From Stress to Strength: The Science and Promise of Plant-Based Adaptogens in Skin Protection …Hang Ma
Did you know that Rhodiola rosea thrives in the icy Tibetan Plateau, enduring freezing temperatures and high levels of UV radiation and still manages to bloom? Or that gotu kola, a swamp-dwelling herb revered in Ayurvedic medicine, accelerates wound healing and stimulates collagen synthesis in the skin?
These statements aren’t just botanical trivia These are adaptogenic plants nature’s survivalists that are now capturing the attention of cosmetic chemists, der matologists, and for mulators for their stress-defying, skinsupportive abilities
As consumer awareness deepens around holistic wellness, skin resilience, and stress-induced aging, adaptogens have emerged as one of the most promising classes of multifunctional botanical actives Their roots lie in ancient medicine, but their mechanisms are now being uncovered through moder n science and they could be game-changers in next-generation skincare.
Adaptogens: A Natural Response to Moder n Skin Stress
Coined in the 1940s, the term “adaptogen” describes substances that increase the body’s non-specific resistance to stress while nor malizing p h y s i o l o g
adaptogens must meet three criteria:2
• Be non-toxic at nor mal doses
• Help the body resist a broad range of stressors
• Exhibit nor malizing effects regardless of the direction of change
While traditionally used in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and other folk medicine, adaptogens are now entering the cosmeceutical arena From calming inflammation to protecting against environmental stressors, their relevance in skincare is only growing particularly as urban living, blue light exposure, and psychological stress take a toll on skin health
Adaptogenic plants are not random botanicals with marketing buzz they share distinct biochemical traits that equip them to survive in extreme conditions. These properties also translate into skin-relevant benefits when properly extracted and for mulated
Common Chemical Classes in Adaptogenic Extracts3
• Polyphenols: Flavonoids such as quercetin from onion that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
• Triterpenoids/saponins: Found in ginseng and gotu kola (Centella asiatica); support collagen synthesis and barrier repair.
• Lignans: Compounds like secoisolariciresinol (from flaxseeds) help modulate cellular response to oxidative stress
• W ithanolides: Steroidal lactones from ashwagandha (W ithania somnifera) with cortisol-lowering and anti-inflammatory activity (continued on Page 7)
BOARD & COMMITTEE
Chair John Carola chair@nyscc.org
Chair-Elect
Anushka Nadkar ni chair-elect@nyscc org
Treasurer Diane Dabkowski treasurer@nyscc org
Secretary Mythili Nori secretary@nyscc.org
Advisor Amber Evans advisor@nyscc org
Program Alexis Piterski program@nyscc.org
At Home Live Series
Susanna Fer nandes
Susanna Fer nandes@tri-k com
By-Laws and Membership
Cathy Piterski cpiterski@essentialingredients com
Communications
Dejour Waite
Revathi Nair socialmedia@nyscc.org
House Chair
Afam Okoro house@nyscc org
Special Events
Johanna Gigliotti johanna e gigliotti@gmail com
Cosmetiscope Editor
Roger Mcmullen roger mcmullen@fdu.edu
Cosmetiscope Advertising
Bret Clark rbclark@ashland com
Letter from the Chair …John
Without a doubt, time truly flies when you enjoy what you are doing. It's hard to believe I'm already halfway through my tenure as Chair What a year it has been so far, and nothing captured that better than the incredible energy at Suppliers’ Day in June!
The 47th Annual Suppliers’ Day was our largest and most globally diverse yet, drawing over 11,500 attendees and 675 exhibitors from 74 countries The expansive show floor on the third level of the Javits Center buzzed with innovation and excitement W ith more than 100 hours of scientific education and five advanced tracks curated by our Scientific Committee, our mission to be the Nexus of Science and Beauty was on full display We also saw a record tur nout at the Future Chemists Workshop, mentorship forums, and career fair investing in the next generation of cosmetic chemists like never before.
