Science of the Skin

Human skin is a very complex organ and the science of the skin is a fascinating area of study. Until around 40 years ago it had been thought of as an inactive body covering, an impermeable barrier. It now attracts much attention and scientific research. Scientists are unravelling the intricacies of skin physiology and identifying the chemical substances and their interaction within it. As a result, the cosmetic industry is trying to follow those discoveries by introducing new components to their formulations.

Advances in Skin Care

The skin is a complex organ comprising numerous specialised cells that support skin function. Understanding skin anatomy, physiology and various skin types is crucial to product performance as it allows for more effective formulation. New preparations are constantly developed in hope of better skin maintenance or reduction of ageing and other skin related problems. In fact, a large number of new ingredients have been incorporated into cosmetic products in the last 10 years. This is expected to continue at a fast pace. For example, discovery of the natural hyaluronic acid in the skin lead to its inclusion in the skin care products.

As the modern day pressure to look good goes through the roof the global cosmetic industry continues to expand rapidly. The search for ‘miracles in a jar’ continues. As the dietary habits and nutritional value of the food deteriorate, the need for ‘skin food’ keeps growing. Both the public and the product makers continue to search for most beneficial, most active products and ingredients.

Healthier Skin

Interestingly, skin has the poorest nutritional supply. Studies show that vital organs such as the brain and heart or liver ingest the marjority of nutrients . Also very few nutrients actually reach the skin. Luckily, unlike many other organs, skin nutrition can be enhanced directly through topical applications. Topical application of natural micronutrients (from vegetable oils, essential oils, herbs, etc.) can complement dietary consumption of food. Moreover,this leads to a stronger, healthier skin for the body.

Numerous scientific references can be found that indicate that our bodies absorb close to 60% of the topical products or materials with which the skin comes into contact directly into the bloodstream! As our understanding of skin function grows, so does the public’s demand to improve safety of the skin care products.

Healthy skin has the ability to respond to challenges that would otherwise undermine its structure and function. Understanding the skin makes it easier to formulate preparations that meet its needs. Furthermore, cosmetics that adversely affect the biological and physical functions of the skin often correspond to skin issues and less attractive appearance.

Course Details

This on-line course will cover the following relevant topics:

• Skin functions

• In depth anatomy and physiology of the skin

• Skin layers, in particular the following…
  Epidermis: keratynocytes, melanocytes, melanin, keratin, corneocytes, ceramides, etc
  Skin hydration – natural moisturizing factor (NMF), transepidermal water loss (TEWL), natural glycerine and hyaluronic acid
  Dermis – fibroblasts, collagen, elastin, mast cells, skin turgor, etc
  Derivative skin structures – sweat glands (apocrine and eccrine), sebaceous glands, acid mantle, skin pHSkin flora

• Skin colour and tannin behaviour

• Facial skin types (dry, normal, oily, combination) and sensitive skin

• Skin ageing – such as,intrinsic and extrinsic ageing, ageing factors, specific changes in skin layers, wrinkles, loss of volume and density, ageing prevention

• General skin care regimen elements

• Skin permeability and absorbency

• Allergy, irritation, sensitivity & cross-sensitisation, susceptibility to skin irritation; patch testing

• Racial skin differences

Assessment

This is an on-line course.
To complete this course you must complete a number of short tasks and then email them in for assessment.

Who Can Take This Course ?

If you are interested in, or are already formulating skin care products, then this Science of the Skin is definitely for you. Furthermore, you do not need any previous qualifications or knowledge of human anatomy and physiology. It will also be of great benefit if you are working with the skin, such as Facial Massage.

More Information

Course fees include:

• All on-line tuition
• An MSCM Certificate of Completion
• 5 cpd points

You will complete the course entirely online, from home. As a result, there is no classroom attendance.

You may also find the following courses very beneficial:-

• Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for Small Cosmetic Making Business Made Simple
• Diploma in the Development of Organic Phyto-Skincare Cosmetics
• Make Your Own Vegetarian Anti-ageing Hyaluronic Acid Serum
• Make Your Own SLS and SLES Free Hand Soap/Bodywash/Shampoo
• How to Correctly Make and Preserve Your Own Aloe Vera Gel
• How to Make a Natural and Pure Vegan Multipurpose Balm

To book on the course please use the following link

Science of the Skin

Course Fee – £50.00 +VAT = £60.00