Prospectus Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation

- THIRD EDITION -
COURSE PROSPECTUS
Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation Prospectus 2
CONTENTS
1. WELCOME 4
2. WHY STUDY WITH THE SCHOOL OF NATURAL SKINCARE? 6
3. OUR ETHOS 8
4. WHO IS THE DIPLOMA IN NATURAL SKINCARE FORMULATION FOR? 10
5. WHY LEARN TO FORMULATE YOUR OWN PRODUCTS? 12
6. MEET OUR TUTORS 14
7. STUDYING WITH US 17
8. SUPPORT 19
9. WHAT PRODUCTS ARE COVERED IN THE DIPLOMA IN NATURAL

SKINCARE FORMULATION? 24
10. SUMMARY OF COURSE DETAILS 26

11. COURSE CURRICULUM 27

MODULE 1: YOUR VALUES, BRAND AND CREATING UNIQUE PRODUCTS 27
MODULE 2: SKINCARE PRODUCT DESIGN PROCESS 29
MODULE 3: CREATING PROFESSIONAL COSMETIC FORMULATIONS 30
MODULE 4: SKIN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY: FORMULATING FOR DIFFERENT SKIN TYPES 32
MODULE 5: COSMETIC INGREDIENTS AND RAW MATERIALS 34
MODULE 6: LAB SKILLS, EQUIPMENT AND PACKAGING 39
MODULE 7: PRESERVING SKINCARE PRODUCTS NATURALLY 41
MODULE 8: FORMULATING OILS, OIL-BASED SERUMS AND SELF-EMULSIFYING OILS 42
MODULE 9: FORMULATING BUTTERS AND BALMS 44
MODULE 10: FORMULATING SPA-STYLE SOAKS, SCRUBS AND POLISHES 45
MODULE 11: FORMULATING TONERS, SPRITZERS, MISTS AND GELS 46
MODULE 12: THE SCIENCE OF EMULSIFICATION 47
MODULE 13: FORMULATING CREAMS AND LOTIONS 48
MODULE 14: COSMETIC REGULATIONS AND BUSINESS ESSENTIALS 50
12. BONUS CLASSES 51

1. FORMULATING WITH AHAs AND BHAs 51
2. THE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING BOOK: A-Z OF NATURAL COSMETIC FORMULATION 51
3. FORMULATING FACE AND BODY WASHES WITH NATURAL SURFACTANTS 51
13. ENROLL NOW 53
14. CAREERS 54
15. STUDENT BRANDS 55
16. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 61
17. OUR ACCREDITATIONS 63
18. OUR AWARDS 65

WELCOME
The School of Natural Skincare is a multi-award winning online natural cosmetic formulation
school. Our accredited, multimedia online courses cover every aspect of skincare and haircare
formulation and are studied from home, wherever our students are in the world, via our online
classroom, and with tutor and community support every step of the way.
Founded in 2010 by Directors Gail and Gareth Després, to date the School has trained over 15,000
students in 130 countries to make their own natural and organic skincare and haircare products
and launch successful businesses.
The School’s team of expert tutors include cosmetic scientists, cosmetic formulators,
aromatherapists, beauty business experts and safety assessors, and all are passionate about
helping you create beautiful natural cosmetics and thriving businesses.
The School’s fabulous formulations and fun, creative classes have been featured by the BBC and
glossy magazines like Green Parent, Positive News, Spirit & Destiny, and Country Homes & Interiors.
FOUNDED IN 2010 BY DIRECTORS GAIL AND

GARETH DESPRÉS, TO DATE THE SCHOOL HAS
TRAINED OVER 12,000 STUDENTS IN 130 COUNTRIES
WHY STUDY WITH THE

SCHOOL OF NATURAL SKINCARE?
We are the world’s premier online natural skincare school,

and we’re here to help you create high-performance, natural
and organic beauty products.
Study with us for your own enjoyment and learning, or to

establish a successful beauty business. Our graduates have
launched beauty brands in every corner of the globe and inspire
others to live in radiance, health and happiness – naturally!
Learn cosmetic formulation from professional formulators.

Our tutors are experts in their field with vast amounts
of experience of formulating cosmetics in professional
laboratories, for small and large cosmetic brands.
Study tried-and-tested formulations. We’ll share with you real

laboratory test reports for formulations we’ve submitted for
professional tests such as Preservative Efficacy Tests.
Inclusivity and diversity are important to us. Whatever your skin

tone, type or concern you’ll learn how to formulate skincare
customized to your needs.
Our vibrant student community, supported by our team of

professional formulators, will be with you every step of the way,
sharing inspiration, challenges and knowledge as you move
through your journey with us.
On-demand learning – enroll as soon as you are ready,

no need to wait for set enrollment periods.
We are also a multi-award winning school. Our awards include

Best Natural Beauty Educators 2020, Best Online Organic
Skincare Formulations School 2020 and Online Natural Skincare
Formulations School of the Year 2021.
The School of Natural Skincare

is the perfect place to get a deep
understanding of how to formulate
and create great products for personal
or commercial use around the world.
The part I love the most about creating

my own products is knowing exactly
what I put inside. Natural ingredients
are the game changers in today’s world.
Rooslana Zodek, USA

Scentifique
ON-DEMAND LEARNING – ENROLL AS

SOON AS YOU ARE READY, NO NEED TO
WAIT FOR SET ENROLLMENT PERIODS
OUR ETHOS
Here at the School of Natural Skincare we are passionate

about using business as a force for good and expressing
and reinforcing the values we hold dear through our work.
Supporting and being supported by the natural world are
central to why we do what we do, and we are therefore very
proud to assist organisations and charities that share our values.
We are truly delighted to have partnered with the Soil

Association to support a thriving natural environment, increase
food production that is kinder to the planet and improve the
health of the nation. The Soil Association is the leading UK
organization promoting and campaigning for organic food and
beauty, and one of the leading certifiers of COSMOS organic
skincare products.
We are also proud to be Rainforest Guardians. Our support to

the Rainforest Foundation through their Rainforest Guardian
program helps give indigenous people the means to fight for
their rights and save the world’s rainforests. Specifically, we are
supporting the Foundation’s work to map the presence of the
most remote communities in Africa’s Congo Basin; protecting
rainforest communities’ rights to their land, while preserving
their forest from destruction.
The natural world is at the heart of all that we do at the School

of Natural Skincare, and it has always been of the utmost
importance to us that we set ourselves high standards of ethical
and sustainable practice as a business.
ETHICAL COMPANY ACCREDITATION
The Ethical Company Organisation prides itself on setting the benchmark for corporate social
responsibility, and awards Ethical Accreditation to successful candidate companies based on a
number of key factors.
We are delighted to share that the School of Natural Skincare has achieved Ethical Accreditation
every year since 2016.
As people and as a business, we are deeply conscious of the impact that humans can (and do)
have on our environment. To that end, we’re constantly looking for ways to become more ethical,
sustainable, natural and organic, both in our personal and working lives.
WHO IS THE DIPLOMA IN NATURAL

SKINCARE FORMULATION FOR?
INDIVIDUALS WITH A PASSION FOR SKINCARE
Take your skincare formulation skills to the next level! Formulate for different skin types
and concerns. Create products that are natural, organic, vegan, clean and/or sustainable.
BEAUTY BRAND FOUNDERS
Everything you need in one course! A complete, all-in-one course that helps you create
your brand, formulate your products and take them to market.
The Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation is the most

comprehensive online course available, taking you through
every aspect of creating skincare products – f rom def ining
your values and creating your brand, to formulating high-
quality, professional skincare products, having them tested
and complying with cosmetic regulations.
ENROLL NOW
WWW.SCHOOLOFNATURALSKINCARE.COM/FORMULATION
YOUR JOURNEY ON THE
- THIRD EDITION -
WHY LEARN TO FORMULATE