New this year was the Catalyst Club Breakfast, designed to foster networking and opportunity for small businesses, and the first-ever joint CEW & NYSCC Membership Mixer, which bridged our professional communities in a meaningful way. This event also served as the launchpad for the CEW Innovator Award: Recognizing Women in Science and Design a powerful new initiative honoring the contributions of women chemists and for mulators who are shaping the future of our industry
Looking ahead, the summer brings a more relaxed, yet still engaging, NYSCC calendar Our popular Golf Outing and Fishing Trip retur n in July and August. In September, our Culinary Event mixes business with a bit of delicious fun. I encourage everyone to take advantage of these casual settings to build meaningful relationships beyond the lab and office walls
This fall, we retur n to our robust educational programming with in-depth sessions on Sensory, Rheology, and Demystifying Biotechnology Each program is thoughtfully designed to deliver both cutting-edge scientific insight and practical takeaways our members can apply immediately.
You’ll also find the NYSCC active across the industry this fall with a presence at the Florida Sunscreen Symposium, Califor nia Chapter Suppliers’ Day, CEW Beauty Expo & Awards Luncheon, and of course, IFSCC Congress in Cannes further affir ming our growing influence on the global stage
Nominations are now being accepted for the CEW Innovator Awards: Recognizing Women in Science and Design The deadline for submission is August 8, 2025 For more infor mation, see page 16 of this issue or visit the CEW website (https://cew.org/awards-honors/the-innovatorawards-recognizing-women-in-science-design/)
There’s still much more to achieve in 2025 Whether by joining a committee or stepping into a leadership role, your involvement will help shape the future of the NYSCC. We thrive because of our active, passionate community and your voice and talents truly matter
Enjoy the summer, and I hope to see you soon whether on the water, the golf course, or at one of our dynamic fall events!
War m regards,
P.S. Relive the energy and excitement from this year ’ s Suppliers’ Day! Read the recap in this issue and watch the video at: https://nyscc org/suppliers-day/.
NYSCC Suppliers’ Day 2025 Wraps with Record Attendance, Global Reach,
and Unmatched
Innovation
Ingredient and For mulation Trade Show and Conference Solidifies Its Position as the Premier Event for Beauty and Personal Care Product Development
New York, New York, June 2025 –
The New York Society of Cosmetic Chemists (NYSCC) proudly announces the resounding success of Suppliers’ Day 2025, held June 3rd and 4th at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City This year ’ s event marked a major milestone, drawing more than 11,500 attendees and 675 exhibitors from 74 countries The dynamic show floor set a new standard for engagement, innovation, and global collaboration
Hosted on the expansive third level of the Javits Center, the exhibit hall provided an inspiring and seamless experience praised for its energy, organization, and opportunities to connect. W ith a beautifully designed layout and vibrant activations, Suppliers’ Day delivered an unmatched platfor m for showcasing cutting-edge ingredients, technologies, and solutions shaping the future of beauty and personal care.
“This was the largest and most globally diverse Suppliers’ Day ever, ” said John Carola, Chair of NYSCC “The tremendous tur nout and overwhelmingly positive feedback reinforce our mission to be the nexus of science and beauty where innovation, education, and business intersect.”
Highlights from the Show Included:
• The Inspiration Hive, curated by BEAUTYSTREAMS, featured future-forward exhibitors including Ashland, Croda Beauty, and Lubrizol, and hosted the popular Innovations from the Inspiration Hive panel.
• Main Stage Presentations included a fireside keynote with Stacey House, SVP at Coty’s AGILE Beauty, and a thought-provoking discussion with L’Oréal’s Dominic Akerlee and Ying Chen on biotech and augmented beauty.
• Over 100 hours of education, with five advanced tracks curated by the NYSCC’s Scientific Committee on Der mabeauty, Neuroaesthetics, the Microbiome, Biotechnology, and Hair and Scalp Innovations
• Networking and business-building opportunities included the Catalyst Club Breakfast for small businesses, the first-ever joint CEW & NYSCC Membership Mixer, and the (continued on Page 4)
announcement of CEW’s Innovator Award: Recognizing Women in Science and Design.
