Hailey Kim received her bachelor of science degree in pharmaceutical sciences at the University of Toledo, where she majored in cosmetic science and formulation design, and minored in chemistry and business administration.
She now works for Henkel Beauty Care Hair Professional North America in Los Angeles. Here, she shares her current interests in the industry and future outlook.
What work are you conducting relevant to cosmetics R&D?
I am currently a technical associate at Henkel, and I conduct all the analytical claims substantiation testing for all the beauty brands. I utilize the testing equipment in our lab and work hand-in-hand with the brand teams to validate and develop product claims.
What do you like most about your work? What do you find most challenging?
I love working with my R&D team. After a big move across the country, they’ve become a second family to me and I always look forward to coming to work with them every day.
Juggling the amount of testing [required] for six different brands can sometimes be a challenge, especially when there are tight deadlines to meet.
"Discovering new areas or technologies in the cosmetics R&D world is an ongoing, exciting process that we get to experience every day."
Describe one of your biggest achievements relevant to cosmetics R&D.
This is my first job out of college, and to work for an incredible company is an achievement in itself for me. To start off testing for one brand as an intern, to six assorted brands is also a milestone.
What about the cosmetics and personal care products industries excites you?
I love how cosmetics and personal care is always evolving, with new trends emerging on the market. I am constantly learning new things, whether it's new products, testing methods, ingredients, and so on.
How would you like your role in the industry to evolve?
I love my current position and can see myself growing within the company I work for.
What areas or technologies do you think are untapped for cosmetics R&D?
I think discovering new areas or technologies in the cosmetics R&D world is an ongoing, exciting process that we get to experience every day. That is part of what makes my job fun!
How do you envision the cosmetics/personal care industry of the future?
With cosmetics constantly evolving, its hard to say what the industry could be like 10 years from now.