YOUR OWN PRODUCTS?
Create your own unique, professional standard skincare products – don’t just copy recipes
from others.
Select ingredients and design products tailored to the needs of yourself or your ideal
customers – this is the key to creating products people love!
Save time and costly mistakes. Learn the skills to formulate like a professional, not an amateur.
It is YOUR responsibility to sell products that are safe. Don’t take any chances. Have peace of
mind that you are creating high-quality, safe products.
CREATE YOUR OWN UNIQUE,

PROFESSIONAL STANDARD
SKINCARE PRODUCTS
MEET OUR TUTORS
GAIL DESPRÉS
FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR
Gail founded the School of Natural Skincare in 2010 and is

responsible for course design and development. She is the
author of the international bestselling book A-Z of Natural
Cosmetic Formulation: The definitive beginners’ guide to the
essential terminology, theories and ingredient types needed to
formulate professional cosmetic products.
Gail designed the course curriculum for the Diploma in

Natural Skincare Formulation based on her many years’
experience of teaching cosmetic formulation and the
suggestions of School of Natural Skincare students and tutors.
She presents many of the lessons, bringing together the

wide-ranging experience of the School of Natural Skincare’s
cosmetic scientists and formulators.
GARETH DESPRÉS
DIRECTOR AND AROMATHERAPIST
Gareth is an Aromatic Specialist and certified Aromatherapist,

having completed his studies at the Bristol School of Holistic
Therapies in 2010. Gareth is passionate about the use of
essential oils for health, happiness and wellbeing, and uses
them every day at home and in the office.
Gareth co-taught the School’s hands-on classes in the early

days and also ran his own aromatherapy and perfumery
classes. Now he designs course curriculums and contributes
his specialist knowledge of essential oils to the School’s online
courses, in addition to overseeing the School’s Marketing,
Finance, HR and Operations departments.
TINA SVETEK, MSc

COSMETIC SCIENTIST AND FORMULATION TUTOR
Tina is a scientist by background and completed her

postgraduate study in Biomedicine. Tina has been formulating
natural cosmetics since 2011. She worked as Head of Cosmetics
Department for a company in Slovenia where she developed
a natural cosmetics line from starting idea to launch. She is a
contributor to the A-Z of Natural Cosmetic Formulation, and
also works as a safety assessor and formulation consultant. Tina
supports students taking our courses by answering questions
posted in our regular Tutor Q&A sessions.
NICHOLA ROBERTS, BSc MSc

COSMETIC SCIENTIST AND FORMULATION TUTOR
Nichola is responsible for providing cosmetics expertise, creating

formulations, conducting formulation experiments and writing
course materials.
Nichola’s experience also ensures students are professionally

supported during their studies, helping to answer their questions
and marking their course assignments.
Previous to joining the School of Natural Skincare, Nichola had

experience as a Senior Innovation Chemist and Senior Laboratory
Technician for Acheson and Acheson, a leading British cosmetics
lab and formulating facility that formulates and manufactures for
global premium cosmetic brands. Nichola also holds an MSc and
a BSc in Cosmetic Science.
Nichola is also the co-author of the book Discovering Cosmetic

Science and has experience in successfully developing cosmetic
products from concept to launch.
CHANDNI PATEL , BSc

CONSULTANT COSMETIC SCIENTIST
Chandni Patel is our Consultant Cosmetic Scientist. Chandi has

a BSc in Cosmetic Science from the London College of Fashion
plus many years’ experience working in the cosmetics industry
formulating for big brands. She has formulated every type of
cosmetic, including skincare, haircare and nail varnish, for
brands such as The Body Shop, Tisserand, REN: Clean
Skincare and many more.
In addition to her formulating experience, Chandni works in

a regulatory role ensuring cosmetic products meet global
regulatory requirements.
Chandni’s role in the School of Natural Skincare is to align our

courses with university-taught content.
EMILIA MACARI
COSMETIC FORMULATOR AND FORMULATION TUTOR
Emilia created formulations for our courses and managed our in-
house lab. She also marked student assignments and supported
students with their studies.
Emilia’s experience ensured students learned how a professional

lab is set up and managed, and how professional formulators
approach formulating cosmetics so they can emulate this at home.
Before her time at the School of Natural Skincare, Emilia was a

very experienced cosmetic formulator who worked in a large UK
cosmetic lab as a formulator and laboratory manager.
She formulated cosmetics for both small and large brands and was
responsible for new product development in skincare and haircare,
from inception to final production, as per clients’ product briefs.
She was also responsible for organizing and conducting product
testing including stability, compatibility, microbiological, user trials
and patch testing. She ensured that all claims were substantiated
and all other regulatory standards met.
STUDYING WITH US
ONLINE CLASSROOM
When you enroll on a course with us we create an account

for you inside our user friendly online classroom. Our online
classroom can be accessed at any time and from any
device – computer, tablet or smartphone. You can log in to
study at a time that is convenient to you.
It’s easy to track your progress through each course by

marking lessons as complete. You can revisit lessons as
often as you like.
STUDY MATERIALS
Our study materials are provided in a variety of formats to

cater for different learning styles. Courses include:
• Comprehensive and beautifully designed textbooks
which are provided to you as PDFs to either download
or print.
• Workbooks and worksheets to complete as you
progress through the course, to help you complete
activities and solidify your knowledge.
• Video lessons, in which a course tutor presents a lesson.
• Video demonstrations, in which a tutor shows you how
to make different types of products, step-by-step.
• Templates for record keeping.
• Quizzes to test your knowledge.
• Practical activities to put your learning into practice.
CERTIFICATE
At the end of the course there are several assignments

for you to complete and submit to us to be marked.
On successful completion, your end-of-course completion
certificate will be issued and you will be the proud holder
of our Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation!
SUPPORT
The course has been designed primarily as an independent

study program. You can work through the materials at a time
that suits you, completing the exercises and practicing your
formulation skills.
We understand that it is helpful and enjoyable to meet others

on the course and to have a tutor available to answer your
questions. We also know that from time to time you may
need some technical assistance with the classroom or course
materials.
It’s important to us that you feel supported during your studies

with us and several avenues of assistance are available to you.
1. TECHNICAL/ADMINISTRATIVE HELP
Our customer service team are on hand if you require help with
technical or administrative matters such as:
• Your account.
• Accessing the course.
• Renewing your course access.
• Documents within the course.
• Your assignments.
• Joining the Facebook support group.
2. TUTOR SUPPORT
We recognize that while studying with us you are likely to have questions about
the course materials or about the products you make as part of your course.
It is important to us that you feel supported during your studies and that you
have a place to have your questions answered by one of our experienced and
professional formulation tutors.
To provide you with the best support, we have experienced cosmetic scientists
available within our private online classroom to answer your questions. To ensure
we answer your questions efficiently and effectively we invite questions from
students on specific days of the week.
3. PEER SUPPORT
The Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation has its own private support group
(hosted on Facebook) where you can meet and spend time with your student peers.
We have students and graduates in the group from all over the world! You can ask
questions, discuss formulations and feel part of a community as you progress through
your studies.
Students and graduates have a wealth of experience to share and we encourage

peer-to-peer support.
You can create a new post in the group to start a discussion with other members of
the group. You can also contribute to discussions by commenting on others’ posts.
4. FEEDBACK ON ASSIGNMENTS
At the end of your course you will submit assignments to us that will be marked by one of
our cosmetic scientists. You will receive helpful feedback on your assignments, including any
corrections that need to be made, so you can feel confident in the quality of your formulations.
5. PROMOTION OF YOUR BEAUTY BRAND
If you already have a beauty brand or you establish a new brand after your studies, we can help
you by promoting your brand to our vast, international audience! You’ll be invited to take part
in an interview and have a feature written about you and your brand which we will share with
hundreds of thousands of our followers, by email and across social media. This is the perfect
opportunity to start marketing your business and gain your own following!
WHAT PRODUCTS ARE COVERED