• Special Programs included the For mulators’ Tour: The Wellbeing of Water, Hot Topics from the Main Stage, Technical Poster Presentations, and For mulation Forum.
• The 9th Annual Future Chemists Workshop saw a record tur nout of 140 students from 65 colleges and universities across the U S and Canada Complementing this were a Mentorship Forum, University Row, and a Career Fair all designed to foster knowledge-sharing and spotlight next-generation talent
The INDIE 360° Pavilion spotlighted emerging brands including a Latina Beauty capsule and introduced the inaugural Beauty Founder LAB Prize, awarded to Kayura Effects, alongside the People’s Choice Award given to Smitha Rao, Founder of Pareva Beauty, for her clinically crafted skincare line NYSCC Suppliers’ Day also hosted the annual Industry Awards Night on June 3rd at the Classic Car Club NYC, where CEW Supplier’s Beauty Award finalists were revealed, and the vibrant NYSCC community came together in celebration. The 2025 CEW Finalists are:
• AECOTHICK GKL by AE Chemie
• ALGAKTIV Exometics G by Algaktiv
• Collapeptyl biofunctional by Ashland, Inc
• DandErase by Givaudan
• LIFTILIENCE by Silab
• Natrineo CR8 by Croda, Inc.
• Sphingo’HAIR Drypure by Croda, Inc
• Uplevity e-Lift peptide by Lubrizol Life Science
The Ingredient Maverick Awards, selected by Sci-Comm influencers who walked the exhibit floor, honored standout ingredient innovations:
• Ginger King
DSM – Etherwell Hair
BASF – Vitaguard
DKSH – Oceamide
• Manessa Lor mejuste
Probiotical – SB01
Acme Hardesty – Lyftalize
Provital – Pureblome
Looking Ahead
• Ramon Pagan
Mibelle – Ameliosense
Hallstar – Hallsens' DIAS
P2 – Cirtopol DE-4
• Jane Tsui
Cosroma – CDBH 004X
Mibelle – PhytoCellTec Exosomes
Momentive – HARMONIE NatuVel Gel
As NYSCC continues to elevate Suppliers’ Day year afte year, the 2025 edition solidified its role as the premier globa stage for cosmetic science and innovation. The next Suppliers Day will take place May 19–20, 2026, and promises even more opportunities for learning, connection, and industry partnership
n For more infor mation, visit the NYSCC website (www.nyscc.org)
n For 2026 Suppliers’ Day exhibitor and sponsorship inquiries, e-mail: suppliersday@nyscc.org.
n Media Contact: Annie Scully, 201-310-9252, press@nyscc.org
WWW.PROTAMEEN.COM Supplier
2025 NYSCC Events Calendar
• For updated NYSCC information, visit us on the web at: www.nyscc.org
• For National SCC information: www.scconline.org
July 28 NYSCC Golf Outing • Crystal Springs, Hamburg, NJ
August 9 NYSCC Fishing Trip • Atlantic Highlands, NJ
September 10 Sensory Event • Venetian, Garfield, NJ
September 24 NYSCC Culinary Event • The Legacy Castle, Pompton Plains, NJ
October 16 Rheology Event • Jay Conference Bryant Park, New York, NY
November 12 Demystifying Biotechnology: 360 Degree Look from Ingredient to Brand • Liberty House, NJ
• Adaptogenic polysaccharides: Immunomodulatory and hydrating (e g , from mushrooms and roots).
