As President of the 35th IFSCC Congress, what are your expectations?
Dr. Christine Lafforgue – I think the aim is to demonstrate that cosmetics are intimately linked to the biological function of the skin, hair etc. and therefore to science. However, they have many specific features – texture, color – which are the source of great complexity.
So we’re going to explore this diversity and complexity from every angle – biological, chemical, physical, AI – and discover the latest research methods and protocols that enable us to move forward, to perfect formulations in the service of intelligent cosmetics, as it were, in their ability to reconcile the biological well-being of the skin and/or hair with overall well-being.
The speakers in the three unconventional morning sessions will help us to think “out of the box”.
A total of 68 podiums and 650 posters are planned. You received almost 1,200 abstracts. How are they distributed?
Dr. Christine Lafforgue – All regions of the world are represented, demonstrating the dynamism of global cosmetics research.
We also note that several proposals are the fruit of international collaboration, between players from different backgrounds. What is also striking is the major contribution of France in the EMEA zone. It remains #1 in research proposals in Europe, while Brazil is very dynamic in the Americas, as are China, Japan and Indonesia in Asia.
How is the selection made?
Dr. Christine Lafforgue – They are three main criteria: Novelty and originality, Impact on cosmetic industry, and Scientific contribution.
The first 68 abstracts will be awarded a podium place, while the 650 following abstracts will be offered a poster, which they are free to accept or reject. In the end, and once anonymity has been lifted, arbitration may be possible to ensure fairness in representation.
The three main themes are skin and hair health, holistic sciences and diversity and personalization. How did you define them?
Dr. Christine Lafforgue – We did a survey of publications in cosmetology and identified the subjects that systematically emerged. We deliberately chose a fairly broad definition for each of the themes, since after all, the aim is to consider the global work on each of them in an open and in-depth way.
When we talk about longevity, for example, we are talking about molecular mechanisms and/or biological research into active ingredients that are of interest a priori, and whose benefits have yet to be fully demonstrated, thanks in particular to proteomics. The conference deals with the science of cosmetology, well upstream of cosmetics, but at its service. It’s a fact that cosmetics are becoming more and more effective, objectifiable and objectivated thanks to science, which backs up claims with scientific arguments.
What exactly do we mean by holistic sciences?
Dr. Christine Lafforgue – Research in cosmetology must be considered as a whole, not only with regard to the cosmetic product itself, but also with regard to the context in which it is used, or the practices that surround or, that it supports.
Aesthetic medicine, for example, deploys a kind of protocol before and after surgery, for treatment that is both targeted and general for the individual. Well-being, beyond the specific, becomes essential. Cosmetics are inspired by this and cosmetological science studies the mechanisms.
What prospects do they open up?
Dr. Christine Lafforgue – The presentation of work on these three major themes reveals the mechanisms and interactions that govern them on a scientific level, with ever greater precision, for greater performance and safety. This is essential. They lead us to understand the limits of certain mechanisms, and therefore to formulate cosmetic products that are more accurate and better targeted, with a well-controlled scope of action.
What do you want to say to cosmeticians?
Dr. Christine Lafforgue – This 35th congress in Cannes is a great opportunity in terms of accessibility for all those involved in the science of cosmetology in Europe in particular, bearing in mind that this is a global event, with scientists from Asia and America taking part. The last one was in Brazil, and the next one will be in Australia ! In addition, the congress will provide ample opportunity for peer-to-peer exchanges, with a view to networking and identifying possible synergies.
The IFSCC is a global scientific federation with nearly 16,000 members, including biologists, chemists, physicists, formulators, academic and industrial scientists of the highest calibre. This is a rare opportunity not to be missed, and in a magnificent setting.
More information about IFSCC 2025 available at: ifscc2025.com/en/