IN THE DIPLOMA IN NATURAL
SKINCARE FORMULATION?
YOU WILL LEARN TO FORMULATE A COMPLETE SKINCARE RANGE!
Cleansers, oils and oil-based serums, creams and lotions, gels, exfoliators,
bath and shower products, balms, butters and toners . . . and more!
CLEANSERS EXFOLIATORS
• Cleansing oils • Exfoliating facial polish
• Oil-to-milk cleansers • Exfoliating body polish
• Cleansing gels/cleansing melts • Body scrubs
• Cleansing balms • Exfoliating lotion
• Emulsifying cleansing balms • AHA/BHA exfoliating creams,
masks and toner
• Cleansing lotions
• Cream cleansers
OILS AND OIL-BASED SERUMS BATH AND SHOWER PRODUCTS

• Facial oils • Bath soaks
• Oil-based facial serums • Bath oil
• Body oils • Self-emulsifying bath oil
• Massage oils • Shower oil
• Dry oil body spritz • Self-emulsifying shower oil
CREAMS AND LOTIONS BALMS AND BUTTERS

• Moisturizing fluid • Lip balm
• Oil-free moisturizing lotion • Cleansing balm
• Face lotion • Facial balms
• Face cream • Body balms
• Body milk • Massage balms
• Body lotion • Salves
• Body cream • Oil-gel balms
• Body butter • Anhydrous body butters
GELS TONERS
• Hydrating facial gels (water-based) • Toners
• Body gels (water-based) • Spritzers/mists
• Oil-based gels (oleogels) • AHA/BHA toners
SUMMARY OF COURSE DETAILS
Level Beginner to intermediate.
18 months’ access.
Duration of access
This can be extended for a small renewal fee.
None. Internet access and access to a computer, mobile phone

Prerequisites
or tablet is needed to access the online classroom.
Approximately 70-150 hours.

Study time required
Most students complete the course within 6-18 months.
Your certificate is issued on successful completion

Certif icate
of the end-of-course assignments.
Enrollment is open year round and you can enroll

When can I start?
and start the course as soon as you are ready.
COURSE CURRICULUM
A S U MMA RY O F CO U R SE DE TA ILS
MODULE 1: YOUR VALUES, BRAND AND CREATING UNIQUE PRODUCTS
Create a unique brand by establishing your personal or brand values, consider which niche to
fill or certifications to adhere to, create a product story and define your brand’s unique selling
proposition.
1.1 Your brand values

We help you define your values so you can create a unique brand that
stands out from the crowd (and creates a better world at the same
time!). What is important to you as a brand creator? Organic, natural,
green, vegan, cruelty-free, palm oil-free, clean, ethical?
1.1.1 Spotlight: Vegan skincare

We deep-dive into vegan skincare – what it is and how to formulate
natural, vegan skincare products.
1.1.2 Spotlight: Sustainable skincare

We deep-dive into sustainable skincare. Discover the three pillars of
sustainability and how to make your brand sustainable.
1.1.3 Spotlight: Waterless skincare

Discover the benefits of waterless skincare and how to formulate
waterless products.
1.2 Def ining ‘natural’ and ‘organic’

What does natural mean? How do you know if an ingredient is
considered natural and permitted in natural cosmetics? What do the
terms organic, green and clean mean? We set the record straight so
you can choose how to define natural for your brand.
1.2.1 Spotlight: Clean skincare

We deep dive into clean skincare – what it is and why it is appealing to
consumers.
1.3 Getting certif ied

Certification isn’t essential but you may like to explore your options.
Learn about the different global standards and options for certification:
organic, natural, vegan, fairtrade, cruelty-free and more.
1.4 Creating a strong brand identity

Discover 10 key aspects of a strong brand identity and how to use
them to create your own unique and inspiring brand that your ideal
customers love! Learn from real examples of trailblazing brands and
apply the same principles to your brand identity.
1.4.1 Your product story

A great formula isn’t the only thing a product needs to succeed. We
take you step-by-step through the process of creating a captivating
product story to showcasing its unique selling proposition (USP) and
attracting a loyal following.
1.5 Your skincare line

How many products should you include in your skincare line? It is far
less than you might think! What is a ‘star’ or ‘hero’ product and why do
you need one? Start to design your skincare line with confidence.
MODULE 2: SKINCARE PRODUCT DESIGN PROCESS
Follow our step-by-step design process to formulate products and select

ingredients to achieve the result you or your customers desire. Learn the steps
required to take a product from concept through to a final product that is
ready for sale.
2.1 Your ideal customers

Avoid one of the biggest mistakes made by beauty brand founders by getting
to know who you want to sell your products to first and then create something
that meets their needs. This is the secret to designing a product customers
need, want, love and will buy again and again.
2.2 The six-step ‘must-have’ product design process

Learn how to create skincare to address specific needs and concerns. Our
signature six-step ‘must-have’ product design process shows you how to
provide the skincare solutions you (or your customers) need and want!
2.3 Product concept to f inal formula

We start by exploring the seven key aspects to a great performing formula.
Then we take you step-by-step through the process of creating a product
concept and turning it into reality. Discover our 12-step process to perfecting
your formula.
BONUS: Formulate a facial oil challenge

Start your formulating journey by following our six-part formulation challenge!
ENROLL NOW
MODULE 3: CREATING PROFESSIONAL COSMETIC FORMULATIONS
Develop a product concept using a product development brief and a benchmark,

write a formula in the correct manner, evaluate your product’s sensory characteristics
and submit your product for the appropriate lab tests.
3.1 Cosmetics: Def initions, categories and regulations

Before you start to formulate skincare products you will need to ensure your products
fit the definition of a cosmetic rather than a drug (the line is easy to cross!).
3.2 Types of cosmetic formula

Learn the three main types of cosmetic formula that we’ll cover in this course and the
facts about each.
3.3 What is a formula?

Discover how to write a professional formula and the essential information to include.
We take you through this, step-by-step, so even if you are completely new you’ll feel
confident writing formulas rather than recipes and understand why it is so important.
3.3.1 Percentages in more detail

In this lesson we take a closer look at percentages. This is an optional lesson for
students who are unfamiliar with percentages or who would like to understand more
about them. You will learn what a percentage is and how to convert a percentage into
a fraction or decimal.
3.3.2 Turning a recipe into a formula

We show you how to convert recipes into a professional and standardized formula.
3.4 Using a product development brief

A product development brief is a secret weapon to designing skincare products that
have your desired characteristics and that work! We provide a useful template and
describe how to use it to achieve your skincare goals.
3.5 Using a benchmark

Discover how to use a product on the market to create similar characteristics in your
own product. Learn what ‘reverse formulating’ is and how to decipher a product label
or ingredient list to create your own similar product.
3.6 Sensory product evaluation

Evaluate the sensorial properties of your products and make any necessary
adjustments to perfect your formula. Our product evaluation template makes
this easy!
3.7 Cosmetic product testing

Ensuring your products are safe protects both you and your customers. It is also a
legal requirement in many countries. Learn about various types of testing, including
preservative efficacy testing (PET), also known as microbiological or challenge testing,
stability and compatibility testing, Cosmetic Product Safety Reports (CPSRs) and more.
Plus discover some ways you can ‘pre-test’ your products at home for microbiological
and stability issues.
I want to thank the School for teaching me so

much about a field that I’m passionate about.
After taking your courses, I felt equipped to
start my own brand and immediately got to the
implementation part of my business plan.
Mariam Hammoud, Germany

Botanique d’Orient
MODULE 4: SKIN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY: FORMULATING

FOR DIFFERENT SKIN TYPES
Apply knowledge of how the skin functions, the physiological changes that occur as
the skin ages, common characteristics of different skin types, tones and concerns to
formulate products suited for oily, sensitive, dry, combination and aging skin and to
address concerns such as hyperpigmentation.
4.1 The function and structure of the skin

Learn the seven main functions of the skin, then we take you layer-by-layer
through the epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous layers learning about the main
responsibilities of each. We explore the epidermis in detail, following the production of
skin cells from creation to shedding away.
4.2 The skin barrier

A disrupted skin barrier can cause dry patches and flakiness, plus the skin can feel
sensitive or inflamed. Discover the significance of the skin barrier and how to keep it in
optimum condition.
4.3 Moisturizing the skin: water, humectants, emollients and occlusives