These phytochemicals often act in synergistic complexes, rather than in isolation, making wholeplant extracts or standardized fractions more valuable than isolated actives in some for mulations
Mechanisms of Action: How Adaptogens Work in the Skin
What makes adaptogens exciting from a for mulation standpoint is their multi-pathway activity. Unlike single-function actives, adaptogens contribute to skin resilience through various mechanisms 3,4
Stress Mitigation: Some adaptogens (like ashwagandha) help reduce skin damage from cortisol spikes, which are linked to barrier dysfunction, inflammation, and premature aging. This aligns with a growing focus on neurocosmetics products that target the brain-skin axis 5
Barrier Repair and Hydration: Triterpenoids in gotu kola and saponins in ginseng support the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans, while also tightening intercellular junctions to reduce transepider mal water loss 6
Antioxidant and Anti-Pollution: Adaptogens protect skin cells from reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by UV radiation, infrared radiation, and pollution. Rhodiola rosea has been shown to increase cellular oxygenation, a key factor in maintaining energy metabolism and healthy skin tone 7
Anti-Inflammatory Activity: By modulating inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-alpha, IL-6), adaptogens help calm sensitive and reactive skin, making them ideal for post-procedure, acne-prone, or rosacea-like conditions 8
Clinically Proven Botanicals – Adaptogens for Photoaged Skin: Although very few clinical studies are available, some early evidence suggests a clinical effect of an adaptogen for mulation on skin aging A 12-week clinical study tested a new serum made with plant-based adaptogens to see how well it could improve visible signs of aging in the skin 9 The trial included 53 adults aged 45–65 with varying skin tones and levels of sun damage The serum, called MYS, featured a unique blend of adaptogens including ginseng, tur meric, magnolia bark, and echinacea along with skin-friendly antioxidants, hydrators like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, and moisture-boosting squalane. Used twice a day alongside a basic skincare routine, the serum delivered impressive results by Week 12 Participants saw visible reduction in redness, dullness, pore size, and uneven pigmentation, along with a 38% decrease in oiliness and a 39% overall boost in skin quality Nearly all participants felt more confident, and many said they used less makeup after the study. Additionally, preclinical experiments also showed that the serum helped activate genes linked to the skin’s natural stress defenses, such as suggesting it supports skin resilience at a deeper, molecular level Overall, the study highlights adaptogens as clinically backed, multitasking ingredients with real potential in future skincare products
(continued on Page 8)
From Stress to Strength
Further more, a follow up study showed how MYS helps skin respond to stress and maintain balance 8 Using lab-grown human skin, researchers found that the serum boosted key genes that protect against UV damage, support the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and slow signs of aging One antioxidant gene increased by nearly 300%, while a gene linked to cell aging dropped significantly, demonstrating the serum ’ s potential to strengthen skin at the cellular level The results suggest that adaptogens may offer a powerful, natural way to support healthier, more resilient skin
Limitations and Future Directions
Despite their growing popularity, adaptogens face several challenges in skincare for mulation One major hurdle is standardization variation in plant species, harvesting times, and extraction methods often result in inconsistent active compounds, making efficacy difficult to guarantee 10 Also, since adaptogens have historically been used in traditional medicine, i.e. in the supplement industry, their solubility in cosmetic for mulation is not optimized and further extraction of the raw botanicals is often needed, causing a shortage of these ingredients in the supply chain for topical products Additionally, the dosage and delivery methods for topical applications remain under-researched, with many formulations lacking evidence-based concentrations. As discussed early, most current research stems from in vitro studies or oral supplementation, limiting our understanding of how adaptogens behave when applied directly to the skin There’s also regulatory ambiguity, as adaptogens lack for mal classification or dosage guidelines within cosmetic frameworks, complicating compliance and marketing claims
That said, the field is ripe with opportunity. Clinical trials specifically designed to evaluate topical adaptogens on inflammation, pigmentation, barrier repair, and wrinkle reduction are greatly needed to validate efficacy Another promising avenue is exploring their influence on the skin microbiome, as emerging data suggests they may help maintain microbial balance and resilience The intersection of adaptogens and neurocosmetics targeting stress-induced skin issues through the skin-brain axis is an exciting frontier. Finally, biotechnological innovations, such as precision fer mentation and plant cell culture, offer sustainable and scalable methods to produce consistent, high-purity adaptogenic compounds for next-generation skincare products.
