MSc Cosmetic Science Students Trip to Croda International PLC

Croda International PLC stands as a global leader in the production of raw materials and active ingredients used in cosmetic products. L'Oréal Paris is among its numerous customers. Croda is known for developing cosmetic product formulations for leading brands like Boots No 7.

For the second consecutive year, students pursuing their MSc in Cosmetic Science had the privilege of visiting the head office of Croda International PLC, Cowick Hall in Snaith, Goole, East Yorkshire.

During their one-day visit, students obtained theoretical knowledge of skin care claims, had a tour of Croda’s high tech labs with demonstrations of the technology used to analyse skin, undertook a practical relating to sensory of two branded cosmetic products, and learned how to determine the SPF of sun care products. In the afternoon the students learned about sustainability and then they were split into smaller groups to problem solve sustainability issues relating to cosmetic formulations.

Chris Watts, Applications Team Leader, Beauty Care: 

“This year Croda welcomed back LJMU to our Cowick Hall site, further strengthening our desire to support the next generation of young scientists on their journey into the formulation industry. Topics this year focused on the design, planning and testing of skin care claims. With the students having the opportunity to see first hand how Croda continuously strives to develop new methods of analysis to support new claims and strengthen existing ones. The students were also able to get an in depth understanding of how Croda's sustainability throughout the lifecycle of a product runs through the core of our business and take part in some thought-provoking exercises, where they themselves could begin to contribute to a healthier planet.”

Dr Amanda Boddis Programme Leader, MSc Cosmetic Science:

“It Is always a great pleasure for our MSc Cosmetic Science students to visit the head office of Croda International PLC. The students learned so much about skin care claims and sustainability. In addition, the students gained practical experience of the techniques used to analyse skin, demonstrations of how to determine the SPF of sun care, and to determine the sensory profile of two cosmetic products during the tour of your high-tech laboratory space. As well as the cosmetic science content, the students learned about professionalism being in a corporate environment compared to the university environment and were able to obtain information about Croda Career opportunities.” 

Reflecting on their experience, students described the visit as "amazing," highlighting the immersive learning opportunities and hands-on experiences provided by Croda International PLC.

Clarissa Clark, Student MSc Cosmetic Science Programme:

“The trip was well organised, Croda had an efficient schedule which allowed us to experience a range of their activities such as skin damage testing, SPF analysis and formulation characterisation. The afternoon session on sustainability involved us being split into groups and brainstorming product optimisation based on our acquired knowledge of sustainability. The day at Croda allowed us to experience first-hand the internal workings of a cosmetics and personal care company, to understand the goals that they strive for and how they implement new approaches for the carbon-positive future of cosmetics.” 

Eagerly anticipating future collaborations, Dr. Boddis looks forward to arranging the next visit, “The students were very attentive throughout the day and relished the challenges set by the sustainability workshop. The students loved the experience.”

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