The Journal of Cosmetic Science (JCS), the Society of Cosmetic Chemists' (SCC) official digital publication, is celebrating its 75th anniversary with a special focus on sustainability. As of March 10, 2025, the latest edition—Volume 75, Issue No. 5—is available as an open-access resource, highlighting the industry's shift towards sustainable practices. This commemorative issue is reportedly part of a broader initiative, with additional issues slated to cover microbiome science and a second installment on sustainability.
Erica L. O’Grady, CAE, the CEO of SCC, emphasizes the importance of sustainability for the future of the cosmetics industry. These editions aim to encourage researchers, industry professionals, and consumers to engage with sustainability as a fundamental industry tenet.
The special issues compile insights curated by JCS technical editor Robert Lochhead, PhD, from industry leaders, offering a comprehensive look at sustainability through personal, community, and environmental lenses. At the personal level, consumers are urged to make educated choices about products that align with their health and ethical values. Community-level discussions focus on fair trade and social equity, supporting sustainable benefits for raw material-producing communities. Globally, the articles delve into reducing the ecological footprint of cosmetics through, among other efforts, responsible sourcing and reducing emissions.
As Lochhead notes, the goal is to develop products that support human and environmental health without disruption. By focusing on these sustainability aspects, the Journal of Cosmetic Science provides a valuable resource for the industry and promotes action toward a more responsible and sustainable future.
