The Demystifying Cosmetics podcast, hosted by industry veteran and beauty enthusiast Jennifer Cookson, creates a space for open and insightful conversations abo...
The Business of Beauty: Transparency, Sustainability and Success with Ed Schack
In this episode ofDemystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer chats with Ed Schack, founder of EES Cosmetic Ingredients, to discuss the art and science of building a successful cosmetic ingredient business. Ed shares his inspiring journey from being a history major to a leader in the cosmetic industry, offering insights into overcoming challenges, fostering relationships, and prioritizing people in every aspect of business. Whether you're an entrepreneur, an industry veteran, or just curious about what it takes to thrive in cosmetics, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable advice.Key Takeaways:Overcoming Fear and Starting a Business:Making the decision to begin is often the hardest part. Stay positive, and envision success.Build a business that can eventually run itself to ensure sustainability and balance.People Over Product:Prioritize relationships with customers, suppliers, and employees.Transparency, loyalty, and kindness are key to long-term success.Sustainability and Social Responsibility:Partner with suppliers and manufacturers who treat workers ethically and prioritize sustainability.Aligning business values with giving back strengthens relationships and culture.Adapting in a Changing Industry:Innovate through hybrid communication models like pre-sending sample kits for remote presentations.Focus on natural and sustainable ingredients to meet evolving customer demands.
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52:32
From Lab to Launch: Navigating the Beauty Manufacturing Process with Amy Hart
In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer sits down with Amy Hart, Chief Innovation Officer at Elevation Labs, to dive into the world of cosmetic contract manufacturing. From navigating the complexities of product development to overcoming challenges in scalability, regulatory compliance, and sustainability, Amy offers invaluable insights for brands looking to partner with contract manufacturers. Whether you're launching your first product or scaling a successful line, this conversation is packed with practical advice and industry secrets.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding Contract Manufacturing:
• Contract manufacturers (CMs) offer services ranging from R&D and formula development to full-scale production.
• Transparency, quality, and compatibility are key factors when selecting a manufacturing partner.
The Product Development Journey:
• From ideation to pilot production, each step requires collaboration between brands and manufacturers.
• Stability testing, raw material procurement, and packaging trials are critical for success.
Navigating Challenges:
• Raw material shortages, lead times, and scalability are persistent challenges for manufacturers and brands alike.
• Effective communication and forecasting can help mitigate delays and improve efficiency.
Sustainability and Innovation:
• The industry is shifting toward sustainable, safe, and efficacious products.
• Trends like waterless formulations and clean beauty continue to dominate consumer preferences.
Advice for Brands:
• Be granular in your feedback during formulation stages.
• Build strong partnerships with manufacturers and stay engaged throughout the process.
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44:41
From Safety to Claims: How MoCRA is Shaping the Beauty Industry With Nyree Bekarian-Mack
In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer sits down with regulatory expert and clean beauty advocate Nyree Bekarian-Mack to discuss the modernization of cosmetic regulations under MoCRA (Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act) and its impact on the beauty industry. From safety substantiation to navigating regulatory gaps, Nyree provides a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities for brands adapting to this new regulatory landscape.
Key Takeaways:
The Significance of MoCRA:
MoCRA marks the biggest regulatory shift for cosmetics in the U.S. since 1938, focusing on transparency, safety, and FDA authority.
Key changes include mandatory facility registration, product listing, adverse event reporting, and recall authority.
Gaps in U.S. Regulations:
Unlike the EU, the U.S. lacks prescriptive safety testing requirements, leaving brands to navigate vague guidelines.
The need for third-party validation and stronger oversight on raw materials and claims substantiation remains critical.
Challenges for Indie Brands:
Compliance with MoCRA can be expensive and complex for small brands, requiring proactive safety testing, GMP adherence, and detailed labeling.
Actionable Recommendations:
Work with FDA-licensed facilities.
Ensure robust safety and claims substantiation.
Monitor adverse events and stay informed about emerging regulations.
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48:39
The Science of Sunscreen: SPF, UV Rays, and Skincare Myths with Mark Chandler
In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer Cookson sits down with Mark Chandler, president of ACT Solutions Corp, to dive deep into the science and innovation behind sunscreen formulation. Mark, a 40-year industry veteran and expert in SPF technology, explains the differences between UVA, UVB, and UVC rays, how sun protection factor (SPF) works, and the future of sunscreen technology. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast or industry professional, this episode is packed with insights about sun protection and anti-aging strategies.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding UV Rays: Learn how UVA, UVB, and UVC rays affect skin health and contribute to aging, sunburn, and DNA damage.
SPF Explained: Discover what SPF really means, how it’s tested, and why applying sunscreen correctly is crucial for effectiveness.
Inorganic vs. Organic Sunscreens: Mark discusses the differences in how mineral-based and synthetic sunscreens work, and why both are critical to broad-spectrum protection.
Emerging Innovations: Expect advances in sunscreen aesthetics, pollution protection, and hybrid organic-inorganic formulations.
Practical Tips: Get advice on choosing daily sun protection, applying sunscreen properly, and understanding how to balance aesthetics and efficacy.
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1:01:19
Sustainable Packaging Innovations: Insiya Jafferjee on Reducing Plastic in Cosmetics
In this episode, Jennifer interviews Insiya Jafferjee, the founder and CEO of Shellworks, a startup focused on eliminating plastic pollution through innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in sustainable packaging for the cosmetics industry, the materials Shellworks is pioneering, and the broader implications of consumer behavior and regulatory changes. Insiya shares insights on how brands can embrace sustainability while maintaining aesthetics and performance, paving the way for a more eco-friendly future.
Key Takeaways:
Sustainable Packaging Challenges: Packaging in cosmetics often involves multiple materials, making recycling difficult.
Innovative Materials: Shellworks’ material, Vivama, is made by microorganisms and is compostable in natural environments.
Consumer Behavior: Educating consumers on sustainability is crucial but requires collaboration between brands and regulators.
Regulatory Advances: Global treaties like the UN Plastics Pollution Treaty aim to standardize sustainable practices.
Future Trends: Expect increased adoption of refillable solutions, material innovation, and cohesive regulations in the coming years.
Explore this enlightening conversation about the intersection of sustainability, innovation, and cosmetics with Insiya Jafferjee.
The Demystifying Cosmetics podcast, hosted by industry veteran and beauty enthusiast Jennifer Cookson, creates a space for open and insightful conversations about the ever-evolving cosmetics world. At Tagra, we connect chemists, formulators, product developers, and marketers to discuss the latest trends, innovations, and strategies shaping the future of beauty. Join us as we break down technical barriers and uncover the stories and insights driving the next generation of cosmetics.
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