The event, organised by the UK’s Society for Cosmetic Chemists (SCS), opens on Sunday May 17th with the ‘Sunday Soapbox’.
Attendees and speakers alike can apply for a five minute slot in which to air their views on a cosmetic topic of their choice which will then be opened to the floor for discussion.
According to event organiser Tony Gough, it is a great ice breaker and interested parties should inform the SCS of the chosen topic.
‘Lively’ debate on anti-ageing
A number of controversial topics will come under discussion during the two day meeting including whether anti-ageing products do, or can in the future, reverse the signs of ageing as they claim.
“A lively session is expected,” said Gough.
“There are likely to be opposing views on about how much good science evidence really exists and whether going under the knife or laser is really a better option, particularly for severe skin problems such as acne scarring,” he said.
The benefits and shortfalls of natural ingredients will also come under the spotlight. On Tuesday morning the SCS president Judi Beerling will give an overview of the natural and organic sector before debate moves on to natural preserving systems.
In addition, Monday’s afternoon session will look at the future of natural fragrances, speakers include IFRA’s scientific director Dr Matthias Vey, and Tony Burfield from Cropwatch UK.
A short session focusing on green chemistry will take place on the Tuesday afternoon, before the event is brought to a close.
Shaping the future of the industry
Although the symposium is organised by the UK SCS, according to the organisers the topics are global and attendees from outside the UK are welcome.
Gough is hoping to attract R&D staff, formulators and product developers, as well as perfumers and anyone working in the natural sector.
“Finally, it will be of interest to anyone whole likes to see or take part in lively debates and would like, in some small way, to help shape the future of the cosmetics industry,” he added.