About poems from the lab
Each formulation is a composition. Each ingredient is a word. Each formula begins as a draft made by hand. Creating new phrases and blending old ones to build innovative arrangements. Each version rewritten and born anew with revisions. A step forward? A shift? A strengthening of feelings evoked?
Our formulations are informed by multiple disciplines; not just the chemistry of cosmetics, but also food science, process engineering, biochemistry, photobiology, and organizational behavior. Bringing in the expertise and innovations of professors and researchers in diverse fields allows us to explore confidently and freely.
Cosmetic formulation is as much an art as it is a science – there is no line that divides the two. While science may inform and form the architecture, the heart and beauty reside in the person who will use it and comes to love and appreciate the work.
Our plan is to start small, to be intentional and thorough, to be passionate and personal. Growing with those principles of care and conscientiousness in mind.
"I realized that skincare and beauty was a great way to introduce people to science. I believe anyone can become a young scientist with a little spark of interest.
These formulas are for all the young scientists out there."
— Stephen Ko, formulator.
Stephen writes about interesting topics inside beauty and science.
We acknowledge and sustain the lands and waters that are home to many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Michi Saagiig, the Haudenosaunee, the Wendake-Nionwentsïo, the Anishinabek ᐊᓂᔑᓈᐯᐗᑭ, and the Chippewa of the Thames.
We hear and honour the voices of the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples.