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Get the Skills to Become a Cosmetic Science Professional

Learn all about Cosmetic Science and lab procedures in this 100% online course

Online Cosmetic Science & Chemistry Certificate Course

Are you interested in learning about the scientific concepts behind your favorite beauty products? GLOW College’s Cosmetic Science & Chemistry Certificate Course will provide you with the skills and training needed to understand the chemistry of cosmetics, skincare, fragrances, and the ingredients in them. Start learning for as little as $450/month.

Self-Paced, Start Any Time

This Cosmetic Science & Chemistry Certificate Course is delivered 100% online so you can advance your cosmetic career with the flexibility and support you need to succeed. You can balance work, family and other commitments while you get the skills to build a brighter future.

The Cosmetic Science & Chemistry Certificate course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the science behind cosmetic product development. From learning the intricacies of cosmetic color and skin biology to mastering the art of formulation and understanding the role of microbiology, this course will equip you with the scientific knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in the dynamic and growing field of cosmetic science. With a solid foundation in chemistry, biology, and microbiology, you’ll be well-prepared to contribute to the development of safe, effective, and market-ready cosmetic products.

1. Science of Cosmetic Colour

Color is a critical element in the development of cosmetics, influencing consumer preferences and product effectiveness. In this module, you’ll explore the science behind cosmetic color, including the principles of color chemistry, color pigments, and dyes. You’ll learn about different types of colorants used in cosmetics, such as natural versus synthetic pigments, their stability, and how they interact with other ingredients. Additionally, you’ll examine regulatory standards and safety concerns surrounding the use of colorants in cosmetic products. This knowledge will help you understand how to choose and incorporate colors that are both safe and appealing to consumers, contributing to the visual appeal and marketability of cosmetic products.

2. Skin

The skin is the largest organ of the body and plays a vital role in the efficacy and safety of cosmetic products. In this section, you’ll study the structure and function of the skin, including the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis, and how these layers interact with cosmetic formulations. You’ll learn about skin types, skin conditions, and how these factors influence product performance. The module will also cover skin absorption and penetration, helping you understand how cosmetic ingredients interact with the skin and how to design products that are both effective and safe. This foundational knowledge is essential for formulating products such as moisturizers, cleansers, and sunscreens that are tailored to different skin needs.

3. Hair and Fragrances

Hair care products are a significant category within the cosmetic industry, and understanding hair structure and composition is essential for developing effective formulations. This module delves into the science of hair, covering the anatomy of hair, types of hair, and the different factors that affect hair health and appearance. You’ll also explore the role of ingredients in hair care formulations, such as shampoos, conditioners, and treatments, and how they interact with the hair and scalp.

In addition, you will study the chemistry behind cosmetic fragrances—one of the most sensory-driven aspects of personal care products. You’ll learn how fragrances are created, the various types of fragrance ingredients, and how to balance scents to enhance the appeal of cosmetics. You will also gain insights into the challenges of formulating fragrances that are both safe and effective in various cosmetic products. This module provides a holistic approach to understanding how hair care products and fragrances influence consumer satisfaction and product performance.

4. Cosmetic Microbiology

Cosmetic microbiology is crucial for ensuring the safety, stability, and quality of cosmetic products. In this module, you will explore the science of microbes in the context of cosmetic products, learning about bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that may contaminate products. You’ll study how preservatives and antimicrobial agents are used to prevent microbial growth and extend the shelf life of products. This module will also cover the testing methods used to assess the microbiological safety of products, including preservation efficacy testing and contamination risk assessment. Understanding these principles is vital for developing products that are not only effective but also safe for consumers, free from harmful microbial contamination.

5. Lab Etiquette

Lab etiquette is fundamental to ensuring the safety, cleanliness, and accuracy of your formulations and experiments. In this module, you will learn the essential practices for working in a cosmetic science lab, including proper safety protocols, handling chemicals, and maintaining a sterile work environment. You’ll also learn how to document experiments, track formulations, and manage laboratory equipment. Good lab etiquette ensures that all experiments and formulations are conducted with precision, reducing the risk of contamination or errors in product development. This section also emphasizes the importance of adhering to regulatory standards and ethical guidelines in the cosmetic industry, ensuring that the products you develop are both safe and compliant with industry regulations.