Conclusion – Adaptogens as Next-Gen Actives
In a world where both consumers and skin are under constant stress, adaptogens offer a sciencebacked, holistic, and highly marketable approach to skincare. For formulators and product developers, they represent a bridge between traditional wisdom and cutting-edge cosmeceuticals with applications ranging from anti-aging and hydration to barrier support and anti-pollution As science advances and standardization improves, adaptogens are poised to become cornerstone actives in future skincare innovations not just as “trendy” botanicals, but as powerful tools for building truly resilient skin
References
1. Todorova V, Ivanov K, Delattre C, Nalbantova V, Karcheva-Bahchevanska D, Ivanova S. Plant adaptogens History and future perspectives Nutrients 2021; 13(8):2861
https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13082861.
2 Panossian A, W ikman G, Wagner H Plant adaptogens III Earlier and more recent aspects and concepts on their mode of action Phytomed 1999; 6(4):287-300
https://doi.org/10.1016/S0944-7113(99)80023-3
3 Esmaealzadeh N, Iranpanah A, Sarris J, Rahimi R A literature review of the studies concer ning selected plant-derived adaptogens and their general function in body with a focus on animal studies Phytomed 2022; 105:154354 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154354
4. Panossian A. Understanding adaptogenic activity: specificity of the phar macological action of adaptogens and other phytochemicals Ann New York Acad Sci 2017; 1401(1):49-64
https://doi.org/10.1111/nyas.13399
5. Cavagnino A, Breton L, Ruaux C, Grossgold C, Levoy S, Abdayem R, Roumiguiere R, Cheilian S, Bouchara A, Baraibar MA, et al Adaptogen technology for skin resilience benefits Cosmetics 2023; 10(6):155 https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics10060155
6. W itkowska K, Paczkowska-Walendowska M, Garbiec E, Cielecka-Piontek J. Topical application of Centella asiatica in wound healing: recent insights into mechanisms and clinical efficacy Phar maceut. 2024; 16(10):1252. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16101252.
7 Liu X, Chen C, Li L, Guo M, He Y, Meng H, Dong Y, Xiao P, Yi F Bibliometric study of adaptogens in der matology: phar macophylogeny, phytochemistry, and phar macological mechanisms Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:341-361 https://doi.org/10.2147/DDDT.S395256
8. Draelos Z, Grimes P, Watchmaker J, Nelson D. Gene expression analysis of a topical serum comprised of plant-based adaptogens developed to support homeostasis and skin quality J Clin Aesthet Der matol. 2024; 17(2):43-46. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10911264/
9 Draelos Z, Grimes P, Watchmaker J, Nelson D A multi-center trial evaluating a serum comprised of plant-based adaptogens targeting skin quality. J Clin Aesthet Der matol. 2024; 17(2):15-19 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10911267/
10. Pawar V, Shivakumar H. A current status of adaptogens: natural remedy to stress. Asian Pac J Trop Dis 2012; 2(Suppl 1):S480-S490 https://doi.org/10.1016/S2222-1808(12)60207-2
About the Author
Hang Ma, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biomedical and Phar maceutical Sciences at the College of Phar macy of the University of Rhode Island (URI) Dr Ma is the Head of the Research Unit for Nutraceutical and Cosmeceutical Applications (RUNCA) at URI. He has over 20 years of research experience in natural product chemistry His group, the Bioactive Botanical Research Laboratory at URI, studies the phytochemical and biological investigations of natural products from medicinal plants and functional foods for their nutraceutical and cosmeceutical applications Dr Ma is the author of over 110 original peerreviewed research articles and the inventor of an inter national patent on novel botanical extracts for cosmetics He holds a Master’s and Doctoral degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences from URI His membership activities include the Society of Cosmetic Chemists and the Chinese American Cosmetic Professional Association He is also a member of the NYSCC Scientific Committee
NYSCC Annual Golf Outing
Monday, July 28, 2025
Crystal Springs Resort
1 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg, NJ
• Registration: 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
• Shotgun Start: 1:00 p.m.
