry and i’m cherful for your suggestion and ihope that . i’ll be in acomplete communication with all of you just i’d like to go in the way of the Activation of the ideas and proposals espically itend to built my small house from this field so i’ll do my best and i will not do that alone i need all of your support and I do not want to prolong yours . thanks for all and enjoy your life
Hi,
If you were to choose only one magazine to subscribe which would it be? As i am a student, i dont have the budget to subscribe a few, so which would you recommend? Thanks. Looking forward to great things on your website!
Hello Jonathan,
You can subscribe to Happi and GCI for free. Those are excellent starting places. Probably the best paid magazine for this industry is Cosmetics & Toiletries.
Mohamed, glad we could help. Feel free to approach us with any other questions you have. We’ll do our best to answer them.
Perry,
I graduated in May 08 with a BS in Chemistry and minor in Biology. I want to go into the cosmetic chemistry industry as well, but am having diffuculty finding a job that doesn’t require 3-5+ years of experience. I took a job that is completely unrelated to cosmetics (metal manufacturing) because I couldn’t find a job in cosmetics right out of college. I posted my resume online on the various career sites but haven’t heard any response. (how do you set yourself apart in the masses?) I have also looked on some of the chapters of the SCC and found no jobs for entry level. What would you recommend I do in order to obtain a job in the Cosmetic industry so I can start gaining experience in that field and not be bored to death by metal manufacturing! HELP please!
Hi Tanya,
One thing you might try is to attend an SCC meeting and network with some of the people there. Where are you located?
Also, create a profile on LinkedIn and connect with other cosmetic chemists. (You can start with me – Perry Romanowski)
Another thing that has helped many people get into the cosmetic business is to start with a temp agency like Lab Temps or K-force. They often placed people at Alberto Culver who went on to become full-time employees.
i’m in bad need of your support about color mixture and the suggested colors for hair gel and body lotion. besides to this i need a hair conditioner formula and an extra fixative formula. if you plz suggest me adirect steps with no useless expantions. i appreciate your interest.
Hi,
Currently, I am a licensed cosmetologist seeking to further my experience with cosmetics by pursuing a science degree in chemistry at the University of New Orleans. I am a Junior and am eager to start applying for Cosmetic Chemistry courses at any available institution to earn my Masters. Are there any suggestions as for which schools to look into and also companies? Any and all pertinent information will be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Hi, thanks for your advice, i will be doing a Cosmetic Science BSc in Sept in London College of Fashion which includes R&D, sales, commercial, marketing and many other aspects, people who wants to pursue a career in cosmetic industry should definitely study this, it will open a lot of doors for you.
Can i ask what does a cosmetic chemist role involves? I don’t know where is my stronger talent until i study this course i don’t know where my strongest interest lies within!
Many thanks!
Thanks for this. I was a Social Sciene major. I graduated 3 years ago but now I want to go into cosmetic chemistry. I want to be on the business side but understand what goes into making a product. Do you have any advice? I only have basic chemistry and biology completed during college.
It all depends on what you want to do. If you would like to work for a company in the Marketing department, you have enough science background but you’ll probably need some business classes.
If you want to get into formulating, you might try to get a job with a science temp agency like K-Force or Lab Temps or some other lab agency in your area. Most cosmetic chemist jobs go to people with chemistry or biology degrees. They aren’t required to do the job, but companies like to hire people with them.
If you want to start your own cosmetic company, then you can come up with an idea, find a contract manufacturer to work with and they will teach you all that goes into making a cosmetic product.
And of course, check back at this website often for articles on doing the job of a cosmetic chemist.
Hi Everyone
I am strongly interested in cosmetic science field. I will obtain my B.S in chemistry this fall and I am looking forward to pursue a Ph.D, hopefully in cosmetic science. I found on internet that the University of Cincinnati offers PhD in pharmaceutical sciences with an emphasis in cosmetic science. Does any one know about other university that offers PhD in cosmetic science?
Before I learned about the Ph.D program at the University of Cincinnati, I was thinking about pursuing a Ph.D in biochemistry, Material science (polymers) or organic chemistry. I chose those fields because I consider them to be the most related fields to cosmetic chemistry. In addition, I think that having a Ph.D in biochemistry, Material science or organic chemistry will give me more job opportunities. I would like to know your opinion. Should I apply for PhD in cosmetic science program? or Should I apply for a PhD in other chemistry fields and later on acquire the experience in cosmetic field?
THANK YOU
Hello,
I was wondering if getting an online science degree would be an option. I know that hands on lab experience is critical, but some online schools now have the virtual labs available for distance learners. Plus you could do some internships or volunteering to get some lab experience. I was just wondering if it could be a vialbe option because right now I’m not able to got to a traditional college but would still like to get started on earning my science degree. So I guess my question is, would an online science degree be a good option, or would I be messing myself up for the future? Thank you.
