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Johann W. Wiechers, Ph.D.

Words from Wiechers on 'Naturals'

In this installment of our Words from Wiechers series, the late Johann challenges us to question the concept of natural, as its meaning has become distorted.

Johann W. Wiechers, Ph.D.

Words from Wiechers: Without Penetration, No Delivery

This somewhat tongue-in-cheek edition of our "Words from Wiechers" series offers insight to improve the efficacy of actives.

Johann W. Wiechers, Ph.D.

Words from Wiechers: Getting it Right or Being Right

In this installment of our Words from Wiechers series, the authors discuss contradictions between the universality of cosmetic science and local and ethnic preferences for beauty.

Johann W. Wiechers, Ph.D.

Words from Wiechers: The Need for Fresh 'Blood'

In this edition of our Words from Wiechers series, the late author encourages the industry to bring outside ideas and people into the industry. While he wrote it in 2001, it remains relevant today.

Johann W. Wiechers, Ph.D.

Words from Wiechers on 'Shaken, Not Stirred' Cosmetics R&D

In this installment of our Words from Wiechers series, the late author encourages the industry to put more energy into products; i.e., "shaking, not stirring" them, for more innovative outcomes.

Johann W. Wiechers, Ph.D.

Words from Wiechers on 'Snake Oil Sellers'

Now more than ever, "snake oil sellers" have access to consumers, which may be, in part, why the industry is consistently under attack. In this first installment of our new "Words from Wiechers" series, column editor Tony O'Lenick shares lessons for the betterment of both formulas and the industry's overall credibility.

Johann W. Wiechers, Ph.D.

Words from Wiechers: Too Often, Too Hot and Too Long. . .

In this edition of Words from Wiechers, product developers are reminded that if consumers deplete natural moisturizing factor from their skin, e.g., via long, hot showers, they damage their barrier and increase the penetration of anything applied to skin; including mild cleansers.

Johann W. Wiechers, Ph.D.

Words from Wiechers: All That is Good is Bad

We need to keep in mind that we may be able to maintain an appearance of youth and even measure the difference in a chemical marker in two people; but we need to avoid the Dorian Gray effect.

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Cosmetics, Ketchup and Formula Simplicity

"I like it that ketchup still tastes the same to me as it did when [I was a child]. ... I feel reassured that many unnecessary ingredients have not been added. As a cosmetic scientist, while I appreciate when new ingredients improve products, I would feel better if we crafted them without unnecessary additions."