Learn how to effectively moisturize the skin, and the benefits and limitations of
anhydrous products and emulsions.
4.4 The acid mantle

An important role of the acid mantle is to maintain the skin’s pH balance, which helps
maintain skin suppleness, smoothness and strength. Discover factors affecting the
acid mantle pH, possible characteristics of a disrupted acid mantle pH and how to
protect and restore the acid mantle.
4.5 Skin aging

Understand in detail how the skin ages, the physiological changes, visible signs of skin
aging and how skincare products can improve the appearance of aging skin.
4.6 Formulating for different skin types and concerns

We take a close look at different skin types (including mature, oily/acne-prone, dry,
sensitive and normal), the characteristics of these skin types and which ingredients
are beneficial. We provide you with a guide for each skin type, which will be invaluable
when you start formulating!
We also explore the role of cosmetics and drugs in the treatment of skin conditions
including acne, eczema/dermatitis, hyperpigmentation, psoriasis and rosacea.
4.7 Formulating for the eye contour and lips

We share the factors to consider when formulating for the eye contour, how the skin
on our lips is different to the skin on our face and what lips need to stay in optimum
condition.
4.8 Skincare routine

A skincare routine doesn’t need to be complicated but it is the key to radiant skin!
Follow our simple facial and body care routines and learn about occasional skincare
treatments.
“At the age of 58, I’m much older than most aspiring
entrepreneurs but my dream has finally become a reality!
I decided to study with the School of Natural Skincare

because they offered an amazing program that I could
study in my own time.
I’m very excited about my own natural products,

which I’ve created, that are coming soon!
It’s been a challenge, but rewarding, too!”
Sindy Kimmis Farris, USA

Two Margarets Beauty
MODULE 5: COSMETIC INGREDIENTS AND RAW MATERIALS
Select ingredients and cosmetic raw materials appropriate for your formula with
confidence by applying your knowledge of the functions, properties and benefits
of a wide range of ingredients. This module is a vast library of reliable and accurate
information you will refer to again and again!
5.1 Classif ication of ingredients/raw materials

Ingredients fall into different categories and it is important to understand which
category they belong to so you can formulate with them effectively.
5.2 Compatibility of ingredients/raw materials

How do you know which ingredients are compatible with one another? Discover six
properties of ingredients that affect their compatibility.
5.3 Ingredients and functions: An overview

This lesson will provide an overview of the ingredients covered in this module and
indicates within which lesson you can find further information.
5.4 Researching ingredients/raw materials

With so much unreliable or incorrect information online and in books, how do you
know where to find accurate and reliable information about ingredients? We share our
top recommendations with you.
5.5 Lipids
Lipids are a key ingredient in natural skincare products; they soften the skin, help
the skin retain its moisture and support the skin’s barrier function. Discover the
functions and benefits of lipids, how they are extracted and processed, and about
comedogenicity.
5.5.1 Composition of lipids

Discover the chemistry of lipids, and take a deep-dive into fatty acids, unsaponifiables
and vitamins.
5.5.2 Carrier oils

Carrier oils offer different benefits to the skin and contribute different properties and
qualities to your skincare products depending on their composition. Discover 35 carrier
oils in detail.
5.5.3 Esters
Esters are a special kind of emollient with a light, silky skin feel that are an ideal
replacement to silicones. Discover natural ester options to use in your formulations.
5.5.4 Butters
Butters are rich and creamy and a delightful addition to cosmetics! Learn about a range
of butters, including some exotic options.
5.5.5 Waxes
Waxes play a number of important roles in cosmetics. Discover both vegan and non-
vegan options including a detailed comparison guide.
5.5.6 How to select lipids for your formulations

With so many lipids to choose from, how do you select which to use? We share nine key
factors to consider.
5.5.7 Getting to know your lipids

Lipids need to be experienced first-hand to be understood properly. Our useful
worksheet will take you through the process of getting to know your lipids.
5.6 Humectants
Humectants are ingredients that attract water from the atmosphere to the skin and
bind it there. Humectants work with emollients and occlusives to keep skin moisture
at optimal levels. Discover seven natural humectants and how to use them.
5.7 Clays, powders, salt and exfoliants

A variety of dry raw materials are useful in cosmetics and they have a number of
different functions such as absorbing oil, exfoliating, and adding color and visual appeal.
5.8 Active ingredients

Active ingredients are high-performance ingredients that offer a special benefit
to the skin.
5.8.1 Antioxidants
Antioxidants have two main functions: to extend the shelf-life of cosmetics and to provide
benefits to the skin. Learn about a variety of natural antioxidants.
5.8.2 Vitamins
Learn about three vitamins that are a very beneficial addition to skincare products: Vitamin
B3 (niacinamide), pro-Vitamin B5 (panthenol) and Vitamin E. Discover their benefits and
how to successfully incorporate them into your formulations.
5.8.3 Botanical extracts

Botanical extracts are a vast category of ingredient! Learn about all the different ways
they can be extracted and the types of formula you can use them in. Then we look at 21
botanical extracts in detail.
5.9 Essential oils, hydrosols and f ragrances

Learn about fragrancing cosmetic products and key considerations when using essential
oils, such as how they work, how much to use, how to use them safely and phototoxicity.
5.9.1 Essential oil quick reference chart

A handy reference chart to use when formulating.
5.9.2 Essential oil prof iles

Essential oils have many benefits for the skin such as being antiseptic, astringent or
anti-inflammatory and also provide a wonderful fragrance to cosmetics. We provide
24 detailed essential oil profiles.
5.9.3 Getting to know your essential oils

We share our well-loved method for really getting to know your essential oils.
5.9.4 How to choose and blend essential oils

Use our helpful tips to create synergistic essential oil blends.
5.9.5 International Fragrance Association (IFRA) guidelines and calculating

allergen levels
A step-by-step guide to calculating essential oil allergen levels and when to include
allergens on your label.
5.10 Functional ingredients

Functional ingredients make a product work. They have a specific function or deliver a
certain benefit.
5.10.1 Natural emulsif iers for creams and lotions

Emulsifiers are a key functional ingredient in cosmetics. Learn about what emulsifiers
are, how they work and why they are used in cosmetics. Discover 13 natural emulsifiers
for making creams and lotions, including palm oil-free emulsifiers.
5.10.2 Emulsif iers for self-emulsifying oils and oleogels

Create innovative oil-to-milk and gel-to-milk cleansers, scrubs and bath and shower oils
with special self-emulsifying emulsifiers. Discover exciting new ingredients and how to
use them.
5.10.3 Thickeners
Discover a variety of natural oil and water phase thickeners for viscosity modification.
Create gels, thicken formulas and improve emulsion stability.
5.10.4 Solubilizers
Solubilizers are required to add oil soluble ingredients such as essential oils into a
water-based product, like facial toner, body spritzer or gel. Learn about several natural
solubilizer options.
5.10.5 pH adjusters
Testing and adjusting the pH of cosmetics is a crucial step! Discover how to choose an
appropriate pH adjustment solution.
5.11 Natural colorants

We explore a variety of ways of coloring your skincare products from using mineral
pigments and micas to using the natural color present in a variety of oils and extracts.
5.12 Organizing and storing materials in your lab

Crucial to good manufacturing practice is organizing and storing raw materials properly.
Use our useful incoming ingredient (raw material) log to help you.
5.13 Substituting ingredients

If you cannot find a certain ingredient what do you do? We give you a six-step process to
finding suitable substitutes.
5.14 Supplier list: Cosmetic ingredients and equipment

A list of hundreds of cosmetic ingredient suppliers from all around the world! Plus a
shortlist of our favorite in each region.
The idea that I could access all of the resources

online and experiment in my own kitchen really
worked for my schedule!
Even if I don’t have a question, I still read

the questions of the other students to see their
challenges or observations.
Cortney, UK
Wilder
MODULE 6: LAB SKILLS, EQUIPMENT AND PACKAGING
Set up a home lab with the appropriate equipment, adhere to good manufacturing
practice, carry out key production process techniques and make different sized batches.
6.1 Equipment for your home lab

