Like all things we consume, even the cosmetic products have to be designed, developed, tested, created, and marketed to be sold to the public. Cosmetics don't just appear out of the sky and make people look better. They are designed by qualified cosmetic chemist professionals striving for new advancements for safer, healthier cosmetics. Cosmetics must be tested and retested for potential dangers that can cause skin irritations and infections.
Chemists, in general, work on the ground level researching, developing, and testing different chemical compounds. Cosmetic chemists should obtain at least a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering. There are different types of chemists; thus choosing a field that will appeal to someone interested in cosmetic chemists is very important. For example, there are organic chemists, material chemists, analytical chemists, and physical/theoretical chemists, all of who specialize in the different stages of chemistry.
Organic chemists study the properties of compounds of carbon that are organic. Material chemists analyze existing products to improve on new ones. Analytical chemists determine the basic structure of different types of compounds by identifying and examining these compounds. By doing so, they will determine which chemicals work best with one another to produce the best types of cosmetics which are safe for our skin and also for the environment. Physical/theoretical chemists study theoretical properties of matters such as atom molecules.
The educational requirements for each type of chemists will vary in their field or interest. The American Chemical Society offers education in approved baccalaureate degrees in many related chemistry fields. The Society of Cosmetic Chemists is an organization which continually helps in the advancement of cosmetic sciences. They also offer courses in cosmetic science education. The International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists offers education and training programs internationally in 45 countries.
Overall cosmetic chemistry is expected to grow over the next decade. There will always be a demand because people will always want products that would constantly improve their skin for more healthy and youthful appearances. People not only want their cosmetics to aid them in looking better but also improve the basic condition of their skin.
Interestingly, cosmetic chemists may also work in the field of cosmetic sales. Having knowledge of basic cosmetics structure and why they work will give those interested in sales positions an advantage. Many cosmetic companies are always looking for new innovative technologies to be able to compete with other cosmetic companies. Cosmetic companies want to be able to attract customers with the latest and best cosmetic products that are safe in every way possible.
Earnings for chemists in general are between $45,000 and $90,000 depending on their experience, profession, and education. Though tough economic times can affect most professions, some will remain less affected such as cosmetic chemists. While layoffs can occur in any job and no one is immune to them, skin healthcare remains a strong business throughout the economic downturn. Technological advances in cosmetic science provide those who seek a cosmetic career vast opportunities.
There are many stages in the field of cosmetics, from development to the final stage of selling and marketing the product. While developing and selling require different skill sets, it is not impossible for a cosmetic chemist to become involved in marketing or promotion.
A cosmetic chemist is a very important career because it is on the ground floor of an industry which makes billions of dollars annually and is used by the majority of the population in some way, shape, or form. Even the toughest guy walking on the street has used some form of skin cream at one point in his life. Cosmetic chemists will always have a place because there is always room for advancement to improve cosmetic materials, making them safer for our skin and safer for the environment when disposed off. The cosmetic product doesn't end when someone finishes the bottle, there are still remnants of the cosmetic, and it is important they don't harm the environment.
