26th IFSCC Congress to focus on ‘Innovation and Responsibility’

The International Federation of Cosmetics Scientists (IFSCC) is gearing up for its annual congress event, which is taking place from 20-23 September 2010 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The Congress, which is in its 26th year, aims to bring together a ‘scientific and technical meeting’ for the international cosmetics world.

This year, the IFSCC has decided to focus on the ‘fundamental pillars’ of innovation and responsibility. This refers to an exploration of the latest developments and insights into formulations in cosmetics science, as well as an in-depth analysis of ways in which the cosmetics industry can commit to long term concerns about the environment.

Four main hot topics

The event consists of four days of oral presentations and speeches given by industry experts from around the world. This year, the IFSCC has stated that there will be 20 speakers each day, with sixty oral presentations and four key-note speeches in total.

There are four main topics for discussion at the event. The first is called ‘Cosmetics: Physical, Chemical and Biological’ and aims to profile new research and innovations in formulations, ‘in particular where the delivery is controlled by specially-designed means, or where new actives have been found’.

The second is called ‘Well-being and beauty cosmetics’, referring to an exploration of the cosmetics formulations and sensorial response, immune system and neurotransmitters. The third, ‘Protective strategies’, aims to assess new techniques and innovations in sun protection, hair care and anti-ageing treatments.

The final topic reflects the IFSCC focus on responsibility, looking at ‘Society and Cosmetics’. This includes a discussion of environmentally-friendly cosmetics products and new methods which can replace animal testing in the cosmetics industry.

Five Prizes

An International Evaluating Committee, consisting of scientists, researchers and professionals will select the papers to be delivered at the event this year. The IFSCC states that ‘high level’ key-note speakers have already been chosen.

Amongst others, Professor Robert Y Lochead from Mississippi, USA, will deliver a speech on ‘Innovative Formulation Strategies to meet the cosmetic needs of an Ecologically Aware Global Community’.

Four awards will be given to the best papers delivered at the Congress event throughout the four days and another will be awarded to the best poster. The IFSCC stated that abstract submissions had ‘exceeded expectations’ this year.