Learn about the equipment you need to set up your own small-scale lab at home, with
plenty of recommendations for items such as weighing scales and immersion blenders.
6.2 Professional lab equipment

Learn about five pieces of professional laboratory equipment that are useful for home
formulators who are serious about formulating or who manufacture products for sale.
We compare magnetic stirrers, overhead stirrers and homogenizers so you understand
the difference and which, in our opinion, are worth investing in (and which are not).
6.3 Scaling up and manufacturing equipment

Discover the equipment used in professional manufacturing settings and about
the scaling-up process: how to take a product you have formulated at home into a
manufacturing setting.
6.4 Good manufacturing practice (GMP)

GMP is essential for producing high-quality products and is a fundamental requirement
if you sell your products. Our handy checklist, calibration records and manufacturing log
will ensure that you have easy-to-follow guidelines and records in place.
.5 Lab techniques and skills

6
Develop the key skills you need for making your products: weighing, heating, calibrating,
sanitizing, mixing, homogenizing, filling and calibrating.
.6 Testing pH
6
We get many questions on this topic so we have provided a thorough and detailed
lesson, including video demonstrations, that explain what pH is, why and when to
measure pH, how to measure pH and how to work with and look after a pH meter.
.7 Adjusting pH
6
Learn step-by-step how to create pH adjustment solutions, how to adjust pH, calculating
the amount of solid/pure pH adjuster used and rewriting your formula to include the
pH adjuster.
6.8 Calculating batch sizes

Students often come to us really confused about formulation math! We help you
to become confident working in percentages and calculating weight-based
measurements for different batch sizes. We even provide a handy batch calculator to
make it really easy!
.9 Cosmetic packaging
6
Learn about the purpose of cosmetic packaging, packaging types, materials and
closures, how to clean and sanitize packaging, plus the nine factors to consider when
choosing packaging.
MODULE 7: PRESERVING SKINCARE PRODUCTS NATURALLY
Cosmetic preservative is such an important topic that we have dedicated a whole module
to it. Put into place strategies to extend the shelf-life of your products and preserve your
products effectively to ensure they stay in optimum condition.
7.1 Introduction to microbiology

Microbes can cause product degradation and harm consumers. Educate yourself about the
microbes that affect cosmetics, the conditions under which they grow and how they enter
cosmetic products, so you can protect your products, your customers and yourself.
7.2 Strategies for prolonging shelf-life

We explain how shelf-life is determined and give you eight strategies for extending the shelf-
life of your cosmetics (using preservatives is only one) so you can ensure the highest quality
and longest shelf-life of your products.
7.3 Natural preservatives

We have hand picked our favorite nine COSMOS-approved broad-spectrum preservative
blends that are reliable and easy to use. Discover the factors that impact the effectiveness
of your preservative, both how to optimize the effectiveness of a preservative and problem
ingredients that should be avoided.
7.3.1 Preservative ingredients

If you are interested in understanding more about the components of the different
preservative blends that we cover in lesson 7.3, this lesson is for you!
7.4 Creating a preservative system

A broad-spectrum preservative blend is not always enough to provide adequate protection
or to withstand challenge/preservative efficacy testing. Learn our system for combining
preservatives and chelators to create a robust broad-spectrum preservative system.
MODULE 8: FORMULATING OILS, OIL-BASED SERUMS AND

SELF-EMULSIFYING OILS
Formulate and make a range of anhydrous oils, oil-based serums and self-emulsifying oils for
the face, bath and body.
8.1 Introduction to formulating oils, oil-based serums and self-emulsifying oils

Learn the fundamentals of these product types including their similarities and differences,
suitable ingredients, how to choose oils, product shelf-life and how to evaluate your formula.
8.2 Formulating body and massage oils

Learn to formulate dry oil body spritzes, body oils and massage oils for soft, supple skin.
Discover what they are, how they are different from each other, ingredients to use and how
to formulate them. Follow our formulation guides and templates to formulate your own!
Five example formulas are provided, including Moringa Dry Oil Body Spritz and Coconut and
Lime Body Oil.
8.3 Formulating facial oils and serums

Facial oils and oil-based serums can deliver a range of benefits including regenerating,
nourishing, balancing, calming, soothing and antioxidant. Learn how to choose oils for
different skin types and purposes and which botanical extracts, vitamins and antioxidants to
use. Follow our formulation guides and templates to formulate your own!
Four example formulas are provided, including Soothing Facial Serum for Sensitive Skin and
Antioxidant Facial Serum with Coenzyme Q10.
8.4 Formulating bath and shower oils

New generation bath and shower oils use self-emulsifying emulsifiers to create oil-to-milk
products that are applied as an oil and magically turn to milk when they come into contact
with water! We explain which emulsifiers are suited to this purpose (including some brand
new to the market) and how to formulate your own, step-by-step.
Three example formulas are provided, including Lime and Sweet Orange Shower Oil and
Lavender and Bergamot Bath Oil.
8.5 Formulating cleansing oils, oil-to-milk cleansers and cleansing gels

Cleansing oils are hugely popular as they effectively cleanse the skin and leave it soft and
nourished! In this lesson you will learn to formulate a traditional cleansing oil, cutting edge
oil-to-milk cleansing oils and cleansing gels using a range of innovative emulsifiers. Use our
helpful formulation guides and templates to formulate your own!
Seven example formulas are provided including Grapefruit Cleansing Oil, Pomegranate
Cleansing Gel and Frankincense Cleansing Melt.
8.6 Troubleshooting oils, oil-based serums and self-emulsifying oils

A helpful troubleshooting guide is provided to help you avoid running into difficulties and to
fix any issues that may arise when formulating and manufacturing these product types.
MODULE 9: FORMULATING BUTTERS AND BALMS
Formulate and make a range of gorgeous anhydrous, preservative-free balms and butters,
including whipped body butters, lip balms, facial and body balms and salves, oleogels and
cleansing balms.
9.1 Introduction to formulating anhydrous butters and balms

Learn the fundamentals of these product types including their similarities and differences,
suitable ingredients, how to choose oils, butters and waxes, product shelf-life and how to
evaluate your formula.
9.2 Formulating anhydrous body butters

Whip exotic butters into beautifully moisturizing body butters (no preservatives required!).
Follow our formulation guides and templates to formulate your own!
Four example formulas are provided, including Whipped Body Butter with Babassu Oil
and Illipe Butter and Sweet Orange and Kokum Whipped Body Butter.
9.3 Formulating balms and salves

From simple salves to protective lip balms, multi-purpose beauty balms to emulsifying
cleansing balms and oleogels (oil-based gels); this lesson is full of inspiration and guidance
for taking balm-style formulations to the next level!
Nine example formulas are provided, including Vegan Calendula Salve, Wild Rose Beauty
Balm, Illipe and Murumuru Lip Balm, Sweet Almond Moisturizing Gel-balm and Coconut,
Illipe and Green Tea Cleansing Balm.
9.4 Troubleshooting balms and butters

How do you make less oily feeling butters? How do you increase their melting point? How do
you stop them going grainy? We cover all this and more in our troubleshooting guide.
MODULE 10: FORMULATING SPA-STYLE SOAKS, SCRUBS AND POLISHES
Formulate and make a range of indulgent soaks, scrubs and polishes just like you would find
in a high-end spa!
10.1 Formulating spa-style soaks

Learn to formulate a range of soaks including bath soaks, and hand and foot soaks,
for soothing, relaxing, invigorating or reviving the mind, body and senses! Follow our
formulation guides and templates to formulate your own.
Three example formulas are provided, including Relaxing Rose and Milk Bath Soak and
Invigorating Peppermint Foot Soak.
10.2 Formulating exfoliating scrubs and polishes

Formulate professional quality facial and body polishes with emulsifiers that rinse off easily
from the skin. We also teach you how to formulate a lip scrub for beautiful soft lips!
Five example formulas are provided, including Peach and Poppy Seed Body Scrub, Vanilla
and Shea Sugar Scrub and Softening Lip Scrub.
10.3 Troubleshooting spa-style soaks, scrubs and polishes

