Episodes

From "low-impact formulas" to "carbon-neutral packaging," beauty brands love a sustainability claim—but what are those claims really based on? In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, we sit down with Evan Peters, founder of Fairglo, to unpack the promise and pitfalls of Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) in the cosmetics industry. We go beyond the buzzwords to explore how system boundaries, data gaps, and marketing spin can shape—and sometimes distort—what LCAs actually reveal about a produc...

On this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, we’re going deep with Victoria Fu—former L'Oréal chemist and one half of the dynamic duo behind Chemist Confessions. Known for blending scientific rigor with internet-savvy wit, Victoria shares how she and co-founder Gloria Lu built a platform that busts skincare myths, translates chemistry into everyday language, and formulates products that actually deliver.From navigating the hype cycles of “clean beauty” to defending misunderstood ingredients and si...

In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer Cookson speaks with retired chemistry professor and visionary educator Dr. Colleen Kelley, creator of Kids Chemical Solutions. Colleen shares how her comic books and playful curriculum are transforming how children—and adults—learn chemistry by treating it as a language. From teaching molecular literacy as early as age eight to shaping more informed consumers, Colleen makes the case that chemistry fluency is not only possible at a young ag...

In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer Cookson sits down with Mercedes Amans, Head of Product at ClearSTEM, to explore the evolving science and strategy behind formulating products that are both acne-safe and anti-aging. Mercedes shares how ClearSTEM challenges outdated definitions of comedogenicity, leverages data from real consumers, and uses biotech innovation to fill a major gap in skincare. From ingredient myth-busting to the limitations of current testing methods, this ep...

In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer Cookson sits down with beauty trend strategist Marta Ponzone, founder of Terra Innovation Studio. Marta unpacks the power of micro trends and how they differ from fleeting fads. She shares how brands—big and small—can detect, validate, and act on emerging signals to stay ahead in a saturated market. They dive deep into the evolving role of AI, the influence of Asian beauty formats, and how brands can balance innovation with brand integrity...

n this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer Cookson brings together a panel of experts in cosmetic science to explore the fine line between truth and fluff in beauty product claims. From “deep nourishment” to “gene activation,” the group dissects real marketing statements, evaluating whether they’re scientifically supported or simply slick branding. With sharp insights, playful banter, and regulatory know-how, this episode uncovers what really goes into making a claim and what consum...

In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer sits down with Eva Sandnes, a seasoned natural product development consultant with over 20 years of experience in cosmetic formulation. They dive deep into the complex journey of transforming a beauty concept into a market-ready product, exploring the challenges of scale-up, regulatory compliance, and ingredient selection. Eva shares her extensive expertise in emulsion chemistry, product stability, and the critical considerations brands mu...

In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer sits down with Nurit Koniak who shares her extensive experience in beauty and wellness branding, discussing how design, storytelling, and cultural context intersect to create compelling brand identities. She explores the evolution of branding in the digital age, the impact of geopolitical shifts on design, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a rapidly changing marketplace. Key Takeaways: Branding is an emotional bri...

In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer sits down with Dr. John Warner, a pioneer of green chemistry, to explore how sustainable chemistry is shaping the beauty industry. They discuss the misconceptions around “natural” and “synthetic” ingredients, the urgent need for safer formulations, and the role of green chemistry in reducing toxicity without compromising performance. With over 360 patents and decades of innovation, John shares powerful insights into how brands and formulat...

In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer sits down with Alexander Kwapis, VP of Innovation, Design, and Engineering at Fusion Packaging, to explore the fascinating world of cosmetic packaging. They discuss the critical relationship between formula and packaging, how sustainability is shaping the industry, and the innovative techniques used to create unique, functional, and recyclable packaging. From material compatibility to molecular recycling, this episode is a must-listen for ...

In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, host Jennifer is joined by Dr. Barak Dror, co-founder and CTO of Mycelium Biomaterials, to explore the future of fermentation in cosmetics. They discuss the science behind liquid and solid-state fermentation, the role of fungi-derived ingredients, and how these sustainable methods are revolutionizing the beauty industry. From tackling microplastic pollution to creating innovative ingredients with improved biocompatibility, this conversation highlights t...

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 wha...

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 conver...

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 Significanc...

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 insight...

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 aestheti...

In this episode, Jennifer hosts Dr. Kristin Neumann, a microbiologist and co-founder of My Microbiome. Kristin shares her journey from microbiological research to founding an educational platform dedicated to understanding the human microbiome. They dive deep into the role of the skin microbiome, its importance in maintaining skin health, and the science behind microbiome-friendly certification in cosmetics. Kristin sheds light on the challenges and myths surrounding skin microbiome products, ex...

In this episode, host Jennifer Cookson welcomes Dr. Elsa Jungman, a pioneer in microbiome-friendly skincare and founder of HelloBiome. Together, they explore the fascinating science behind the skin’s microbiome, its impact on overall health, and its role in skincare. Dr. Jungman shares insights from her journey, including her early struggles with skin sensitivity, which led her to a deep understanding of microbiome science. They discuss practical skincare tips, the science behind microbiome-safe...

In this episode, host Jennifer Cookson speaks with Valerie George, a seasoned cosmetic chemist, who shares her expertise in the world of haircare and hair dyes. Valerie takes us through her journey from studying biochemistry to becoming an expert in hair dye chemistry. Together, they explore the science behind different types of hair dyes, the challenges involved in formulating effective products, and why the outcomes of hair coloring can vary so much. From discussing the chemistry of permanent ...

In this episode, host Jennifer Cookson talks with Avril Love, a legal expert in regulatory compliance for the beauty industry at K&L Gates. They discuss claim substantiation, regulatory oversight, and risk management for cosmetic brands. Avril provides valuable insights on how companies can navigate FDA and FTC regulations, avoid litigation, and manage marketing risks while ensuring their claims are truthful and well-substantiated. Takeaways: Claims and Substantiation: Brands must subs...

In this episode, host Jennifer Cookson, an R&D expert in the beauty industry, talks with Christina Ross, Director of Science at Credo Beauty, about clean beauty standards, product safety, and sustainability in the cosmetics industry. Christina shares insights from her experience overseeing the Credo Clean Standard and offers a deep dive into industry challenges, particularly around ingredient safety, transparency, and the environmental impact of cosmetics. Key Takeaways: • Clean Beau...

In this episode of Demystifying Cosmetics, we dive deep into the science of skincare with Dr. Julian Sass, a renowned expert in personal care Research & Development. With a PhD in Biomathematics and Statistics, Dr. Sass has built a global reputation for breaking down complex cosmetic formulations and advocating for consumer education. We explore his groundbreaking sunscreen database, which has empowered people—especially those with darker skin tones—to make informed choices about sun protection....