Beginning Cosmetic Chemistry 3rd Edition
Sure it might be a bit much to include my own book on a list like this, but it 
really is one of the best resources for introducing someone to the world of cosmetic science. The book is in its third edition and has been expanded to over 50 chapters. It covers everything from industry jargon, raw materials, formulating, and even testing. It also includes chapters written by other industry experts so it’s not just “my book”.
Chemistry and Manufacture of Cosmetics: Science 4th edition
This is one of the original, complete set of books about cosmetic science. It is packed full of technical information covering cosmetic science, formulating and cosmetic ingredients. Almost every industry expert has written a chapter for this 4 volume book series. If you have a question about cosmetic chemistry, no doubt this book will have the answer for you.
Harry’s Cosmeticology 8th Edition
The first edition of this classic book on cosmetic science was first published in 1940. It is now in its 8th edition and is one of the most comprehensive tomes on the subject. It covers all aspects of cosmetic science in 5 sections including the substrates (skin, hair, nails), formulation approaches, ingredients, specific formulations, and production. As a formulation chemist, you will find this single volume book an indispensable resource that you frequently reference.
Handbook of Cosmetic Science and Technology, Third Edition
Much like Harry’s, the Handbook of Cosmetic Science & Technology attempts to cover as many aspects of cosmetic science as it can in a single book. This 880+ page work covers everything from the biology of hair, skin and nails to cosmetic formula types, cosmetic ingredients and even cosmetic claims. Of all the books mentioned thus far, this one does the best job of covering cosmetic claims and testing. It’s definitely worth having on your bookshelf.
A Short Textbook of Cosmetology
I don’t know where I got this book but it is a nice, short volume that covers the basics of cosmetic science. It was written by an author from Switzerland so it has a more Euro-centric view of the cosmetic industry. Other books discussed many focus on the North American cosmetic industry. I particularly enjoyed the extensive historical section in this book. The book is significantly shorter than others weighing in at only 435 pages, but it packs a lot of information in those pages.
Surfactants in Personal Care Products and Decorative Cosmetics, Third Edition (Surfactant Science)
This book is a bit more technical about the science of surfactants than any others on the list. It has chapters written by a variety of cosmetic industry experts and is an excellent resource for the advanced cosmetic chemist. It is probably not one you want to start with but after a few years of formulating, you’ll definitely want to have it in your cosmetic science library.
Chemical and Physical Behavior of Human Hair
This is the most specific of all the books on this list and its inclusion is more reflective of the fact that I spent most of my time formulating products for hair. However, if there is anything you want to know about the science and biology of hair, you need go nowhere else but this book. It explains all aspects of human hair and is based on the latest research. In the hair care world, the book is so ubiquitous it is simply referred to as “Robbins”.
Do you know of a cosmetic science book that helped you which wasn’t included on this list? Leave a comment below and let the cosmetic chemists of the world know about it.
{ 29 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi, do you have any tips for working with organic ingredients for color makeup? Where could I find information regarding manufacturing, possible lab chemist contacts, contract labs that are working with organic raw materials etc. Million thanks!
Hi Mika,
at WNC we are launching a program of min one M€ on naturally colored pigments. If u have specific requirements we can put u as a reference customer & get samples for free etc. to help us move ahead.
Stan Idelsen
CEO & co-founder
WNC
A book to know more information about mascara.
I wish to publish a scientific novel on cosmetic
I m Rashed from Bangladesh..Its a matter of thoughts that there is no instituion in Bangladesh offering courses on Cosmetic Science. So I would like to know about cosmetic chemistry and short courses on Cosmetic Science where its offered.
Hello Rashed – See this post we did about cosmetic science programs around the world.
hi,this is abi from srilanka.working as a government pharmacist.shall i turn my job as a cosmetic researcher? B’cos i’m very interest in cosmetic flied.
Hello Abi – If you are interested in cosmetics then you would certainly have the background for a successful career in the field.
hi Perry
i need a books in cosmetic formulation basics
can you help me please
Hi!
My name is Inem Archibong from Nigeria. I wish to take up a course in Cosmetic Science but have no elementary knowledge of chemistry.
I would like to know if i stand a Chance.
Thank you.
Harry’s Cosmeticology is a MUST have for any cos sci student
i want to do cosmestic science as a career, but in my country there are no schools taking people for the program. how do i appl for the training? and how can i get the books at discounted prices? abby, Ghana
cosmetic microbiology is one book dat helped me a lott….
do you know a school in Thailand which offers the best education in cosmetic science?
There are 2 famous school of cosmetic science in Thailand
1. Mae Fah Luang University
2. Naresuan University
you can search the name on Google
I have need a cosmetic book and guide . thank you sir/madam
i want to know formulation of cosmetics items please help me
Vyshu,
If you click on the title of each book you will see all the information about that book, including the author.
please send authors name to each book
Adib,
Your method does not appear to be a typical stability test. Samples should be stored in several temperatures including elevated temp for several months and analyzed. Please read Perry’s post on stability testing for more information. Thanks, Kelly
In accelarating tests I leave sample in heat for 24 hr and after that immidiatly i put it in refrigretor.Is it right test or not?
i want to know about the cosmetics training program online
i want to know about cosmetic chemistry
i have comleted pg in chemistry.what are the jobs acc 2 my qualification
I am very appreciative for this list. One of my goals is to master cosmetic chemistry, this list will be of much use for me and my members.
You may have got the Short Textbook of Cosmetology from my company, Micelle Press.
There are many other books on Cosmetic Science listed in our catalogue.
Regards,
Tony (SCS and SCC member, Emeritus)
hello,i m qc incharge i want to know that after preparation of emulsion after sometimes it gets liquify how can we overcome from this.how this is formed.please sent us thge information
I would also recommend Multifunctional Cosmetics (Cosmetic Science and Technology Series), Volume 26, edited by Randy Schueller and Perry Romanowski. Multifunctional products continue to gain priority and attention as consumers are seeking and demanding more for their $$. This publication helps to define and clarify multifunctional cosmetics, provides practical examples and explains the associated value and impact of these products in various formulations. A very good read, easy to understand and a handy reference.
Preservatives for Cosmetics by David Steinberg is another must have book for any cosmetic chemist. Preservation is such an important part of formulation and this book is the most convenient reference guide.
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