Feel confident to troubleshoot any issues that may arise with our troubleshooting guide.
ENROLL NOW
MODULE 11: FORMULATING TONERS, SPRITZERS, MISTS AND GELS
Formulate and make a range of refreshing toners, spritzers and mists using delicate hydrosols
and botanicals. Create hydrating gels for the face and body with powerful humectants.
11.1 Introduction to formulating toners, spritzers, mists and gels

Learn the fundamentals of formulating these types of aqueous products, including
suitable ingredients.
11.1.1 Experiment and report: Three natural solubilizers

This in-depth report will show you how to work with various natural solubilizers (and which are
most effective).
11.1.2 Experiment and report: How hydrosols can challenge the performance of
the preservative system
Discover the affects hydrosols can have on the performance of your preservative system.
11.2 Formulating toners, spritzers and mists

Explore water soluble extracts, vitamins and humectants for supercharging your toners,
spritzers and mists, plus how to use natural solubilizers to incorporate essential oils.
Follow our formulation guides and templates to formulate your own.
Four example formulas are provided, including Juniper Berry and Lemon Toner, Green Tea Toner
for Oily Skin and Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Toner.
11.3 Formulating gels

Discover different natural thickeners for creating gels and how to make gels with a range of
functions including hydrating, soothing and helping with hyperpigmentation.
Four example formulas are provided, including Licorice and Niacinamide Gel for
hyperpigmentation and Oil-free Moisturizing Gel.
11.4 Troubleshooting toners, spritzers, mists and gels

11.5 Laboratory test reports: Toners, spritzers, mists and gels

MODULE 12: THE SCIENCE OF EMULSIFICATION
Comprehend the science of emulsification, describe the structure of an emulsion formula

and apply your understanding of emulsification to successfully create emulsions and solve
stability issues.
12.1 What is an emulsion?

Creams and lotions are examples of emulsions and in this lesson you will learn what an emulsion
is, the two main phases of an emulsion, simple emulsion types (O/W and W/O), different uses of
cosmetic emulsions and the three types of emulsification needed to form a successful emulsion.
12.2 Surfactants and the science of emulsif ication

In this more advanced lesson we take a closer look at the science of emulsification, what an
emulsifier is and how they work.
12.3 How to make an emulsion: Phases and stages in emulsion manufacture

In this lesson you learn the three phases of an emulsion and how these are written in your formula,
the three stages of making an emulsion (heating, mixing and cooling) and three factors in the
manufacturing process that can affect your emulsion characteristics.
12.3.1 Variations in emulsion manufacturing method

There are some possible variations in the manufacturing process which we explore in this lesson.
12.4 How to choose your emulsif ier

This lesson will help you choose which emulsifier to use. Discover key questions to ask when
choosing your emulsifier and use our emulsifier checklist to help you create stable emulsions.
12.5 Rheology, viscosity modif ication and emulsion stability

Learn how to modify the rheology and viscosity of your creams and lotions using different
categories of rheology modifiers and how this contributes to emulsion stability.
12.6 Solving emulsion instability

It can be very frustrating when lotions separate and you don’t know what you did wrong and
how to fix it! This lesson will ensure that you know the steps you can take to solve any stability
issues you encounter. You’ll learn the four causes of emulsion instability (creaming, sedimentation,
flocculation, coalescence) and how to solve them.
MODULE 13: FORMULATING CREAMS AND LOTIONS
Formulate and make a wide range of creams and lotions for the face and body,
from lighter body milks and lotions to richer creams and body butters.
13.1 Introduction to formulating creams and lotions

As creams are emulsions containing both an oil phase and water phase there are lots
of amazing ingredients that can be used in them! Learn the basics of cream and lotion
formulation including which ingredients to include in which phase. We break down a
formula into all its components and discuss the function of each main ingredient so you
will feel confident putting your own formulation together.
13.2 Formulating creams and lotions for the face and body
Learn to formulate a wide range of beautiful body care products from light sprayable body
milks, to softening lotions and rich, thick body butters. Follow our formulation guides and
templates to formulate your own!
Two example formulas are provided including Rose and Macadamia Body Lotion and
Coconut and Shea Body Butter.
Then create beautiful facial moisturizers for all skin types, from light oil-free lotions to
nourishing creams, with a range of rejuvenating and regenerating ingredients. Delve into
high-performance ingredients and active botanicals to create products that are both natural
and powerful! Learn about these product types including night creams, day creams and eye
creams. Discover what they are, the differences, typical ingredients and how to formulate
them for different skin types. Watch a video demonstration so you know how to make your
own, step-by-step.
Six example formulas are provided including Frankincense Face Cream for Mature Skin with
Coenzyme Q10, Facial Lotion with Licorice and Niacinamide and Eye Cream with Caffeine
and Ceramide Complex.
13.3 Formulating cleansing and exfoliating lotions

Cleansing lotions are a gentle and effective way to cleanse the skin. Learn about the typical
ingredients used in cleansing lotions and how to formulate them. Formulation templates
and guidelines are provided.
We include two formulations: Soothing Cleansing Lotion for Sensitive Skin and Olive Facial
Exfoliating Lotion.
13.4 Troubleshooting creams and lotions

13.5 Laboratory test reports: Creams and lotions

MODULE 14 COSMETIC REGULATIONS AND BUSINESS ESSENTIALS
Comply with cosmetic, labeling and claims regulations.
14.1 Selling your products legally: An introduction

This lesson we cover seven important steps to take before you sell your products.
14.2 Creating a Product Information File (PIF)

A Product Information File is a very important document that contains all the essential
information about a product formula. In many countries it is a requirement to create
one for each product you sell. Our PIF template will make it easier for you to keep the
necessary records.
14.3 Cosmetic regulations by country

If you wish to sell your products it is essential that you comply with the relevant cosmetic
regulations. In this lesson we provide lots of helpful information so you will know the
regulations to comply with and what you need to do. We include the regulations in the USA,
Canada, EU, UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and India.
14.4 Cosmetic claims

Understand what you can and cannot say about your cosmetics and how to substantiate
any claims you make. This helps you stay compliant with the regulations when labeling and
marketing your products.
BONUS CLASSES
WI T H EVE RY E NR OL L ME NT YOU WILL ALSO RECEIVE T HREE BON U S E S:
FORMULATING WITH AHAs AND BHAs
AHAs and BHAs are a must-have in your skincare routine. In our detailed guide you’ll learn:
• The benefits of formulating with AHAs and BHAs including their exfoliating, humectant,
anti-aging and anti-acne functions.
• How to formulate safely and effectively with lactic acid, glycolic acid, malic acid,
salicylic acid, Fruit Acid Complex and willow bark extract.
You’ll receive formulation examples for Cherry Radiance Mask, Superfruit Toner for
Blemished Skin, Peppermint Foot Cream and Regenerating Night Cream.
DIGITAL COPY OF THE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING BOOK

A-Z OF NATURAL COSMETIC FORMULATION
We recently published the definitive beginners’ guide to the essential terminology, theories
and ingredient types needed to formulate professional cosmetic products. This book:
• Is an invaluable reference guide and useful companion to our Diploma in Natural
Skincare Formulation.
• Provides you with explanations of the essential terminology, theories and ingredient
types required to create natural, safe and stable cosmetic formulations.
• Dispels common myths and answers the most frequently asked formulating questions.
FORMULATING FACE AND BODY WASHES WITH NATURAL SURFACTANTS
Discover a selection of natural surfactants that are used to create foaming products. In this
class you’ll learn to formulate two popular types of surfactant-based products: face washes
and body washes. This bonus includes:
• An introduction to the science of surfactants.
• A selection of gentle, natural surfactant choices (so you can avoid harsh surfactants such
as SLS).
• How to formulate face and body washes that are both mild and effective.
As a holistic health coach and a soon-

to-be aromatherapist, making my
products and having them available to
my clients is in great alignment with
the values I teach.
Katrina Hawes, USA

