The IFSCC Congress is a pivotal event in the world of cosmetology. Let’s delve into what makes this year’s congress particularly significant.
The theme “The Future is Science” was chosen because cosmetics are essential products whose mechanisms of action, formulation, and benefits are rooted in today’s science for tomorrow’s advancements.”
EURO COSMETICS:
Christine, please tell us about yourself and your background.
Christine Lafforgue:
I’m an Associate Professor in Dermopharmacology & Cosmetology at the University of Paris Saclay, with a parallel appointment at the University of Quebec in Chicoutimi, Canada. My career, spanning from the Faculty of Pharmacy in Lyon to my current roles, focuses on skin/product interaction, at an international level. I advise French and European agencies on percutaneous absorption and actively connect dermatologists and the cosmetic industry through GERDA, addressing allergy concerns. With over 50 publications and patents, I’m passionate about teaching cosmetology science to students globally, including through the IFSCC worldwide learning program. I was also President of the Société Française de Cosmétologie (SFC) from 2018 to 2021 and am now an Honorary President, elected to preside over the IFSCC Congress 2025 in Cannes.
EURO COSMETICS:
What important priorities did you set as this year’s congress president?
Christine Lafforgue:
My paramount priority was to make the IFSCC 2025 Congress appealing with rich and original content, enhancing social networking also, with the support of the Executive Committee, the Organizing Board and Scientific Board. The Scientific Board evaluated nearly 1,200 submissions, to select 68 oral presentations and 900 posters, prioritizing novelty, originality, impact on the cosmetics industry, and scientific contribution. We have invited speakers that are recognized for their expertise and communication skills. A key focus was to push participants beyond their comfort zones. We designed the program to provide new keys to innovation through cross-fertilization with scientific fields outside cosmetology, notably with “Out of the Box” sessions and a round table featuring experts in space research. The selection process itself was a priority for rigor and impartiality: we designed a meticulous approach to guarantee the very high quality of the selected abstracts and the entire scientific program, fostering a unique opportunity for global networking and peer exchanges.
EURO COSMETICS:
This year the congress will take place in Cannes under the theme “The Future is Science”. Why this theme and what is the special focus of the congress?
Christine Lafforgue:
The theme “The Future is Science” was chosen because cosmetics are essential products whose mechanisms of action, formulation, and benefits are rooted in today’s science for tomorrow’s advancements. The special focus is to explore cosmetology in all its dimensions, deepening the understanding of the intimate link between cosmetics and biological functions, and analysing complexities from biological, chemical, physical, and artificial intelligence angles. This includes developing ‘intelligent’ cosmetics that reconcile biological well-being with overall well-being, naturally integrating socially, societally, and environmentally responsible approaches.
EURO COSMETICS:
And what are the main topics this year?
Christine Lafforgue:
The main topics identified from the submitted abstracts include longevity and anti-aging (the most prominent), photoprotection, neuroscience, and the microbiome. There is a notable rise in research on neuroscience, cognitive science, sensoriality, and emotions. Additionally, Sustainability has become a cross-cutting issue that is essential for innovation. On Day 1, emerging research trends in skin and hair health, along with the influence of cognitive science and neuroscience on consumer choices and sensoriality, will be explored. Day 2 will focus on the microbiome and longevity from a holistic perspective. Day 3 will examine how cosmetics are adapting to consumer diversity worldwide, and the role of new beauty technologies in personalization.
EURO COSMETICS:
In which areas do you expect new impulses at the congress?
Christine Lafforgue:
New impulses are expected from the growing integration of AI in cosmetic research, new discoveries related to the effects of aging, studies on the relationships between different tissues (skin, nervous, vascular systems), the development of new evaluation methods and in vitro skin study models, numerous new ingredients derived from green science and biotechnology, and increasing research into understanding sensations and and emotions. These will lead to a better understanding of consumers, identification of new targets, innovative approaches, and more effective technologies, ultimately embracing a concept of overall health and well-being beyond “beauty” performance.
EURO COSMETICS:
What social events will take place during the congress?
Christine Lafforgue:
Three social events will be held during the congress to foster global networking in a festive and convivial atmosphere. These include an Opening Ceremony, a Special Evening, and the Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony. Each has been designed to strengthen connections among cosmetologists, whether from academia or industry. These moments are just as important as the scientific sessions, as they help create the relationships that drive innovation.
EURO COSMETICS:
Which participants are expected and what can you recommend to them?
Christine Lafforgue:
We anticipate a strong turnout of top-level biologists, chemists, physicists, formulators, academics, and industry experts from around the world, from 14 countries. The geographic diversity is notable: 10% of podium speakers will come from the Americas, 40% from Asia, and 50% from Europe and Africa. Having an abstract selected for presentation is already a mark of quality and visibility. In addition, the IFSCC Congress offers prestigious recognition through three IFSCC Awards and highlights the top 10 Podium and Poster presentations, fostering new scientific collaborations and supporting future product launches. To make to most of the event, participants are strongly encouraged to share their own results and technological innovations with their peers. This is a unique opportunity to explore new avenues and remain at the forefront of scientific progress.
EURO COSMETICS:
Christine, Thank you for your time and valuable insights