• Cocktail Hour: 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. • Dinner: 6:00 p.m.
Tickets
• SCC Member Ticket – $220/person (includes box lunch, 18-hole scramble golf, dinner, cocktail hour, and prizes).
• Non-SCC Member Ticket – $235/person (includes box lunch, 18-hole scramble golf, dinner, cocktail hour, and prizes).
• Beginner Golf Clinic - $150/person (includes box lunch, golf clinic, dinner, cocktail hour, and prizes).
• Dinner Attendee Only: $75/person.
To register, visit the Events section of the NYSCC website (www.nyscc.org)
2025 NYSCC Internship Program
We are excited to introduce the participants of the 2nd annual NYSCC Inter nship Program! The program offers STEM-major students the invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in cosmetic science by sponsoring summer inter nships with ingredient suppliers, contract manufacturers, and finished goods companies in multiple market segments.
This year the NYSCC Inter nship Program nearly tripled in number of applicants, more than doubled in number of final interns, and expanded into fragrance, sun care, and process engineering The program will also be incorporating programming around soft skills and professional development, led by NYSCC Inter nship Program alumnus Hector Gonzalez
We express a very special thank you to the many companies that are hosting interns this summer! We truly appreciate their support in helping to prepare the next generation of cosmetic industry professionals CSR program
Nia Givens Spelman College Chemistry – Cosmetic Chemistry
Keyla Ballena Cooper Union Chemical Engineering
Mya Ross North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University Chemistry
Delaney Brooks Spelman College Chemistry – Cosmetic Chemistry
Carolina Quinonez University of Souther n Califor nia Chemical Engineering
Yui Koyama Stevens Institute of Technology Chemical Engineering
Bella Wagner University of Califor nia –Santa Barbara Chemistry and Portuguese
Aubriana Yabut Rutgers University –New Brunswick Biotechnology
Valeria Lopez Ramapo College of New Jersey Chemistry
Isabel Catu Fashion Institute of Technology Cosmetics and Fragrance Marketing
(Yuna) Jeon University of Washington Business, Materials Science and Engineering
Natalie Gil-Arcos Monmouth University Medical Laboratory Science
Victoria Dunleavy The Pennsylvania State University Chemistry
Corinn Richards Smith College Chemistry
Kyle Uchneat University of Massachusetts – Amherst Chemistry
Hanna Cosgrove University of W isconsin – Madison Chemical and Biological Engineering
Victoria Wozunik Rowan University Chemistry
Iremide Adejayan North Carolina State University Polymer and Color Chemistry
Younker The Pennsylvania State University Chemistry
Reilly Sekyere Hampton University Chemistry
Kathryn DeSoye Binghamton University Chemistry
Jaeyun
Zachary
NYSCC Annual Fish Outing
Mi-Jo Fishing Charter, Atlantic Highlands, NJ August 9, 2025
Sailing time: The boat leaves at 7:00 a.m. sharp.
Please make sure you are on the boat by 6:45 a m NO EXCEPTIONS!
Retur n time: 2:00 p.m.
Fish type: Fluke, sea bass (mostly bottom fishing).
What to bring: Sunscreen, hat, shades, and great spirit.
What is included?
Food (breakfast, lunch, and snacks).
Drinks (water, soda and beer). Please do not bring coolers or your own drinks Everything is supplied
Fishing gear: Rod/Reel/Tackle and fish filleting is included
Fare:
$110 for members and $120 for non-members
Please visit the Events section of the NYSCC website (www.nyscc.org). There will be no on-site registration.
