Olay

Cosmetic Formulation Science

Dr. Rolanda Wilkerson
Anne von Koschembahr

Instructors: Dr. Rolanda Wilkerson

Access provided by SCB Academy

14,234 already enrolled

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

128 reviews

Beginner level

Recommended experience

Flexible schedule
3 weeks at 10 hours a week
Learn at your own pace
96%
Most learners liked this course
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

128 reviews

Beginner level

Recommended experience

Flexible schedule
3 weeks at 10 hours a week
Learn at your own pace
96%
Most learners liked this course

What you'll learn

  • Develop skills in selecting and using cosmetic raw materials

  • Understand the essentials of cosmetic formulation and laboratory safety

  • Learn effective documentation techniques for cosmetic science.

  • Acquire practical knowledge in writing and processing cosmetic formulas

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Assessments

30 assignments

Taught in English

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

 logos of Petrobras, TATA, Danone, Capgemini, P&G and L'Oreal

Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the Introduction to Cosmetic Science and Ingredients Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
  • Learn new concepts from industry experts
  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
  • Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
  • Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 5 modules in this course

Welcome to Cosmetic Formulation Science. This is the second course in the P&G Cosmetic Science Specialization program. In this module, you explore the fundamentals of cosmetic formulation with a specific focus on cosmetic raw materials and their role in product development. You examine how raw materials contribute to different cosmetic product functions, how they are classified by formulation purpose, and how compatibility, stability, and performance influence selection decisions. Through guided learning, discussions, and applied activities, you begin to develop the analytical skills needed to evaluate raw material choices in real formulation contexts. This module establishes the essential foundation for deeper study of formulation chemistry, laboratory practice, and product design in the modules that follow. Let’s begin!

What's included

8 videos9 readings4 assignments2 discussion prompts

Welcome to the Raw Materials module. In this module, you focus on the ingredient systems that shape cosmetic formulation, including surfactants, emulsifiers, preservatives, rheology modifiers, and functional additives. You examine how molecular structure, charge, and compatibility influence cleansing, foaming, stability, texture, and overall product performance. You also use the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) system to guide emulsifier selection and consider preservation approaches based on the mechanism of action, pH, and microbial risk. Through guided learning and applied analysis, you begin to justify raw material choices in relation to product claims, safety, and consumer use. Let's begin!

What's included

25 videos7 readings7 assignments

Welcome to the Working in the Lab module. In this module, you focus on safe, compliant, and effective laboratory practice in cosmetic formulation. You learn how to interpret laboratory safety designations, select and use appropriate personal protective equipment, and apply best practices that protect product integrity and regulatory compliance. You also examine the correct use of processing and analytical equipment, as well as accurate documentation methods that support traceability and reproducibility. Through guided learning and applied practice, you develop the practical judgment needed to work responsibly in a cosmetic laboratory environment. Let’s begin!

What's included

13 videos7 readings6 assignments

Welcome to the Formulating Products module. In this module, you focus on the core principles used to design and document effective skincare formulations. You learn how to interpret and apply INCI, trade, and IUPAC names, calculate and convert weight percentages, and organize ingredient addition to support stability and efficient processing. You also compare common classes of skincare formulations based on function, texture, and target skin needs. Finally, you examine how Certificates of Analysis and product specifications are used to confirm raw material quality and formulation performance. Together, these skills support accurate, stable, and well-documented cosmetic product development. Let's begin !

What's included

9 videos5 readings6 assignments

Welcome to Advanced Cosmetic Formulation Practices, the final module in this course. In this module, you will apply formulation knowledge to real-world cosmetic product development. You will analyze product briefs, interpret laboratory test results, and evaluate performance against defined specifications and compliance requirements. You will investigate formulation challenges, optimize ingredient selection and processing conditions, and justify evidence-based design decisions. The module concludes with professional documentation and communication of formulation outcomes, preparing you to translate laboratory work into clear technical and regulatory reporting. By the end of this module, you will be able to integrate scientific reasoning, testing data, and formulation strategy to support effective cosmetic product development. Let’s begin!

What's included

8 videos12 readings7 assignments

Earn a career certificate

Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.

Instructors

Instructor ratings
(40 ratings)
Dr. Rolanda Wilkerson
4 Courses 44,403 learners
Anne von Koschembahr
Olay
3 Courses 41,669 learners

Offered by

Olay

Why people choose Coursera for their career

Felipe M.

Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."

Jennifer J.

Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."

Larry W.

Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."

Chaitanya A.

"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."

Learner reviews

  • 5 stars

    81.25%

  • 4 stars

    14.84%

  • 3 stars

    1.56%

  • 2 stars

    0.78%

  • 1 star

    1.56%

Showing 3 of 128

NH

Reviewed on Jul 25, 2024

SB

Reviewed on Sep 24, 2024

MH

Reviewed on Jun 15, 2024

Explore more from Health