High schoolers find the magic in cosmetic chemistry at UC
UC's James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy introduces area high school students to the science behind how perfumes and colors are made
The University of Cincinnati’s fifth annual Magic of Cosmetic Science enrichment program, hosted by UC’s James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy on April 6, enabled 35 middle and high school students to have hands-on learning experiences to gain insight as to how research labs formulate creams, shampoos, gels, lip balms and body washes.
2019 Magic of Cosmetic Science workshop: students, faculty and volunteers
The program, established in 2015, is held in laboratories on UC’s medical campus; and this year’s event, "Gels, Perfumes and Colors", was a collaboration with Breakthrough Cincinnati, part of the Cincinnati Public School (CPS) Strong initiative, a goal to to increase UC graduates from CPS schools, says Karen Henry, associate director of admissions at Winkle College. CPS Strong is also part of UC's strategic direction, Next Lives Here.
Colloidal chemist Harshita Kumari, PhD, working with beakers to show a chemical reaction between two compounds.
"Science is a magic that works and astonishes young minds," says the workshop's originator, colloidal cosmetic chemist Harshita Kumari, PhD, an assistant professor in pharmaceutical sciences at the college.
In addition to a chemistry lesson, Kumari says students had the opportunity to interact with a Procter & Gamble scientist, Ed Smith, who discussed the potential for careers in cosmetic sciences.
"This was the best year yet! We were able to maintain our record number of student registrants and increase the number of volunteers with over 55 students and volunteers which made the program even more fun and exciting,” says Henry, noting that getting teenagers excited about science is a magical experience in and of itself.
And positive feedback indicates that the workshop continues to be a formula for success.
Says one grateful parent: “Just wanted to let you know how informative and fun the workshop was. My daughter learned a lot about cosmetic chemistry and was amazed of how the field is so large and encompasses to much more than she expected.”
Photos by Leigh Taylor/UC Creative Services
Related Stories
Discovery Amplified expands research, teaching support across A&S
February 19, 2026
The College of Arts & Sciences is investing in a bold new vision for research, teaching and creative activity through Discovery Amplified. This initiative was launched through the Dean’s Office in August 2024, and is expanding its role as a central hub for scholarly activity and research support within the Arts & Sciences (A&S) community. Designed to serve faculty, students, and staff, the initiative aims to strengthen research productivity, foster collaboration, and enhance teaching innovation. Discovery Amplified was created to help scholars define and pursue academic goals while increasing the reach and impact of A&S research and training programs locally and globally. The unit provides tailored guidance, connects collaborators, and supports strategic partnerships that promote innovation across disciplines.
UC Digital Futures and Cincinnati Fire Museum launch educational video game
February 17, 2026
A new collaboration between the University of Cincinnati's Digital Performance Lab (DP Lab), CCM Acting, UC's School of Information Technology, and the Cincinnati Fire Museum is using gaming technology to bring essential fire safety education to children. The project titled Fire Escape is an interactive video game designed to teach K-12 students how to respond safely during a house fire. It was developed through Digital Futures research support, student game development, and guidance from local fire safety professionals.
Designing Access
February 17, 2026
Faculty-led collaboration brings typography, wayfinding and public input to transit infrastructure.