Smart skincare

An internship at specialty chemicals company Evonik SEA Pte Ltd gave Chemistry alumna (2017) Monica Dela Cruz an early headstart to her career of choice there.

Monica, whose interest in chemistry was fired during her polytechnic studies, is now a Research Associate at Evonik Skin Institute, where her work in cultivating skin models for next-generation skincare solutions blends the intricacies of science research with the fine art of skincare.

Fast forward from a time when skincare products were frills-free and basic, consumers today are leaning towards skincare that is formulated with effective natural ingredients, transparently tested and built on advanced methodologies.

The answer to today’s smart skincare lies in science, research and technology. This is where Monica’s work comes in.  She collaborates with experts in chemistry, biology and dermatology to scientifically substantiate the benefits of cosmetic ingredients, specifically through in vitro testing of biological efficacy during product development.   

She says, “There is a strong need from the cosmetics market for ingredients and products that interact positively and intelligently with the skin, the microbiome and the living world. Hence, scientifically proven benefits for cosmetic ingredients are essential for success on the market.”

Her internship did not only set her ahead in her career at a company she “feels connected to”. As someone who follows a strict skincare regimen, her work is also closely aligned with her interest in how personal care products work.

Following her internship, Monica rejoined Evonik in 2019 where she gained hands-on exposure to materials chemistry and polymer science in the additive manufacturing team developing fully formulated high performance photopolymer resin for end-use applications. Her chemistry studies gave her a good foundation of different branches of chemistry; she also gained understanding of cell cultures in her life science courses – competencies which enabled her to transition to her current role.

She says, “A research career is fulfilling as I am part of the process to come up with solutions. I enjoy being in a team that makes essential contributions to many products we use on a daily basis.”