Rebecca McCarthy

Cosmetic Scientist with experience in formulation, product development, and regulatory compliance across skincare and personal care. Experienced in independently developing formulations from concept to completion, working directly with clients to translate product vision into commercially viable products. Strong background in ingredient selection, stability testing, and troubleshooting formulations, with hands-on experience supporting products from lab scale through to manufacturing.

Adept at working cross-functionally and managing multiple projects within fast-paced environments. Passionate about innovation, product performance, and creating formulations that align with both consumer needs and regulatory standards.

Cosmetic Scientist & Independent Consultant at Self-employed (2024-11 – Present)

Lead end-to-end formulation development for cosmetic and personal care products, from concept to final formulation
Work directly with clients to translate brand vision, target market, and product positioning into commercially viable formulations
Select and source functional ingredients aligned with performance, safety, and regulatory requirements (EU/FDA)
Provide technical guidance on formulation strategy, ingredient compatibility, and product development processes
Manage stability testing, safety assessments, and performance optimisation of formulations
Troubleshoot and refine formulations to improve texture, stability, and overall product performance
Advice on manufacturing considerations and scalability of formulations
Provide expert advice on ingredient combinations, product types, and manufacturing processe
Address any issues or challenges the client faces during the product development cycle, such as issues with texture, stability, or performance
Stay up to date with emerging ingredients, formulation trends, and industry innovations

Cosmetic Development Chemist at Facetheory (2024-06 – 2024-10)

Managing projects to deliver NPD & EPD within quality, and time constraints.
Develop cosmetic products within cross-funtional technical teams, contributing to NPD & EPD delivery, conduct stability testing and report the findings.
To manage Product information Files and registration on relevant portals
To inspect & release finished product batches
Prepare Lab batches to track performance and stability, conduct necessary testing and collect technical information. Make critical observations reports results
Review and submit relevant batch/product documentation/information prior to product release
Troubleshooting issues arising with formulations at all stages from Lab to manufacturing
To ensure that all assigned work is delivered in a timely manner and that all associated requirements, objectives and targets are fully met
To ensure good communication and appropriate involvement of other technical functions, production, and customer service teams
To liase with plant personnel and provide technical support and assistance to resolve production and quality issues
Ensuring adhere to ISO 22716, 9001 and relevant company quality practices
To maintain general housekeeping of the laboratory and associated area

Junior Cosmetic Development Chemist at Facetheory (2023-05 – 2024-06)

Junior Regulatory Officer at Give Back Beauty (2022-08)

Requesting Information from Manufacturing, Supply Chain
Filling in the system with information and daily updates
Daily Liaising with Manufacturing, Supply Chain and other in-house departments
Correctly store codes, names and technical documents in the company system
Ensuring to keep up with new product developments and to request the relevant technical documentations
Screening of banned substances in concentrates and finished products

Lab Technician at Potter and Moore Innovations (2021-12 – 2022-06)

Routine testing of raw material products.
Routine testing and correction of bulk products.
Assisting / troubleshooting problems in the factory relating to bulk product.
To monitor and review stability and compatibility tests.
To update reports arising from stability reviews.
Re-formulate products, as and when required, within agreed timescale.
To assist in the validation work on new formulations.
To carry out routine checks on specific laboratory equipment. i.e. pH meter calibration.
To always ensure excellent housekeeping.

Laboratory Technician at Reabrook Health & Beauty (2019-07 – 2019-11)

To participate in the development and evaluation of new cosmetic products and raw materials as directed within the Health & Beauty Team.
To set QC parameters for new formulations.
To participate in the evaluation and modification of existing products as directed.
To carry out analysis of competitor products as required.
To ensure compliance with SOPs.
To maintain accurate, comprehensive records of all work carried out in the laboratory books provided. To ensure all data is correctly and accurately recorded, project reports are completed and recorded on an appropriate system.
To provide technical support to production for new products.
To comply with all company policies and procedures and ensure that all team members also conform to company policies and procedures and ensure measures are taken to maintain all company accreditations.
Carry out relevant testing including stability testing, as well as viscosity and pH testing.

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