[HCosChem]

Graillotion said:

Chemistry degrees come in different forms….4 year…6 year…and PhD…  

Depends on the company you end up with.

You could work for yourself….and make NOTHING….or…. make $$$ beyond your wildest dreams.

If you want to be happy in life… Chase your passions….not the $$$.

Right. Thanks for explaining that to me. I do want to follow my passion if I’m being honest. But I do need to earn a living too right? And that is why I’m worried about the money. I’d also like to mention that I want to do a 2 years masters course in Cosmetic Chemistry (specializing in biocosmetics). Do you have any idea for the job and salary prospects for that course? Apologies for so many questions.

[HCosChem]

Graillotion said:

Kinda like ‘natural’, the terms you used have been a little vague and misused.  To me a cosmetic chemist is someone that works in the arena of cosmetics and HAS A CHEMISTRY degree.  A cosmetic formulator is someone with some background and experience formulating in cosmetics but may lack the official chemistry degree.  They may have a degree in another field, or lack one altogether, but experience as we all know, is the best teacher.

As far as natural formulator, vs chemist.  Absolutely get the chemistry degree.  Having a chemistry degree does NOT preclude you from becoming a natural formulator, it simply means you will understand how your natural ingredients will function.  Doing things vice versa will ONLY short-change you and your knowledge.

At the beginner level….that is a little like comparing a couple of the common online course offerings.  One will give you the background of understand the overall concept, and the other has little regard for how things work.  (Note: I do not condone either one!) 

Thanks a lot for your insights and opinion on these questions. It really does clear things up and is helping me in making my decision as to what I want to do. And, apologies for using such vague terms. Also, I’d like to ask if you know anything about the salary prospects of a cosmetic chemist. Do cosmetic chemists (the ones with a degree in cosmetic chemistry) usually earn well?