Mi-Jo Fishing Charter
Captain Mike Scardigno
75’ Party Cruise and Fishing Charter Boat, Atlantic Highlands Municipal Harbor
2 Simon Lake Drive, Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey
NYSCC History Project ...Steve Herman NYSCC History Project ...Steve Herman
NYSCC History – 1979 Part I
While recently researching the NYSCC archives, I came across a letter written by David Steinberg, 1979 NYSCC Chapter Chair
SOCIETY OF COSMETIC CHEMISTS NEW YORK CHAPTER
Dear For mer Chapter Chair man,
Please mark down November 7, 1979, on your calendar! On that date we will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the New York Chapter You, as a past Chair man, will be invited back as our special guest to again be honored for your leadership for the Chapter
I am writing to you now to reserve the date, and also, I am asking you to write me a letter. In this letter, I would like you to tell me the highlights of your ter m in office These should include scientific, special events, and amusing anecdotes. I will put these all together for the history of our Chapter.
I am looking forward to this celebration and hope you can attend and help me with the history
Sincerely,
David C. Steinberg, Chapter Chair man, 1979
The responses came from the following, with their year as Chair man in parentheses: Warren B Dennis (1957) • Henry F Maso (1964) • Mitchel L Schlossman (1966) Maurice L Rosenthal (1968) • Stephen G Hoch (1969) • Joseph H Kratochvil (1970) Paul Thau (1971) • George Pollack (1972) • Graham Barker (1973) • Ber nard Foss (1974) Gerald S. Goldberg (1976) • Morton Pader (1977) • Sharon Reich (1978).
The most historically important letter was from Warren Dennis, since it contains an eye-witness account of the origins of the Chapter
“Perhaps it would be more helpful to you if I recall the beginnings of the New York Chapter, on the assumption that I am the earliest Chair man around who participated in those early days. Mike Stanton passed away many years ago I have no knowledge that Bill Lambert is still with us, but it seems highly unlikely.
The impetus to set up the New York Chapter grew out of a prevalent complaint in certain circles that the Society, for all its good work at its National Meeting, three times a year, was not doing enough to meet the needs of the individual Cosmetic Chemist in his local situation This was especially acute in the New York area where such a large concentration of the industry was centered
Late in the summer of 1954 I heard that Michael J. Stanton, just Mike to most of us, was exploring the feasibility of organizing a local Chapter of the Society modeled on his expertise as a member of the Chicago Chapter I called him and offered to help and at the first meeting of the Ad Hoc Committee I found myself the pro tem Secretary There were about 15 society members present who reached agreement on the need to set up a New York Chapter of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists and to petition the Board of Directors for recognition as such
A Bylaws Committee was set up and reported at a subsequent meeting with a set of bylaws modeled on those of the Chicago Chapter.”
Warren Dennis
Chapter Chair man, 1957
Mr Dennis goes on to describe the well-known meeting of September 29, 1954, and recognition by the National Board of Directors We will look at some comments from the other early Chair men in a future issue of Cosmetiscope
THE INNOVATOR AWARDS:
Recognizing Women in Science and Design
ANNOUNCING: The CEW Innovator Awards celebrating 25 visionary women making significant contributions to the science of beauty These awards highlight beauty innovators creating groundbreaking advancements in ingredients, sustainability, packaging, technology, and for mulas that elevate industry standards From biotech-driven ingredients to refillable, waste-free packaging, and high-perfor mance clean beauty for mulas (from brands and suppliers) our picks will demonstrate exceptional creativity, efficacy, and environmental responsibility The initiative supports CEW’s mission to spotlight the women behind the breakthroughs, who merge science with innovation across a multitude of disciplines – proving that beauty is cutting-edge, from its inception
AWARD CATEGORIES
1. For mulation and Cosmetic Chemistry
• Skin Care
• Hair Care
• Makeup
2. Ingredient Innovation
• Biotech/green chemistry
• Clean actives
• Sensory or functional ingredient advancements
3 Sustainable Packaging and Materials
• Recyclable/compostable packaging
• Zero-waste systems
• Refill innovations
4. Product Development and R&D Leadership
• Multi-functional innovation
• Scalable manufacturing processes
• Tech-integrated formulation
5. Emerging Innovators
• Rising stars under 35
• First-time founders
Academic-to-industry trailblazers
6. Industry Mentor
• A woman who has shown excellence in team leadership, mentorship, or STEM advocacy.
