In January 2023, Spelman School launched an internet certificates program in beauty science, and in simply 4 phrases, curiosity skyrocketed; 150 purposes elevated to 750. With such an energized response, the following step grew to become abundantly clear, and now Spelman has introduced that will probably be increasing its STEM programming to supply a focus in cosmetic chemistry for chemistry majors and a minor in beauty science for non-chemistry majors.
The primary program of its sort for an HBCU (traditionally Black schools and universities), Spelman’s new beauty chemistry curriculum was introduced earlier this month and, in response to a press release, will give attention to product formulation and improvement. However in contrast to different beauty chemistry diploma packages, Spelman’s will not simply be about substances and molecular sciences. It should additionally handle and emphasize the wants and experiences of the Black magnificence shopper.
“This growth of our curriculum speaks to Spelman’s innovation and dedication to giving voice that empowers Black ladies,” Spelman provost Pamela Scott-Johnson mentioned in an announcement. “This system will likely be far-reaching and can help our college students and school in making a distinction in a subject that caters to Black ladies as customers, fueled by the scientific experience on this space.”
Leyte Winfield, professor of chemistry and biochemistry, echoed Scott-Johnson’s enthusiasm for the brand new program. “I’m equally excited that this endeavor positions us to supply a culturally related perspective that’s wanted within the dialog on Black hair and skincare and the event of cosmetics,” she mentioned.
Along with programs that present in-depth exploration of beauty formulations and laws, Spelman’s beauty chemistry curriculum will even provide courses similar to Black Hair Lab, which is able to give attention to textured hair and supply college students with a deeper understanding of surfactants and polymers, and Psychology of Magnificence, which is able to “discover how African American magnificence is used politically, socially, and culturally to undermine, marginalize, and separate Black ladies from the dominant cultural narrative and the psychological normal of magnificence.”
The announcement of this system has been well-received amongst distinguished members of the beauty chemistry neighborhood, similar to beauty chemist and licensed esthetician Esther Olu. “A beauty chemistry diploma program at an HBCU, particularly Spelman School, holds profound significance. Firstly, it addresses the long-standing lack of range inside the subject by offering alternatives for Black college students to excel and contribute to beauty science,” Olu tells Attract, including that she has typically been the one Black girl within the room in skilled settings. “Secondly, it might probably cater to the precise wants of communities of shade, providing tailor-made training on magnificence merchandise. Thirdly, empowering college students with the talents and information wanted to thrive within the magnificence trade fosters financial empowerment inside Black communities.”