6. Formulation Overview

The Cosmetic Science & Chemistry Certificate emphasizes understanding the formulation process of cosmetic products, covering ingredient selection, types of formulations (like creams and gels), and the importance of excipients and ingredient synergy. The module explores the science behind emulsions, surfactants, thickeners, and stabilizers, equipping you with skills to create stable and effective formulations. Additionally, it addresses testing processes for product safety, efficacy, and consumer appeal, ultimately providing a comprehensive grasp of creating innovative cosmetics that meet industry standards.

The best way to see if GLOW College is the right fit for you is to come and tour the school. You can tour our facilities and meet with students and instructors. Book an appointment now or Get more info.

Is a Career as a Cosmetic Science Professional Right for You? Take the Glow College Cosmetic Science Career Training Readiness Quiz

This fun, online quiz takes 3-minutes to complete and you’ll get a personalized report. Identify your strengths and social style plus the training and positions you’re best suited for. Get Your Career Training Readiness score now.

LendCare Financing

GLOW College offers a NEW 0% Financial Aid option through LendCare. LendCare offers an easy-to-use, online financing solution, with express credit decisions, accessible from anywhere you are, 24/7.

Apply Now!

To apply for Financial Aid through LendCare, please select your preferred campus from the list below. You will be directed to the application form for your chosen campus.

Click here for more information about GLOW College’s financial aid options.

Enrollment Terms:

Fees include Tuition and free Virtual Seat assignment. Digital Certificate will be issued upon completion of all lessons, assessments, and upon final payment (where applicable). Non-refundable once paid. This program does not require approval under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005

Course Outline

Course Intro (Ch 1)
  • How to manage your time with Self Paced learning
  • Course Description
  • Outline

Understanding Cosmetics (Ch 2)

  • What are Cosmetics?
  • What is Cosmetic Science?
  • What Goes into a Cosmetic Product?
  • The importance of the identities and structures of chemical compounds
  • The importance of how chemical compounds are held together
  • The importance of how chemical compounds fall apart
  • Understanding Cosmetics Quiz

Cosmetic Careers (Ch 3)

  • Cosmetic Career Possibilities
  • Skill-Based Cosmetic Roles
  • Knowledge-Based Cosmetic Roles
  • What do Cosmetic Scientist and Formulators Do
  • Cosmetic Formulating-Resume Requirements
  • Cosmetic Formulating-Business Format

Science of Skincare (Ch 4)

  • Skin (Surface and Beneath the Surface)
  • Effects of UVA and UVB Radiation on Skin
  • How UV Rays Affect the Skin
  • SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
  • The Fitzpatrick Scale
  • Differences between Male and Female Skin
  • How Skin Absorbs Cosmetics
  • Cosmetics impact on Skin Appearance
  • Characterization of Skin Types and Conditions
  • pH of Skin
  • Free Radicals
  • Moisturization and Hydration
  • Effective Ingredients in Skin Moisturizers
  • What is an NMF?
  • Emulsions & Emulsifiers
  • Emulsion Compatibility
  • Suspension
  • Science of Skincare Quiz

Science of Colour Cosmetics (Ch 5)

  • How Colour Appears
  • Hue, Value and Chroma
  • Creating Colour Cosmetics
  • Pigments: Organic and Inorganic
  • Elements of Sensorial Properties
  • The Colour Wheel
  • Colour Additives
  • Creating Colour Using Light
  • Lighting
  • Using and Dispersing Pigments
  • The Importance of Cosmetic Formulas and Textures
  • Cosmetic B.F.F.
  • The Art of Colour Matching
  • Science of Colour Cosmetics Quiz

Science of Haircare (Ch 6)

  • The Evolutionary Biology of Hair
  • Hair Structure and Diversity
  • Hair Follicles
  • Sebum and the Scalp
  • Hair Damage
  • Hair Thinning and Hair Loss
  • Hair Greying
  • Shampoo Surfactants
  • Hair Conditioning Systems
  • Hair Styling
  • Hair Analysis
  • Science of Haircare Quiz

