Class of 2026
Making a Choice to Change the Cosmetic World: Milaya Phillip's Journey
A Senior's Purpose is Fueled by Resilience and Global Experience
Resilient through her matriculation at Spelman College, Milaya Phillip, C’2026, has triumphed over financial obstacles and personal challenges to pursue her passion for cosmetic science with unwavering determination.
An independent student majoring in chemistry, Phillip aspires to become a product developer and formulator focused on inclusive beauty solutions through intentional ingredient research and thoughtful product development.
"As an independent student, navigating college has come with many challenges. I pay for Spelman entirely out of pocket, and as you know, being at the number one HBCU, which is also a private institution, makes the financial side even more difficult,” said Phillip.
At one point, the weight of tuition costs nearly led her to transfer.
"During my semester off, I strongly considered transferring to Georgia State University to finish my chemistry degree, simply because it felt more financially feasible. But when Spelman announced the cosmetic science concentration [in March 2024], it lit a fire under me. That moment reminded me why I chose Spelman in the first place."
Reinvigorated, Phillip doubled down — applying for scholarships, taking out loans, and staying focused on her goals. That same semester, she attended Spelman’s Black Beauty STEMinist Summit led by Leyte Winfield, Ph.D., chemistry professor, division chair for the Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM), and director of the cosmetic science program. It was a defining experience that helped crystallize her career path Phillip said.
"It truly confirmed for me that cosmetic science is not just a passion, it’s my purpose.”
Thanks to scholarships, Phillip was able to return to Spelman in the fall and immerse herself fully in her studies — an opportunity she does not take for granted.
"Having my tuition covered through scholarships last school year was incredibly rewarding. It allowed me to focus on my academics and gave me the chance to experience studying abroad in France,” she said.
While abroad, Phillip explored the science behind beauty and wellness in European ethnic communities. The study abroad program examined how cultural and scientific perspectives shape the global beauty landscape, with an emphasis on natural ingredients and product formulation.
That program opened my eyes to how global perspectives shape beauty, and it reaffirmed my mission to develop inclusive, natural and culturally conscious products, especially for people with melanated skin and textured hair.”
Her international experience was packed with hands-on learning. At L’Oréal, she explored innovations in skin chemistry, including the development of groundbreaking products like the La Roche-Posay Melasyl B3 serum—hailed as a “first-of-its-kind discoloration treatment” designed to visibly correct persistent dark spots while preserving the skin’s natural tone.
She also learned about fragrance development at Estée Lauder and formulated her own lotions at ISIPCA University in Versailles, a premier institution specializing in perfume, cosmetics, and flavor formulation. Her travels across cities like Paris, Grasse, and Versailles deepened both her scientific knowledge and her resolve to merge science and cultural consciousness in the beauty industry.
"Beauty may be universal, but inclusivity and accessibility are still far from it. I am more inspired than ever to create products that represent and uplift everyone.”
Now a senior, Phillip continues to press forward with the same commitment and hope that fueled her return. With grit, purpose and a global perspective, she plans to reshape the future of beauty, one inclusive product at a time
"I’m back in the process of applying for scholarships again, holding onto that same hope—that with the right support, I’ll be able to make the most of my upcoming school year, just like I did last year.”