Living Naturally Healthy
ENROLLMENT IS OPEN YEAR ROUND AND YOU

CAN ENROLL AND START THE COURSE AS SOON
AS YOU ARE READY
ENROLL NOW
• Formulate natural skincare products

like a professional.
• Design and launch your own

skincare brand.
• Join the Diploma in Natural Skincare

Formulation now!
CAREERS
Graduating from the School of Natural Skincare opens up some exciting career
prospects, freeing your potential in the world of skincare creation, formulation
and manufacture.
The Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation is a very wide-ranging course that

teaches you how to create safe, effective and natural skincare products, and also
gives you the knowledge and skills you need in order to create products that
customers will love. It also offers in-depth business information, giving you all
the skills you will need to grow and transform your whole career. From high-level
business must-haves, to hands-on product creation, our Diploma course teaches
you to develop the products – and the business – you have always dreamed
of making.
After completing the course, you will be well equipped for careers in fields such as
running your own beauty brand, contract manufacturing, private labeling, white
labeling, formulation consultancy and offering live training classes on skincare
production and formulation.
RUNNING YOUR OWN BEAUTY BRAND
Once you have graduated from our Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation, you
will be well on your way. The Diploma is a comprehensive, start-to-finish course
that covers everything you need to know to begin formulating a range of natural
products and developing your business, so you can start creating straight away.
We cover everything from formulating and ingredients to skin science, cosmetic
regulations, packaging and product safety.
When you run your own beauty brand you are completely free in terms of
creativity, which is one of the biggest benefits of this course. You can have fun
creating a brand your way and letting your creativity loose on product formulation.
STUDENT BRANDS
Our graduates have established beauty brands in every corner of the globe!
You can read about some of them by taking a look at our Student Success Stories:
www.schoolofnaturalskincare.com/student-success-stories
Kelly Ford, founder of award-winning brand Wheesht, has created a natural skincare brand with
an ethical approach and social responsibility at its heart.
“Wheesht is a skincare company with a difference. In addition to natural, vegan and cruelty-
free products we are firm believers in our social responsibility. Our aim at Wheesht is to give our
customers ethical skincare products they can use with a clear conscience.”
www.wheeshtmasks.co.uk
As a mom and homesteader living amongst the rivers, forests and mountains of British Columbia
in Canada, Diane Evdokimoff has always been drawn to the power of nature to nourish and heal.
“I completed the Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation to get in-depth knowledge to

formulate high-end products for my customers. I love to formulate!
It has the most flexible and comprehensive course material that is easily accessed and in
language that allowed for building blocks to continue learning and understanding.
I had no idea that the opportunity to study with the School of Natural Skincare would afford me
the ability to create such amazing unique products in the natural cosmetic industry!
I have now established my beauty brand Wild Beauty Skin Care. Being able to provide the
knowledge I have learnt to my customers is incredible, because there’s not a lot of people who can
do that!
The School of Natural Skincare offered the flexibility and in-depth study I was looking for and
studying with them has been one of the greatest assets to creating a thriving natural cosmetic
company.”
https://wildbeauty.ca
Queen Daniel Okpakhalu – Kefyna Naturel
“As a teenager and until adulthood I suffered from severe acne. There were times when I had
terrible breakouts that were so embarrassing. I used all kinds of products, but nothing worked. I
could not go out without wearing makeup. I kept searching for natural and homemade remedies
for my acne, blemishes, oily skin and my general wellbeing. Finding natural solutions to my skin
and general wellbeing became a passion.
I knew I needed professional knowledge to become a skincare formulator. I found the School of
Natural Skincare and completed the Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation.
The quality of training materials and support are exceptional. They take into consideration some of
the issues that African skin experiences, and teach how to formulate for black skin.
Now I have a beauty brand creating professional and unique bespoke products that help people
with their skin conditions.”
http://kefynanaturel.com
Farida O’Seery is the founder of theBeauvoir – 50+ anti-agism natural skincare. Her aim is to
create ‘anti-agism products’ that recognize and respect a woman’s age and beauty.
“theBeauvoir is a brand of natural and organic skincare for women over 50. It knows what your
skin needs and gives you the feeling that you still count as a 50+ woman.
Older women are being made to believe that once they exceed 50 they have ‘had their best time’.
That strangling beauty myth is rampant. I want to change that with theBeauvoir. I’d like to help
us all out of believing that youth is everything and save us from the grip of a dark beauty industry,
where older women lose sight of what really counts for their skin: keeping it vital, strong, healthy
and glowing.”
www.thebeauvoir.com
Esther Sangiovanni – Esangi
“Since switching to organic skincare all the issues I used to experience have been resolved and my
skin is much healthier, brighter and better than it was before. Creating my own organic skincare
means I can offer people a natural and organic alternative to chemical-laden skincare products.
The Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation enabled me to gain the knowledge and skills I
needed to be able to formulate truly natural and healthy skincare products.
I was hoping to gain more knowledge so that I could formulate safe and effective skincare products
for my family. However, the course exceeded my expectations and was more in-depth than I had
realized. As a result, after completing the Diploma, I started my own business! I wanted to offer
people like me a natural, alternative range of skincare.
Enrolling on the Diploma was a game-changer for me; I can now confidently write a skincare
formula and accurately make my own nourishing, organic skincare products without having to go
through the pain of trial and error, struggling to follow other people’s formulas.
This course has paved a way to a new career for me. As the business grows and expands, I’m hoping
to be able to work in natural skincare and haircare full-time as it’s something I’m passionate about.”
https://esangi.co
Meadow Skincare, co-founded by Kelly Spinks, is a small, British, independently-owned, vegan,

natural skincare range, with environmental responsibility and sustainability at its heart. Kelly knew
that with her company’s focused mission, she needed a course that could both provide the results
she was searching for, as well as be in alignment with that sustainable, natural vision.
“Everything created by Meadow never compromises the health of your skin or the environment.
With a genuine love of quality skincare, we hand blend fresh formulations in micro-batches
from some of the most brilliant botanicals that we’ve unearthed. We target modern-day worries
including pollution, pigmentation, sun damage, toxins, aging and dehydration. We use recyclable
glass jars and minimize the use of plastic and unnecessary packaging to keep parcel sizes and our
environmental footprint small.
We chose the Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation because it incorporates so many modules
of learning, from creating formulas right through to launching your new business. Even since
we’ve completed the course, we’ve referred back to it as a useful resource. The course really helped
us to develop our knowledge and skills in making anhydrous skincare products, which is where
our interest lies. We also discovered some wonderful new ingredients that we have incorporated
into our current formulations.”
www.meadowskincare.co.uk
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long do I have access?

You have access to the course within the online classroom for 18 months, so plenty of time to
study. You can download much of the course material to keep for longer than that, plus you
have the option to renew your access for a small fee.
Is the course accredited?

Our courses are accredited by the CPD certification service. You can read more about our
accreditations here: www.schoolofnaturalskincare.com/accreditations-and-memberships.
How long will it take me?

It typically takes students 70-150 hours to complete the Diploma in Natural Skincare
Formulation. The amount of time it will take you will depend on how much practical
formulating you choose to do, so you may wish to spend more or less time than this. Most
students complete the course within six to 12 months. As it is a self-paced course, you can
complete it at a speed that suits your schedule.
Can I take it as a beginner?

You can certainly take the course as a beginner. In fact, it will ensure that you learn the
correct way to design and create products right from the start, so it is a great way to begin
your journey with making products!
Which teaching formats are included in the course?

See Studying with us, on page 17, for full information.
What equipment will I need?