An online degree is an excellent choice. You can get one through the University of Cincinnati. Many cosmetic chemists are choosing this option.
Hi
I have M.S. in physical chemistry and I have beeen work in a manufacturer of finished products for 7 years. I am expert in hair care and I am a fomulator. I am looking forward to pursue a Ph.D, in cosmetic science. Does any one know about university that offers PhD in cosmetic science in Europe?
interesting everything,because I also try to find some info about cosmetics engineering field.
Thank’s.
Hello, I am a high school student and I really want to become a cosmetic chemist. The only problem is now that I am thinking about universities, I need to know which degree to get. My first choice would be Biochemistry but I don’t want to make a mistake which would cost me 4 years of studying for the wrong degree.
Could you help me out?
Thanks in advance…
Hi,
I’ve found the information about those cosmetic science focused programs in FDU and University of Cincinnati, but none could be found about the courses offered in the University of Southern Mississippi – School of Polymers and High Performance Materials.
- Can anyone help me?
- Moreover, are there other universities that offer good cosmetic programs? (in the US and in Europe?)
Thanks u very much!
I’m very interested in cosmetic science!
Hi Capucine,
I am undergraduate student and I am majoring in chemistry. I am looking forward to become a cosmetic chemist. Based on my investigations about this field, I can suggest you to first obtain a B.S in chemistry or biochemistry. While you are obtaining a B.S, I strongly recommend you to do research intership related with cosmetic. Then, you should looked for a specialization (M.S or PhD) according to the field of your interest.
If you have questions or want more infomation. I would be more than glad to share with you what I know about the cosmetic field. my e-mail is materesa53@gmail.com
Good Luck,
Maria T. Perez
In Uk there is two cosmetic science undergraduate offered by London Metropolitan and London School of Arts..
In France, the very prestigious ISPCA(opened by Guerlain) offers a two-year masters program. and also the University of Montpellier II offers a diploma (1 year) of cosmetic science.
Hi everyone,
Since there are many cosmetic programs offered by universities in France and in the US such as:
1- master program – FDU
2- master program – Long island university (pharmacy)
3- Montpellier univeristy (licence L3-ProPAC)
4- programs offered by ISIPCA Group (Frecnh and English programs)
5- also, Ecole Nationale Superieure de Chimie de Lille
I don’t know for which I should apply (I have a B.E degree, major in orgranic chemical engineering and I can speak both English and French)
If u can give me some advices; for example, which one is better? Which program I should apply for?, etc., that would be great!
Thank u very much! Hope u can help
I am currently studying a pharmaceutical science degree and would like to get into the business side of cosmetic industry. I have a fear I’m doing the wrong degree and may not be able to get the job I want, what do I do??????
Hey,
Im currently studying chemistry at degree level in the uk, and am keen to begin a career in cosmetic chemistry. But am a little confused, should I try to get a job with a company, or get a further degree in cosmetic chemistry, esp with the way the ecomony is going would this be the best way?
I have been looking into getting a further degree in the Fairleigh Dickson uni, is the best degree programe out there?
If you want to get in the business side you’ll be best served by getting an MBA. However, it would be wise to first get a job in product development R&D and then get your MBA while working. Often you can get the company to pay for your schooling. There are people who have successfully taken the route your following so don’t worry too much.
@Davinia – I think it’s always a good idea to get a job and then get a further degree. Often you can get the company you’re working for to help pay for tuition costs. However, getting a degree first will make you more marketable and should make it easier to find a job. Probably the best program is the one from the University of Cincinnati but the Fairleigh Dickson one is excellent too.
Good luck!
I’m very interested in the research and development of beauty products, but I’m not sure if I would like the highly technical aspect of cosmetic chemistry. Are there any options in the beauty field for people who are investigative and like research but aren’t highly technical?
I would like to ask can a botantist contribute to cosmetic industry? I love both cosmetology and botany. I hope I can apply botany knowledges in cosmetic. But i think only studying botany may be not enough for becoming a cosmetic scientist. So should I study chemistry(or biochemistry) and focus on how plants can be used in cosmetics, or should I study botany and focus on the chemistry wiithin?
Thank you:)
Hi! Thank you for this informative article!
I’m interested in working in the cosmetic industry for companies such as Shiseido, MaxFactor, etc (I live in Japan). But since I’m studying in a liberal arts college majoring in Biology, I haven’t really had a chance to take any courses close to cosmetic science, and there aren’t much internships in the field here. I want to keep other options open, though, and am also interested in medical research/biomedical research. Could I enter the cosmetic industry even if I take a Master’s in other science-related degrees not related to cosmetic science? Thank you!!
