ATLANTA — Spelman College is celebrating the expansion of its cosmetic science program.
The college stated in a release that it's growing its STEM programming to include a concentration in cosmetic chemistry for chemistry majors and a minor in cosmetic science for those studying other subjects.
According to the college, this is the first program of its kind at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), and it is scheduled to be offered in the Fall 2024 semester.
The program's goal is to promote careers in the beauty industry, enhance the technical knowledge of students seeking to work in the industry or pursue advanced studies in cosmetics, as well as ensure a gendered and racial perspective in product formulation and development, the release said.
The institution also stated that research has shown Black women spent more than $7.4 billion on cosmetics and personal care products in 2022 but that Black beauty brands make up 2.5% of the market. Because of this, the college is working to alter the market's trajectory and help bring a focus on ensuring beauty products are developed with people of color in mind.
Spelman Provost Dr. Pamela Scott-Johnson said that expanding the curriculum helps showcase the college's commitment to empowering Black women.
"The program will be far-reaching and will support our students and faculty in making a difference in a field that caters to Black women as consumers, fueled by the scientific expertise in this area," Scott-Johnson stated. "We are thrilled to continue this evolution of creating new academic offerings that address industry demands."
The cosmetic chemistry curriculum focuses on the molecular sciences related to product formulation and development. It was launched in January 2023 and was initially created as a certificate offering in the college's online program. However, since then, it has grown from 150 to 750 applications for its fourth term. The college said this showcases student interest in cosmetic sciences and a desire for the expanded undergraduate program.
Spelman Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Dr. Michelle Gaines said the new venture is believed to open the doors to new research opportunities and collaborations with leaders in the beauty industry.
"My research is rooted in studying the surface chemical properties of curly hair. There are many students who are very interested in working on this project with me, and I'm looking forward to growing this research within the new program," Gaines said.
Spelman will also be offering a one-week Cosmetic Science Summer Law intensive that will hone in on the fundamental cosmetic formulations. The college said the event will be held on June 2-8 and will bring together Black female product developers, formulators and researchers for seminars and panels. It will be available to online and in-person students and participants from other HBCUs based on availability. Additional information will be posted on the college's website in the coming weeks.