Kiara Brumfield
Abstract
Formulating an amazing product is the goal of every chemist, it takes more than one trial/prototype to perfect the performance. True innovation is all about creating a testing protocol that’s consumer relevant. Evaluating products in ways that translate to real world consumer use is essential for ensuring performance, efficacy, and relevance in today’s fast-evolving beauty landscape. As trends shift rapidly and social media drives consumer expectations, cosmetic chemists must stay informed and adaptable to meet the growing demand for inclusive, high-performing hair care.
With the increasing number of brands now formulating hair types 3 and 4, it's critical to understand the unique needs of all hair types, from 1 through 4. However, many formulators lack access to in-house salons or real-time application environments. This demonstration bridges that gap by equipping members of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists-Midwest with practical methods to test hair care prototypes drawing from both cosmetology expertise and consumer insights. Attendees will gain hands-on strategies for assessing shampoos, conditioners, and styling products across diverse hair types, ensuring their formulations truly meet the needs of a broad and inclusive market.
Bio
Kiara Brumfield is a Chicago-based chemist, licensed cosmetologist, and S.T.E.M. mentor. A proud alumna of Howard University in Washington, D.C., Kiara earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2014. At the time, she was unaware of the career paths in science that could also align with her passion for hair and beauty. After graduation, she returned to Chicago and enrolled in cosmetology school to explore that passion further. While pursuing her license and discovering her professional identity, Kiara was recruited by a chemical manufacturing company in the personal care industry. It was there that she began to see the potential to merge beauty and chemistry into one career. She loved working as a chemist and began seeking roles that would allow her to combine both of her passions. This journey led her to her current role at RNA, where she works as an R&D Formulation Chemist and Licensed Cosmetologist. In this position, she formulates products, manages claims substantiation, and evaluates product performance in the company's salon to create high-performing hair care solutions. In her spare time, Kiara enjoys volunteering and speaking at events to introduce young people to the world of cosmetic science. She hopes her presence in both her community and the industry will inspire the next generation to pursue careers in science.