Past Webinar
Advances in Cosmetic Science
This session marks the 50th anniversary of the successful cultivation of human keratinocytes, following the groundbreaking 1975 publication by James Rheinwald and Howard Green that introduced a method for serial cultivation of these cells in vitro. Their work transformed dermatology and regenerative medicine, opening the door to biomarker discovery through genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Since then, innovations such as 3D cell culture models, spatial biology that examines cell interactions within tissues, and artificial intelligence (AI) have further advanced insights gained from cell culture studies. In vitro screening, including high-throughput techniques, continues to be a valuable tool for biomarker discovery and the development of personalized skin care products.
The presentation highlights how in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo approaches are applied to evaluate the efficacy of a natural plant extract, Centaurea cyanus (cornflower), in addressing inflammation and itching. Biomarkers are used to identify pathways for reducing these conditions through immunological skin cells responsible for cellular signaling, including mRNA linked to gene expression. Findings from the in vitro and ex vivo work are supported by a clinical study involving volunteers with atopic skin, assessed by an expert grader. Together, these methods illustrate the current state of the art in efficacy testing.
The session is moderated by Perry Romanowski.
Presenter/s
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Dr. Howard Epstein, Susonity
Howard Epstein is Technical Director, Cosmetic Actives Innovation & Applications for Susonity. He was a scholar in residence at the University of Cincinnati department of Dermatology and received his Ph.D. from the Union Institute & University in Cincinnati, Ohio during that time. He has been in the cosmetics industry for many years since he began his career formulating cosmetics for Estee Lauder, Maybelline, Max Factor, Bausch & Lomb and Kao Brands. In addition to his interest in botanicals Howard previously served as editor of the Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Science and is a member of the International Academy of Dermatology. He is on the editorial board of the dermatological journal SKINmed representing the cosmetics industry to dermatologists. Howard has authored chapters in various cosmetic technology textbooks including various chapters in Harry’s Cosmeticology and holds eight patents. He received the Maison G. deNavarre Medial Award in 2020, the society’s highest honor supporting the best interests of the cosmetics and personal care industry.
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Perry Romanowski
Perry Romanowski joined the IFSCC Praesidium in 2019 after years of service with the Society of Cosmetic Chemists, including a stint as President. He is owner of ChemistsCorner.com, an online educational company devoted to educating scientists around the world about cosmetic chemistry. Thousands around the world have taken his online classes and more have watched his webinars. He brings his extensive expertise to his role as IFSCC Chair of Education. Perry graduated from DePaul University in Chicago, IL (USA) with a degree in chemistry and began his cosmetic chemistry career at Alberto Culver. He lives in Chicago with his wife and cats.
Date/s
Wednesday, 20 August 2025 /Thursday, 21 August 2025