Science of Fragrance (Ch 7)

  • Odour Formation
  • Odour Recognition
  • Smell and Emotions
  • Creating and Masking Odours
  • The Creative Process of Developing a Fragrance
  • Why do Fragrances Change Over Time?
  • Fragrance Families
  • Science of Fragrance Quiz

Rheology-Product Textures and Form (Ch 8)

  • Interpreting Product Textures
  • The Importance of Rheology in Skincare
  • Product Thickeners
  • Cosmetic Oils
  • Rheology Quiz

Cosmetic Microbiology (Ch 9)

  • Microorganisms
  • Cosmetic Preservation
  • Cosmetic Microbiology Quiz

Ingredient Terms (Ch 10)

  • Acid
  • Alcohol
  • Anti-Caking Agents
  • Anti-Irritant
  • Antioxidants
  • Antimicrobials
  • Antiseptic
  • Aroma
  • Binder
  • Buffers
  • Catalysts
  • Chelating Agent
  • Cleanser
  • Clarifier
  • Colour
  • Colour Protectant
  • Conditioner
  • Delivery Systems
  • Disinfectant
  • Dispersants
  • Elastomers
  • Emollients
  • Emulsions and Emulsifiers
  • Esters
  • Exfoliants
  • Extenders
  • Filler
  • Film Former
  • Foaming Agent
  • Fragrance
  • Frost
  • Humectants
  • Hydroxy Acids
  • Inorganic
  • Natural Extracts
  • Organic
  • Peptides
  • pH, pH Adjuster
  • Pigment
  • Plasticizer
  • Polymer
  • Preservatives
  • Isotonic Agent
  • Matting Agent
  • Moisture Barrier
  • Moisturizer
  • Natural Extracts
  • Naturally-Derived
  • Oil adsorbent – Oil Dispersant – Sebum Dispersant
  • Opacifying Agent
  • Shelf Life
  • Skin Adhesion
  • Skin Conditioning Agent
  • Solubility
  • Solvent
  • Surfactants
  • Suspending Agent, Suspender
  • Synthetic
  • UV Filters
  • Thickener
  • Vitamins
  • Ingredients Quiz

Formulation Overview (Ch 11)

  • The Science of Formulating
  • Powder Products
  • Cream Products
  • Liquid Products
  • Organic Products
  • Hair Dyes and Colorants
  • Hypoallergenic Products
  • Cruelty-Free Products
  • Preservative-Free Products
  • “Dermatologist Recommended” Products
  • “Clinically Proven” Claims
  • “Patented Formula” Claims
  • pH Balanced Claims
  • Formulation Overview Quiz

Cosmetic Ingredients (Ch 12)

  • Major Ingredient types in Cosmetics and OTC
  • Cosmetic Ingredients Quiz

Product Testing and Stability (Ch 13)

  • Stability Testing
  • Stability Features
  • Microbiology Testing
  • PAO and Shelf Life
  • FDA Standards
  • Health Canada Standards
  • Government Links and Resources
  • Product Testing and Stability Quiz

Cosmetic Safety Standards (Ch 14)

  • FDA Standards
  • Health Canada Standards
  • Canada Government Links and Resources
  • Cosmetic Safety Standard Quiz

Laboratory Terminology (Ch 15)

  • What are the everyday terminologies used in the Cosmetic lab?
  • What are MSDS?
  • Ingredient Requirement
  • What are Laboratory Terminology Quiz

Laboratory Etiquette (Ch 16)

  • What is GLP?
  • GMP vs GLP
  • Lab Safety and Etiquette
  • Quality
  • Laboratory Etiquette Quiz

Assignments

  • Assignment 1 (Week 1)
  • Assignment 2 (Week 2)
  • Assignment 3 (Week 3)
  • Assignment 4 (Week 4)

Next Steps

  • You’re almost done!
  • Feedback

Is a Rewarding Career in Cosmetic Science Right For You? Get More Info…

If you’re interested in learning more about careers in Cosmetic Science and exploring whether GLOW College is right for you, fill out the form on this page to receive more information.

For immediate questions, call 905-453-9456.

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