Dermatouch
Formulation Scientist
Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India3-5 yrsPosted today
Skills
Analytical SkillsProblem SolvingAttention to DetailTeamwork
Job description
- Formulation Development & Optimization • Develop and optimize formulations for various skincare products, including emulsions (oil-in-water, water-in-oil), gels, serums, suspensions, anhydrous systems, and surfactant-based cleansers. • Select and balance emulsifiers, humectants, emollients, preservatives, and active ingredients based on stability and efficacy. • Conduct pre-formulation studies, including solubility analysis, pH optimization, and compatibility testing. • Perform forced degradation studies to predict formula stability under different conditions. • Optimize the Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB) of emulsions for improved consistency and texture. • Troubleshoot formulation issues such as viscosity drift, phase separation, air entrapment, and active ingredient degradation. 2. Analytical & Performance Testing • Stability & Compatibility Testing: • Perform accelerated stability testing at multiple temperatures (4°C, 25°C, 40°C, 45°C, and freeze-thaw cycles). • Assess phase separation, viscosity changes, pH drift, and microbial contamination over time. • Conduct oxidative stability testing (e.g., peroxide value analysis) for oil-based formulations. • Evaluate packaging compatibility for leaching, sorption, and migration of active ingredients. • Microbiological & Preservative Efficacy Testing: • Conduct Preservative Efficacy Testing (PET/Challenge Tests) as per USP , ISO 11930, or Ph. Eur. 5.1.3 standards. • Ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to prevent microbial contamination. • Rheological & Sensory Analysis: • Perform rheology measurements using viscometers and rheometers to determine shear-thinning or shear-thickening properties. • Analyze spreadability, adhesion, and absorption rates using texture analyzers. • Conduct panel testing to assess sensorial attributes such as skin feel, absorption rate, and after-feel effects. • Active Ingredient Efficacy Testing: • Measure penetration and bioavailability of active ingredients using Franz Diffusion Cell studies. • Conduct antioxidant capacity testing using assays like DPPH and ORAC. • Use High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) for ingredient quantification and validation. 3. Regulatory Compliance & Documentation • Ensure formulations comply with global cosmetic regulations (e.g., FDA, EU 1223/2009, ASEAN, Health Canada, ISO 22716). • Maintain detailed Product Information Files (PIF), including formulation composition, safety assessments, and ingredient justifications. • Develop Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and ensure compliance with REACH and Annex II of EU Cosmetic Regulations. • Work with toxicologists to conduct Human Repeat Insult Patch Tests (HRIPT) and in-vitro safety assessments. • Conduct Ingredient Regulatory Reviews to ensure compliance with allowable concentrations and restrictions. 4. Batch Manufacturing & Quality Control • Batch Manufacturing Record (BMR) Preparation: • Document raw material batch numbers, weighing logs, and process steps for each batch. • Ensure all batch formulations align with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP). • Record any deviations or formulation adjustments for traceability. • Master Formula Record (MFR) Creation: • Develop a standardized master formulation document detailing ingredient percentages, processing parameters, and critical control points. • Update MFR based on stability study outcomes, scale-up adjustments, and process validation. • Scale-Up & Manufacturing Support: • Translate lab-scale formulations into pilot and full-scale production. • Optimize mixing speeds, shear forces, temperature profiles, and homogenization techniques for reproducibility. • Collaborate with the manufacturing team to resolve production challenges, such as aeration, ingredient sedimentation, or batch-to-batch variation. • Conduct first production batch validation and establish acceptance criteria for quality control. 5. Research & Innovation • Stay updated on emerging skincare trends, novel ingredients, and formulation technologies. • Research new emulsification techniques, such as high-pressure homogenization, microfluidization, and ultrasonic emulsification. • Explore the use of biotechnological and green chemistry ingredients, including probiotics, bio-ferments, and plant-derived actives. • Conduct comparative benchmarking of competitor products to assess performance and innovation opportunities. • Collaborate with suppliers and R&D teams to source and validate new raw materials with enhanced functional properties. Required Skills & Qualifications Requirements Technical Skills: • Strong foundation in colloidal chemistry, emulsification science, and surfactant interactions. • Proficiency in formulation software such as Cosmetic Factory, ChemSketch, and Formulator Software. • Experience with analytical instrumentation, including: • HPLC, FTIR, GC-MS (for raw material and preservative analysis). • Spectrophotometry (for UV-blocking and antioxidant capacity testing). • Texture Analyzers & Rheometers (for viscoelastic behaviour evaluation). Educational & Experience Requirements: • Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or Chemical Engineering. • 3-5+ years of experience in cosmetic formulation, R&D, or quality control. • Experience working in GMP-certified or ISO 22716-compliant laboratories. Soft Skills: • Analytical problem-solving for troubleshooting formulation challenges. • Strong documentation and record-keeping skills for regulatory compliance. • Attention to detail in ingredient selection, formulation stability, and batch reproducibility. • Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, R&D, and manufacturing. Benefits A growing skincare brand with a focus on science-backed, dermatologist-led products A collaborative work culture where ideas are heard and teamwork is valued Opportunities to learn, take ownership, and grow with the company Exposure to how a skincare brand works, across teams and functions A supportive and inclusive workplace