The Science of Cosmetics: What’s in the Bottle (and why)? (Spring Course)

Wagner Free Institute of Science

SPRING COURSE: CHEMISTRY SERIES  - Free course with Professor Thomas Twardowski at the Parkway Central Library.

Parkway Central Library

Evening Courses

The Wagner's evening courses are the oldest, free adult education program in the country! Courses are ordinarily held off-site at a variety of locations in Philly to make them accessible to a wide audience. Since 2020, they have been held over Zoom.

<h2>WAGNER FREE INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE – SPRING 2024 COURSE: CHEMISTRY SERIES</h2><h2>The Science of Cosmetics: What’s in the Bottle (and why)? with Professor Thomas Twardowski</h2>6 Thursdays from March 21 - May 2, 2024. 6:30 - 8:00 PMLocation: This course will be held at the Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia.This course requires pre-registration. Separate registration is required for each student. Sign up here or call 215-763-6529 x14 for assistance. <h2>Course Description</h2>This class will explore the composition of cosmetics, which are used by everybody. Moisturizers, sun blocks, haircare products, medicated ointments, beauty aids and topically applied materials are all important consumer products. From ancient times to the modern day, cosmetics have a rich history of effective use. Learn more about these fascinating products and what they do and why. Each week will explore the chemistry and physics of a different type of cosmetic. <h2>Course Schedule</h2>1. Thursday, March 21, 2024 –The Formulation of Emulsions: MoisturizerThis class will explore the components typical of a cosmetic and learn about how they combine to form a complex mixture called an emulsion. We’ll investigate the ingredients of a moisturizer to understand what practical role they serve in the bottle and on our skin.2. Thursday, April 4, 2024 – Oils and Surfactants: CleanserIn addition to water, most cosmetics include oils and surfactants. Learn about types and sources of oils, and what a surfactant is and does. Together, these two components will also help us understand cleansers.3. Thursday, April 11, 2024 – Pigments and Interactions with Light: Eye Shadow and ConcealerMany cosmetics are designed to enhance or modify appearance through pigments, stains, and dyes. We’ll explore the interactions between light and surfaces, especially with pigment particles. The behavior of eye shadows and concealers will serve as case studies.4. Thursday, April 18, 2024 – Manipulating Surface Properties: Nail Polish and ConditionerCosmetics can make our skin and hair more durable, as well as more attractive. We’ll explore the mechanical behavior of skin and hair and how cosmetics enhance the properties. The components of nail polish and conditioner will be highlighted.5. Thursday, April 25, 2024 – Evaporation, Concentration, and Diffusion: Perfumes and DeodorantCosmetics can block perspiration or mask odor. We’ll learn about sweat and the physical phenomena behind the release of odor. The difference between odor blockers and maskers will be explored through perfume and deodorant.6. Thursday, May 2, 2024 – Regulation in the Cosmetic Industry: Retinoic AcidThe cosmetic industry is subject to government regulation in the US. We’ll explore how the rules are applied for drugs and other active ingredients in cosmetics, such as retinoic acid in face creams. <h2>Suggested Reading</h2>There is no textbook for this course. Readings will be provided, where applicable <h2>About the Professor</h2>Dr. Thomas Twardowski, Ph.D. is a Teaching Professor at Thomas Jefferson University for the Physics and Mathematics programs. He has presented at First Saturday programs for the Wagner Free Institute, most recently The Science of Sticky and The Chemistry of Clean. His research focuses on synthetic analogs to complex biological fluids and surfaces, such as sebum, pleural fluid, and epithelium. He is also actively developing a language-centered approach to teaching physics and math, exploring deliberately teaching the ways scientists quantify meaning from real-world situations and constructing meaning in science communication. <h2>FAQs</h2>What is the cost?Wagner courses are free; donations are encouraged!Are there minimum age requirements to enter the course?The adult lecture courses are offered on an introductory college level. They are open to anyone seeking an introduction to various areas of the sciences as well as those familiar with the subjects who wish to broaden and update their knowledge. The courses also provide an excellent opportunity for motivated junior high and high school students to supplement their current science courses and to help prepare them for further study in these fields at a college level. The courses are appropriate as well for teachers seeking to expand their knowledge.What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the course?The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society is located at the northwest corner of 20th and Arch Streets in Center City. It is convenient to multiple public transportation routes. The closest trolley stop is at 22nd and Market Streets. The location is also accessible via multiple bus routes and regional rail lines. There is on-street parking on the surrounding blocks, and multiple paid parking options, including a lot at 19th and Arch Streets.Is the building wheelchair accessible?YesHow can I contact the organizer with any questions?Click the "Contact the Organizer" link, email communications@wagnerfreeinstitute.org, or call 215-763-6529 x14. Images from top to bottom: An assortment of cosmetics, photo by Aleksandra Brzezińska, Wikimedia Commons. Advertisement for "Hazeline Snow," Wellcome Foundation Archives, Wikimedia Commons.