To get started you can use some basic kitchen equipment that you use solely for the purpose
of cosmetic making. Here is a list of the equipment that you should consider using:
• Protective clothing. • A graduated measuring cylinder/

small beakers/weighing boats/
• A bain-marie or water bath for a
pipettes.
source of heat.
• Whisk/spoons/spatulas.
• Two glass Pyrex bowls or glass
beakers. • pH strips (or meter).
• A thermometer. • An electric hand whisk.
• A stick blender (immersion blender). • A heat-resistant mixing bowl.
• Digital scales. • Sufficient packaging.
We have a blog article and video that you may find useful on the equipment you
need to get started:
www.schoolofnaturalskincare.com/equipment-you-need-making-natural-skincare-
products-home
We go into much more detail about the equipment you need in the Diploma in
Natural Skincare Formulation.
If you want a more professional lab set-up you can purchase professional pieces of
equipment which we can advise you about when you join the course. This is not
necessary, however, as in many cases kitchen equipment is more than adequate.
Where can I buy my ingredients?

As part of the course you receive a comprehensive global supplier list featuring
hundreds of cosmetic suppliers, many of which deliver internationally.
We also have a smaller supplier list on our website you might want to look at in the
meantime: www.schoolofnaturalskincare.com/recipes-info/recommended-suppliers
I live in Australia/USA/India/ _______ (insert country here).

Can I still take the course?
Yes! The course is a fully online training program hosted inside an easy-to-use online
classroom. It is designed to be taken at home from anywhere in the world. The
products we make meet global quality and safety standards. We’ll provide information
on ingredient suppliers in many different countries and will guide you to the relevant
cosmetic regulations in many countries around the world, too. We have students in
over 130 countries so you’ll be joining a thriving community of global students!
Why are your prices in USD ($)?

We are an international school with students worldwide. US dollars are the most widely
recognized and accepted currency. You can check the exchange rate for your local
currency using exchange rate sites such as xe.com. Either your bank or PayPal will
exchange the enrollment fee into your local currency when you join.
Are there any assignments? Will I get a certif icate at the end?
At the end of the course there are several assignments for you to complete and
submit to us to be marked. On successful completion, your end-of-course certificate
will be issued and you will be the proud holder of our Diploma in Natural Skincare
Formulation!
OUR ACCREDITATIONS
Here at the School of Natural Skincare, we are committed to providing the highest
quality educational resources as demonstrated through our accreditations and
professional memberships.
CPD (CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL

DEVELOPMENT) CERTIFICATION SERVICE
Our courses are accredited by the CPD (Continuing

Professional Development) Certification Service. The
CPD Certification Service is the leading independent
CPD accreditation institution operating across industry
sectors. They are a globally recognized institution
and accredit courses by a number of prestigious
organizations.
The CPD Certification Service assesses each course

individually, evaluating the quality of training materials
and learning activities against the highest standards. We
are delighted to have passed the formal and impartial
CPD accreditation process carried out by the team of
experienced assessors at the CPD Certification Service.
SOCIETY OF COSMETIC SCIENTISTS
Gail, the School of Natural Skincare’s founder and co-

Director, is an Associate Member of the prestigious
Society of Cosmetic Scientists and International
Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists. The
Society of Cosmetic Scientists promotes education,
research and collaboration to advance the science
of cosmetics.
EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR

DISTANCE LEARNING
We are a member of the European Association for

Distance Learning (EADL). The EADL promotes quality
and professional and ethical standards in distance
learning. Membership is granted to organizations that
meet the EADL Quality Standards and comply with its
Code of Conduct. EADL membership is regarded as a
seal of quality.
ETHICAL COMPANY ACCREDITATION
The Ethical Company Organisation prides itself on

setting the benchmark for corporate social responsibility,
and awards Ethical Accreditation to successful candidate
companies based on a number of key factors.
We are delighted to share that the School of Natural

Skincare has achieved Ethical Accreditation every year
since 2016.
As people and as a business, we are deeply conscious

of the impact that humans can (and do) have on our
environment. To that end, we’re constantly looking for
ways to become more ethical, sustainable, natural and
organic, both in our personal and working lives.
FURTHER TRAINING
Our tutors and support staff engage in further professional development and training. To help
us ensure our courses are inclusive of all skin tones, our team recently completed training on
Treating Skin of Color run by Dija Ayodele, Founder of Black Skin Directory.
OUR AWARDS
BEST NATURAL BEAUTY EDUCATORS 2020

IN THE 2020 SOUTHERN ENTERPRISE AWARDS.
BEST ONLINE ORGANIC SKINCARE FORMULATIONS SCHOOL 2020,

ONLINE NATURAL SKINCARE FORMULATIONS SCHOOL OF THE YEAR 2021
IN THE LUX LIFE HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLNESS AWARDS.
HEALTH & BEAUTY ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR

AT THE GREAT BRITISH ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2019.
I’ve started a new life and have an

opportunity to do something for and by myself.
I’m so grateful I found the School of Natural
Skincare. You have expanded my knowledge
and helped me to be able to make excellent
products for me and my family. Thank you!
Disclaimer: This publication is provided
to you “as is”: we have taken all reasonable
care in sourcing and presenting accurate
information for this publication, but do not Simona Mohar Karakatič,
warrant that content will be error-free. We make Slovenia
no representation as to its completeness, whether
or not it is up-to-date, or that it will meet your
requirements. No responsibility is accepted for any
inaccuracies or mistakes in the information, or for any
loss or damage that may result from its use.
ENROLL NOW
© Goodness & Wonder Ltd. All content is protected by copyright law

for Goodness & Wonder Ltd (trading as School of Natural Skincare).
schoolofnaturalskincare.com

Prospectus Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Prospectus Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Prospectus Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

What does the course cover?

What does the course cover?

What qualifications or experience do the tutors have?

What qualifications or experience do the tutors have?

- THIRD EDITION -

2. WHY STUDY WITH THE SCHOOL OF NATURAL SKINCARE? 6

4. WHO IS THE DIPLOMA IN NATURAL SKINCARE FORMULATION FOR? 10

5. WHY LEARN TO FORMULATE YOUR OWN PRODUCTS? 12

6. MEET OUR TUTORS 14

9. WHAT PRODUCTS ARE COVERED IN THE DIPLOMA IN NATURAL

10. SUMMARY OF COURSE DETAILS 26

11. COURSE CURRICULUM 27

12. BONUS CLASSES 51

13. ENROLL NOW 53

15. STUDENT BRANDS 55

16. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 61

17. OUR ACCREDITATIONS 63

18. OUR AWARDS 65

FOUNDED IN 2010 BY DIRECTORS GAIL AND

WHY STUDY WITH THE

We are the world’s premier online natural skincare school,

Study with us for your own enjoyment and learning, or to

Learn cosmetic formulation from professional formulators.

Study tried-and-tested formulations. We’ll share with you real

Inclusivity and diversity are important to us. Whatever your skin

Our vibrant student community, supported by our team of

On-demand learning – enroll as soon as you are ready,

We are also a multi-award winning school. Our awards include

The School of Natural Skincare

The part I love the most about creating

Rooslana Zodek, USA

ON-DEMAND LEARNING – ENROLL AS

Here at the School of Natural Skincare we are passionate

We are truly delighted to have partnered with the Soil

We are also proud to be Rainforest Guardians. Our support to

The natural world is at the heart of all that we do at the School

ETHICAL COMPANY ACCREDITATION

WHO IS THE DIPLOMA IN NATURAL

INDIVIDUALS WITH A PASSION FOR SKINCARE

BEAUTY BRAND FOUNDERS

The Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation is the most

YOUR JOURNEY ON THE

WHY LEARN TO FORMULATE

CREATE YOUR OWN UNIQUE,

MEET OUR TUTORS

Gail founded the School of Natural Skincare in 2010 and is

Gail designed the course curriculum for the Diploma in

She presents many of the lessons, bringing together the

Gareth is an Aromatic Specialist and certified Aromatherapist,

Gareth co-taught the School’s hands-on classes in the early

TINA SVETEK, MSc

Tina is a scientist by background and completed her

NICHOLA ROBERTS, BSc MSc

Nichola is responsible for providing cosmetics expertise, creating

Nichola’s experience also ensures students are professionally

Previous to joining the School of Natural Skincare, Nichola had

Nichola is also the co-author of the book Discovering Cosmetic

CHANDNI PATEL , BSc

Chandni Patel is our Consultant Cosmetic Scientist. Chandi has