Formulation of Natural Products and Cosmeceuticals (PHAY0038)

This module will focus on the formulation principles to be considered in the design and development of phytochemicals as cosmeceutical products. The module will consider the basic skin structure/function and the design of skin-targeted formulations. Students will also cover the basic principles of colloidal systems, widely used for the preparation of topical products. Laboratory work will be carried out in small groups and will focus on the development of topical products suitable for administration to skin. Quality control and regulatory framework concepts will be discussed. The main focus of learning will be both theoretical and practical concepts of formulation development.

List of lectures:

Introduction to formulation of natural products and cosmeceuticals
 Biology of skin & topical delivery
 Herbal drugs and herbal preparations
 Classical topical formulations
 Advanced dermal drug delivery systems
 R&D aspects of formulation development
 Quality control and regulatory aspects
 Workshop 1: How to communicate in the cosmetic world
 Workshop 2: Topical inflammation and antioxidants
 Workshop 3: Melanogenesis and ageing
 Practical session1: Formulation of herbal drugs and herbal preparations into herbal medicinal products and cosmetics, liposome and micelles
 Practical session 2: Nanoformulation of herbal based cosmetics (emulsions&creams)
 Practical session 3: Herbal based cosmetics

Under supervision, you will carry out original experimental and/or modelling work and you will write a 3000 word written account of your work. You are required...

Undergraduate Research Project in Natural Sciences (NSCI0026)

Under supervision, you will carry out original experimental and/or modelling work and you will write a 3000 word written account of your work. You are required to submit your own project proposal, which must be counter-signed by a member of staff who will act as project supervisor. Projects that demonstrate an interdisciplinary focus are especially encouraged.

Students who complete this project will learn to

Describe and comment upon aspects of current scientific research and advanced scholarship
 Deploy accurately established techniques of analysis and enquiry within a science-related discipline
 Plan and carry out a research project independently and assess the significance of outcomes
 Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems in complex and unpredictable situations, and exercise the independent learning ability, initiative and personal responsibility required for continuing development as a professional
Enrolment may be limited. You are advised to start the application process well before the start of the term and to plan for an alternative module in the case that no suitable project is available.