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Samantha Anderson

Senior Formulation Scientist

Aveda Corporation/ Estee Lauder Companies

Member Since: 2005

Chapter: Twin Cities

What made you pursue a career in the cosmetics/personal care industry?

Upon entering College, I didn’t really know what I wanted to be when I grew up. As a kid I always wanted to become a Veterinarian. However, the loss of my family dog when I was young made me realize that my dream job involved aspects that were much harder for me to deal with than I expected. So, not knowing what I wanted my career to be, I focused on Biology and Chemistry courses. My first few jobs out of college utilized my degree but they were not what I considered inspiring or exciting. I continued job searching until I came across an open position in Cosmetic Chemistry/Formulation Development within R&D. I was immediately excited and it was really the first time that I was exposed to this profession. Thirteen years later, I’m still excited to be working within the industry and learning new things every day!

What advice would you give your younger self who is just starting out in the industry? 
My advice to my younger self, just out of College, would be to step outside of your comfort zone and try out even the not so fun jobs. It just might lead you to something exciting!
 

What is the favorite part of your job?

You know the saying “Every day you learn something new?” Well, that’s really what I like about my job. There are so many things to learn about the industry and technology is always changing. I love working from concept to product prototypes to testing and finally seeing your product on the shelf! My days are never boring!

What has been your most recent professional accomplishment?

My most recent accomplishment has been the work that I’ve done in the past two years developing an entire line for Professional Skin Care. I found how complicated professional facial protocols can be and how you have to develop each product so that they will work together in a facial. Products that are layered really have to work well together and not just on their own.

How has membership in the SCC been of value to you?

I have met so many new people and have learned many new things as a member of the SCC. When you are immersed in a work project for a long time, sometimes it is hard to look outside of that. SCC meetings have given me an outlet to step away from my projects at work for a while and look at other aspects of the industry. I’ve found that that little break can really help open up my creativity and get past challenges that I may be facing. The meetings are a perfect combination of networking and continuous learning.

What is a fun fact about yourself, outside of the SCC and your professional life?

I love photography and capturing the moment. Being a mom of a two year old has now given me endless moments to snap!