History of Women Cosmetic Scientists

While the world of science may not historically consist of women, it’s significantly influenced by them nonetheless. The various areas of scientific study such as biology, chemistry, physics, and more all have influential female figureheads. They have helped shape modern knowledge and practices in their relative fields and are especially true in the field of cosmetic science with women cosmetic scientists.  

What Is Cosmetic Science? 

Cosmetic scientists, also known as chemists, work directly with chemicals to formulate a variety of beauty products with different purposes, looks, and more. Cosmetic science refers to this formulation of raw materials to create said beauty products such as: 

• Lipstick, eyeshadow, and other makeup 
• Shampoo and conditioner 
• Hairspray  
• Body lotions  
• Face creams 
• Hair gel 
• & more! 

Famous Female Cosmetic Scientists 

While beauty products are used by everyone in one way or another, it’s women who tend to use the most, averaging at least 12 different beauty products each day. And while women can be any scientist they choose, it makes sense that women are the ones who have made historic breakthroughs in this field of chemistry. Here are just three of the most influential female cosmetic scientists in history: 

Florence E. Wall – Born in 1893, Wall was one of the first-ever woman chemists and more specifically cosmetic chemists. Her legacy boasts a list of accomplishments in the world of science. Here are just a few of the things she is known for: 

• Extensive studies in hair dyeing and helped found a postgraduation institute dedicated to the science of hair dyeing. 
• Created her own program dedicated to the science of cosmetology 

• She taught the first college courses about cosmetic science at New York University. 
• Member of the American Institute of Chemists. 

Hazel Bishop – Bishops influence began in the early 1900s during her pre-med program at Barnard College where she helped the founder of Almay Cosmetics identify allergens in his beauty products and remove them. She worked in various chemistry fields but dedicated most of her life to the experimentation of formulas for various beauty items. During her studies she… 

• Created and branded a long-lasting lipstick that turned into a successful company. 
• She invented other products such as foot spray, perfume, and more. 

Tapputi Belatekallim – Estimated to have lived in Mesopotamia in 12000 B.C., Tapputi Belatekallim is credited as being one of the first chemists and female chemists in the world. Archeologist’s findings suggest she was a royal-perfume maker. She didn’t just mix scents but used her extensive knowledge of chemistry to formulate fragrant salves for the king of Babylonia. 

Want to Learn More About Women Chemists? 

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