A cosmetic formulator, also called a cosmetic chemist, is a professional who brings out formulations for making cosmetic products. Some of the products that these chemists create are shampoo, hair dye, skin moisturizer, nail polish, and body wash. The area of cosmetic formulation provides lucrative career opportunities. For a formulator to be successful in their job, it is indispensable that they possess some specific skill sets. This write-up is going to throw light on some of these important skills.
- Firstly, it’s imperative that the chemist has thorough scientific knowledge about the physiology and texture of the skin. It is only then that they will be enabled to make the most appropriate products.
- Equally significant is the aspect that a formulator should always keep themselves updated, with respect to new cosmetic ingredients. They need to consistently research the market and gather accurate information. It is this information that helps them in making products actually useful to consumers.
- A formulator should be able to carry out several experiments using different chemicals. This is very much essential for both deciding about the ingredients and developing the correct cosmetic formulas. Additionally, they must be adept in equipment management and mathematics, as well. Having excellent spoken and written communication skills is also essential for these profiles. These competencies are pivotal for them inaptly conveying the varied technical facets to colleagues, higher officials, and consumers.
- We have to highlight the fact that a cosmetic formulator must possess top analytical skills, too. They must analyze the details that were gathered in the research, the capabilities of co-workers, and the resources available. Many other crucial factors are included in this analysis, too. Upon completion of this analysis, the chemist can come to a conclusion about the precise products to be made.
- The chemist needs to be knowledgeable about the varied nuances of cosmetic formulations. They must be able to decide about the exact substance to be added to a formulation, at any given point in time. As an example, there has to be no ambiguity in their minds while assessing whether an emulsifier or a preservative has to be mixed.
- It’s compulsory that these professionals have complete familiarity with all the corresponding industry standards and procedures. They are necessitated to develop the products, fully conforming to these stipulations.
- Here is one more aspect that invariably has to be inclusive in the skill sets of a formulator. They need to take care of the documentation part, leaving no margin for error. All things such as experiments, findings, and formulations tested must be properly documented.
- Sometimes, it so happens that a formulation fails to yield the result. In such instances, formulators must have the ability to quickly respond and initiate prompt remedial action.
- The significance of having patience can never be overstated, for a cosmetic formulator. It’s not often that they arrive at the right formulation with just one or two experiments. In fact, most of the time; the chemist has to do several experiments before they can see the desired outcome. In such scenarios, they should continue to be patient and go on striving. Here, losing patience will only make chemists take the wrong decisions that could gravely impact product quality.