As the cosmetics and personal care industries continue to evolve at a rapid pace, scientific advancements and industry collaboration have never been more crucial. At the helm of the New York Society of Cosmetic Chemists (NYSCC) in 2025 is John Carola, whose vision, Nexus of Science and Beauty, reflects the organization’s commitment to bridging cutting-edge research with real-world innovation.
In this exclusive Q&A, Carola shares his insights on NYSCC’s priorities, the latest industry trends, and what members and attendees can expect from the highly anticipated Suppliers’ Day 2025.
CDU: As the 2025 chair of the NYSCC, what is your overarching vision for the organization this year?
John Carola: My vision is centered around our theme, ‘Nexus of Science and Beauty.’ This encapsulates our mission to bridge cutting-edge scientific advancements with the evolving needs of the beauty and personal care industry.
We aim to foster deeper collaboration between researchers, formulators, and brands, as well as our members, to drive innovation in sustainable, effective, and consumer-centric solutions. Through educational initiatives, networking opportunities, and global partnerships, we will position NYSCC as the premier hub for knowledge-sharing and progress in cosmetic science.
CDU: What are your top priorities for the NYSCC this year? Are there any new initiatives or goals you are particularly excited about?
John Carola: Our key priorities include expanding educational programs, increasing membership engagement, and championing cosmetic science.
I have been focusing on how NYSCC is the nexus for its phenomenal membership by connecting individuals, creating networking opportunities, and fostering partnerships and new collaborations. NYSCC is an incredible connector that brings hundreds of individuals together and advances cosmetic science.
New membership initiatives include:
- MVP (Member Volunteer Pathway) – a monthly program that spotlights the dedication and contributions of our incredible members
- Exclusive gift boxes for members only at select Monthly Educational Meetings
- Select educational programs that are free to SCC members to attend
The NYSCC internship program is also back providing college students with a paid 8-10 week work experience with companies in the beauty and personal care industries.
We also launched a new NYSCC website, providing a fresh face and an exciting hub for connection and innovation.
Additionally, we are strengthening NYSCC’s global presence by collaborating with international scientific organizations and professional associations to ensure our members have access to the latest innovations, regulatory insights, and professional development tools.
CDU: The NYSCC is well known for its Suppliers’ Day event. What can attendees expect from Suppliers’ Day 2025, and how will it differ from previous years?
John Carola: Suppliers’ Day, June 3-4, 2025, will truly embody the ‘Nexus of Science and Beauty’ by featuring a dynamic mix of scientific innovation, sustainability, and consumer-driven trends.
Not only is the show taking place in June this year, but we are also moving upstairs in the Javits Center to the expansive third level of the Javits Center. The largest events in New York encompass this space.
Educational content will be available for unmatched learning, while special events, activations, sold-out exhibit floors, and core specialty areas will ensure attendees’ engagement from start to finish. These include INDIE 360° Pavilion, The Inspiration Hive, Technical Poster Presentations, as well as the Main Stage Theater with key presentations including Discover Sustainability and World of Chemistry.
Suppliers’ Day will also offer unique programs organized by our Scientific Committee on DermaBeauty and Neuroscience, and many more crafted in collaboration with leading industry associations, including: ACI, CACPA, CEW, CIBS, CPA, EFfCI, IBA, IKW, PCPC and more!
Suppliers’ Day in 2025 will be an unmatched week of beauty for the industry by the industry.
CDU: What are some of the biggest trends you see shaping the cosmetics and personal care industries in 2025?
John Carola: We are seeing a convergence of science, technology, and consumer expectations driving key industry trends. The shift toward biotech-driven beauty, AI-powered formulation, and sustainable innovation is accelerating.
Personalization is another major trend, as advancements in skin microbiome research and AI diagnostics enable brands to create highly tailored solutions.
Additionally, regulatory changes and consumer demand are pushing for more transparency in ingredient sourcing, ethical manufacturing, and environmentally responsible packaging. At NYSCC, we are at the forefront of these developments, ensuring our members have access to the latest research and industry insights.
CDU: How do you see scientific innovation driving product development? Are there specific areas, like biotechnology or AI, that you expect to have a significant impact?
John Carola: Scientific innovation is transforming the way beauty products are developed, tested, and marketed. AI is revolutionizing formulation by predicting ingredient interactions and optimizing stability, significantly reducing time-to-market.
Biotechnology is also playing a critical role, with lab-grown ingredients, bio-fermentation processes, and sustainable alternatives to traditional raw materials gaining traction. These advancements align perfectly with our Nexus of Science and Beauty theme, highlighting the seamless integration of technology and nature.
At NYSCC, we are committed to fostering discussions around these innovations, ensuring that professionals across the supply chain are prepared to harness their potential for creating safer, more effective, and sustainable products.
CDU: How do you see NYSCC supporting its members in navigating regulatory challenges?
John Carola: Regulatory landscapes are evolving rapidly, and NYSCC is committed to ensuring our members stay ahead of these changes. Through dedicated educational sessions, expert-led panels, and collaborations with regulatory bodies, we provide insights on compliance, ingredient safety, and global standards.
Suppliers’ Day 2025 will feature expanded programming on regulatory affairs, helping industry professionals navigate challenges related to sustainability claims, transparency, and evolving legislation.
CDU: How important is collaboration across different sectors of the industry—suppliers, manufacturers, retailers, etc.—to driving innovation in 2025?
John Carola: Collaboration is essential for meaningful innovation. The beauty and personal care industry thrives when suppliers, manufacturers, retailers, and formulators work together to integrate science, sustainability, and consumer trends.
The Nexus of Science and Beauty is all about fostering these connections, ensuring that groundbreaking research and innovations translate into real-world applications.
In 2025, we’re focused on strengthening cross-sector partnerships that accelerate the development of high-performance, eco-friendly, and consumer-driven solutions. This will be evident throughout Suppliers’ Day in June and especially embodied in the INDIE 360° Pavilion and educational program at the event.
CDU: What role do you see NYSCC playing in fostering these industry collaborations?
John Carola: NYSCC serves as a bridge between different sectors of the beauty and personal care industry. Through networking events, knowledge-sharing platforms, and our flagship Suppliers’ Day, we create opportunities for professionals across the supply chain to connect and collaborate.
We are expanding mentorship programs, innovation forums, and global partnerships to ensure our members as well as students and young professionals have access to the latest advancements and business opportunities.
CDU: What partnerships or educational initiatives are in the works that members can look forward to in the coming year?
John Carola: In 2025, we are enhancing our monthly educational offerings, curated by our Scientific Committee, with expansion into rheology, pet care product development, and the sensory realm, as well as investigating partnerships with related associations within those sectors. These unique areas of focus will broaden NYSCC’s reach and influence and contribute to overall product development success.
We’re also expanding collaborations with our fellow chapters, leading scientific and industry organizations, as well as, universities through our newly-formed outreach committee. We aim to ensure our members have the knowledge and resources needed to stay at the forefront of industry advancements.
Suppliers’ Day will also feature new experiential learning zones where attendees can engage with emerging technologies and innovations firsthand. A key focus will be on recognizing the science and chemistry that leads to innovation – and our many awards programs at Suppliers’ Day will certainly celebrate this focus!