@Marilyn,
You could enter the cosmetic industry with a master’s degree in a non-cosmetic science topic. My degree was in Biochemistry. Most people who work in the cosmetic industry do not have cosmetic science related degrees. It’s just that the ones that do have an advantage when it comes to getting hired.
Hi Perry, thanks for your advice! I’ll see what I can do! It’s encouraging to know that most people don’t have cosmetic science-related degrees in the industry
i live in uae, as in dubai and i wanted to know if i could get a chemical engineering degree here and then get a job in some place like america. also, are there very good job opportunities in this field?
thnx!!
@Bella – sure you could follow that path. I think the cosmetic science field has slightly better prospects than many other industries. The place to be for this industry is in New Jersey. That’s where you’ll find many suppliers and finished goods manufacturers. Good luck!
thnx soo much!
hello
im a undergraduate student in pharmacy. looking to do a graduate course in cosmetic science in america . what universities have this course? or anything related to cosmetic sciences
thanking you
bhavana
I’m currently a junior in getting a BS in chemistry degree. My love is organic chemistry and cosmetics so being a cosmetic chemist, especially doing formulations, is my career goal. I did some research online and figured out that I won’t be able to work in a cosmetic company as a researcher without at least 3 years of experience. I really want to work before getting MS degree in cosmetic science, because firstly, I want some experience, and secondly, money!
How can I get a job or an internship in the industry with my BS degree in chemistry right after graduation when most companies are seeking expereinced chemist????
hey,
well i just graduated from high school, i am planning on doing a course on cosmetic science(bs.hons cosmetic science) in london college of fashion as its one of the few colleges which porvide an undergrad specialised course in cosmetics, but i am getting second thoughts now. should i 1st complete my ug in chemical engineering and then do ms in cosmetics or directly get into cosmetic science?
and i wanted to know if they’re good job opportunities for a cosmetic student?
@pooja – If you are set on becoming a cosmetic chemist then the program you are going in will be a good one. It has a track record of producing graduates who get jobs in the cosmetic industry.
However, getting a degree in chemistry or chemical engineering might be the better option, as it will make you more well-rounded and open up your employment possibilities to other industries. If you still want to pursue cosmetic science, you could get a job that helps cover the costs of an MS in Cosmetics.
There are opportunities for cosmetic scientists. The key is to start networking (as you’ve done by commenting on this website). Join LinkedIn and connect with other cosmetic scientists. Check out the SCS in the UK. Through them you can meet lots of people doing the job that you want. It will give you a good sense about whether you’d like to do it and where jobs might be available.
Good luck!
Hi Pooja!
I just want to let you know i am currently studying Cosmetics Science BSc @ London College of Fashion, are there any questions you want to know about the course? Although i am only on my 1st year at the moment
Mandi
hey! thanks for your concern mandi.
can you give me a few details about the course? and hows london as a city? i’d be glad if you could find out about the job placements college provides?
are you liking the course?
keep in touch!:)
thanks,
pooja
No problem Pooja! Where are you from by the way? International student?
This course is intensive even though i’m only on my first year, you will learn all aspects of ‘cosmetic science’ you will learn emulsions, surfactants, perfumery, micobiology, skin biology, surface chemistry, product formulation and chemistry all in your first year, it’s the end of my first year in 2 weeks and you will have lots of examinations end of each term.
Second year i heard you will be learning and formulating decorative cosmetics such as cream, lotion, eye shadows and lipsticks
3rd year placement is most likely a paid placement, you get to work abroad or UK, it depends where you want to apply. You will still have to pay half of the tuition fees!
I hope this helps
Mandi
hey wow! that sounds so interesting!
well i am from Bangalore(india).. you? i guess your a localite?
this course seems like the right option for me as i absolutely love chemistry n biology
are there any indians doing this course? but the only problem is the finances, its quite an expensive course plus my parents are getting second thoughts whether its worth it, i mean to spend a bomb on ug, and spend more to get a phd/Ms. so they want me to study chemical engineering and then get into cosmetics, i dont think lcf provides a pg course in cosmetic science, does it?
london is quite an expensive city right? whats your monthly budget like?
and how were your scores in chemistry n biology like while you applied?
ps: can you pls send me your email id.
thanks!:)
Hi Perry!!
I am a sophomore in college now pursuing a degree in Chemistry with a minor in Biology. After graduating, I want to pursue a master’s program for cosmetic cheistry. I’m really interested in the program at FIT in New York. Is that a good program or will it be better to attend University of Cinncinati or FD?? I live in a small town so the closest thing to cosmetics I can get is either a drugstore or Sephora to gain insight. Will that count as ‘experience’??