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Learning Best Formulation Technologies and Techniques
Hi guys! Do you have any leads where I can learn the best formulation techniques and technologies in the beauty industry?
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5 Replies
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Go to College. Get a Degree in a related Science Field. Work in the Industry and be mentored by experienced Chemists in a reputable Manufacturing Facility.
No offense to online learners or DIYers. That’s just the most accurate answer.
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Cosmetic formulating is very much trial-and-error. You mix stuff together and see what works or doesn’t. It just takes practice and a willingness to fail.
Now, it helps to know some chemistry and to keep water soluble stuff together and oil soluble stuff together (mostly). And then find the right emulsifiers / stabilizers to blend the different materials.
But there are very few general rules. Each system you work with will be a little bit different.
What specifically is the goal you want to achieve?
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My journey was to first get a useful undergraduate science degree. In my case, I went on to an MSc and PhD. And next, you need some hands-on experience in a laboratory environment.
With this experience behind you, start working in a cosmetics manufacturing environment with mentoring. And try to get experience working across all fields including production, QC, and formulation. Also, some involvement in cosmetics compliance requirements for your particular country.
With all of the above behind you, then think about branching out on your own. It’s not an overnight journey.
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Thank you for that answer! Social Media is full of people thinking they can walk into a chemistry/formulation lab and starting creating a world class formula based of off Youtube and Pinterest. You wont believe the hate on a FB Natural formulation page where I suggested the same thing as was told I was being rude and you don’t have to go to college to be a good formulator. I assume you don’t have to go to pilot school to fly a jet.
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In my experience, you really need a Degree to get your foot in the door at most Cosmetic Manufacturers. Even with great grades in Undergrad, it was still a learning experience. Troubleshooting on the Production Floor was a valuable experience. I learned so much about Regulatory. I was able to learn process engineering. Again, you have to get your foot in the door first.
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