May Meeting Invite: Navigating Raw Material Validation in an Unpredictable Market

Thursday, May 14th, 2026

The St. Louis Chapter of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists is excited to announce our upcoming May 14th technical meeting. In an era defined by supply chain volatility and evolving regulations, finding the right ingredients is more complex than ever. Join us for an evening of networking and expert insights into the practicalities of raw material sourcing.

Presentation: “When INCI and CAS Number Aren’t Enough: Practical Strategies for Sourcing and Validating Alternate Raw Materials”

While two ingredients may look identical on a specification sheet or share the same INCI name, their performance in a finished formula can vary drastically. This session will provide a stepwise framework for identifying and validating alternate raw materials, specifically focusing on:

Qualitative reviews of technical data sheets.
Bench-scale screening methods.
Real-world formulation effects, including impacts on foam profile, viscosity, pH stability, and sensory performance.
Navigating alternate suppliers within USEPA regulated environments.

SCC Non-Member Registration ($50.00): PAY NOW

SCC Member Registration ($30.00): PAY NOW

Student Registration ($20.00): PAY NOW

Location: Cosmos Corporation; 601 Pearl Drive, Saint Peters, Missouri 63376

Schedule:

3:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Appetizers & Networking

4:00 pm: Technical Presentation

Questions? Email SCC board secretary Dale Sanson.

Abstract

Supply chain volatility, cost pressures, regulatory changes, and innovation demands continue to drive the need for alternate raw materials in formulations. While ingredients may appear equivalent on paper, sharing INCI names, specifications, and chemical structures, their in-formula performance can vary significantly. In addition, active ingredients and coformulants by alternate suppliers in products regulated under the USEPA regulated environment will be presented.

This presentation outlines a practical, stepwise framework for identifying, sourcing, and validating alternate raw materials. We will discuss qualitative review of technical data sheets and specifications, bench-scale screening methods, and demonstrations of how an alternate material can impact the finished formula. Emphasis will be placed on real-world formulation effects, including changes in foam profile, viscosity development, pH drift, fragrance interaction, color, stability, and overall sensory performance.

This session is designed for formulators, R&D scientists, supply chain managers and chemical sales professionals.

Presenters

Sophie Bonham is Associate Director of Formulation at Cosmos Corporation. She received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville. Sophie has over 10 years of experience in personal care and pet care formulation. She resides in St. Louis with her husband Jarrod, and energetic dog Sawyer. Sophie has served on our local chapter’s board for many years. She serves as the Chair-Elect for 2026.

Dr. Dale Sanson has been a Formulation/Organic chemist for over 30 years and obtained his doctorate at the University of Missouri, Columbia. He also has holds BS degrees in Chemistry and Counseling Psychology, as well as an MBA in Management. He is the 2026 Secretary for the St. Louis Chapter of the Society of Cosmetic Chemistry. He is the Senior Director of R&D for Fresh and Clean Pet Grooming Products and PBI/Gordon Turf and Ornamental Division.