Award Criteria and Evaluations
Nominations may be reflective of various disciplines in beauty (R&D, Product Development, Chemists, Formulators, Packaging Designers, etc.).
All nominees must meet the following criteria:
• A female executive.
• Has made a positive impact on their company and the broader industry: culturally, financially, creatively.
• History of empowering other women, a plus
Nominees will be evaluated based on:
1 Scientific innovation
2. Industry impact
3 Sustainability and ethics
4 Leadership and mentorship
5. Professional achievement
W inners will be celebrated at a cocktail reception taking place November 19, 2025
NYSCC Outreach Committee
The NYSCC Outreach Committee celebrated a great first half of 2025! This committee was for med at the beginning of 2024 with the mission of facilitating access and inclusion to the NYSCC by infor ming and presenting on the activities and opportunities that the organization offers and supports, with the goal of engaging students and young professionals in our programs by signing them up to help in their career development and personal goals.
Tri-State Engineering Expo
White Plains High School, White Plains, NY March 30, 2025
New York Hall of Science, Queens, NY May 23, 2025
Between January and June 2025, the outreach committee, comprised of seven volunteer members, worked to create digital content (with the Social Media Committee) to distribute through our social media channels, and presented in person at schools’ fair events and conferences, often hosted by the American Chemical Society During these events, the outreach committee members were able to connect with students and professors, infor ming them about cosmetic science, our organization, and the opportunities available to them after joining By creating a special QR code, we signed up almost 200 students in the organization during this first semester!
We have more plans after the Summer and are already discussing with almost ten colleges in New York and New Jersey to present both online and in person
We are currently looking for volunteers to help grow our activities in the future. Being part of the outreach committee is fun, a great way to network with peer students and young professionals outside of our industry, and a great motivation to support their possible career in the cosmetic industry
Please contact Giorgio Dell’Acqua (giorgio dellacqua@hotmail.com) if you are interested in joining the NYSCC Outreach Committee
STEM Career Expo
Sav e th e Date ...
NYSCC Sensory Event
September 10th
3:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Venetian,
Garfield, New Jersey
For registration and more infor mation, visit the Events section of the NYSCC website (www.nyscc.org).
NYSCC Employment Secti
Are you looking for a candidate that loves the personal care i enjoys the thrill of designing a make-up product or sh perhaps you are seeking someone with expertise in raw Maybe you need some help around the lab and could use a tena who wants to start their career in the personal care space
The NYSCC Chapter supports you and your business with FRE postings to our webpage Contactemploymentadmin@nyscc.org to have passionate candidates apply to your roles. Recent postings include companies such as Lucas Meyer Cosmetics, Kenvue, Olaplex, and Symrise for roles in Sales, Marketing, For mulations, and Regulatory
Below are some positions in the personal care industry that are currently posted on the NYSCC website. For a full description of the jobs, visit https://nyscc.org/jobs.
• Sales Account Manager – Personal Care – Momentive – Pearl River, NY
• Senior For mulation Science – Prestige Consumer Healthcare – Lynchburg, VA
• Sales Manager – Biocogent – Long Island, NY (remote)
• Product Development Manager – Wella – Morris Plains, NJ
Call for Papers
The Cosmetiscope editorial committee invites all interested parties to submit feature technical articles for publication in the NYSCC monthly newsletter Authors of feature articles are eligible to win the prestigious NYSCC Literature Award ($1,000) for the best front-page article published during the calendar year Authors also receive $200 reimbursement to attend a theatrical perfor mance of their choice. Writing an article for your peers is a very rewarding experience, both personally and professionally, and will ensure your place in NYSCC history You may choose whatever topic you feel would be interesting to fellow colleagues in our industry We also welcome any other types of commentaries or articles that may be published in the Career Corner, Technical Tidbit section, or as a Letter to the Editor.
Please send correspondence to: roger mcmullen@fdu.edu
