Research in Cosmetic Valley

By: Eric Perrier, LVMH, et al.

Posted: February 19, 2010

(La version Française est disponible ici./The French version is available here.)

by Eric Perrier, LVMH:

How is Research & Development (R&D) conducted within the Cosmetic Valley?
R&D is essential within Cosmetic Valley. It combines actors from large industrial groups with research teams from universities and smaller companies. This unique cluster plays a fundamental role in product innovation in the field of perfumes and cosmetics. The interaction between different research-oriented partners makes the development of technologies and products possible.

For example, in partnership with a small clinical research unit, LVMH Recherche uses a LASER confocal microscope to evaluate in vivo the antiaging effects of new skin care creams. We also work on molecular modeling with a biotechnological services company to better characterize the biological properties of natural active ingredients.

What is the overall importance of R&D to the cosmetics industry?
The cosmetics industry is one of innovation with a rapid turnover of products on the consumer market. Only a structured approach to R&D allows for the development of new cosmetic products that answer market needs while integrating the latest technological discoveries. In order to maintain good reactivity, as compared with international competitors (mainly in Japan, China, Korea and the United States), it is crucial to invest in research projects on an intermediate and long-term basis. LVMH Recherche, for instance, employs 250 researchers. Every year, we develop more than 650 products and publish more than 50 scientific papers or communications; in addition, we have a portfolio of more than 200 patents.