Class of 2026
Making a Choice to Change the Cosmetic World: Milaya's Journey
Finding Her Purpose Through Cosmetic Science
Resilient through her matriculation, Milaya Phillip, C’2026, has overcome financial hurdles and personal challenges to pursue her passion for cosmetic science with unwavering determination.
"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."
Phillip is an aspiring product developer and formulator majoring in Chemistry. Her goal is to create more inclusive beauty solutions through ingredient research and product formulation. In early March of 2024, Spelman announced that a new concentration will be offered in cosmetic science.
"During my semester off, I strongly considered transferring to GSU to finish my Chemistry degree, simply because it felt more financially feasible. But when Spelman announced the Cosmetic Science concentration, it lit a fire under me. That moment reminded me why I chose Spelman in the first place."
The Black Beauty STEMinist conference was a pivotal moment in her career interest. The Summit's purpose was to celebrate and empower Black women in the cosmetic and personal care industries. Phillip learned in-depth topics ranging from cosmetic formulation to the science of hair, skin, color, and fragrance.
"It truly confirmed for me that cosmetic science is not just a passion, it’s my purpose," Phillip stated.
Once Phillip returned to Spelman, she had the opportunity to travel to France as a teaching assistant. Being there, she grew her scientific knowledge and social mission within 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.” Phillip wrote.
During her visit, she was able to learn from one of the biggest makeup brands, such as L'Oréal. Here she explored skin chemistry innovations like the La Roche-Posay Melasyl B3 Serum. Additionally, Estee Lauder taught her the foundation of how a fragrance becomes an official product. Also, at ISIPCA University (Versailles), Phillip successfully formulated her own lotions. These experiences, combined with cultural exposure across cities like Paris, Grasse, and Versailles, further fueled her mission to develop inclusive, natural, and culturally conscious beauty solutions.
Phillip looks forward to using her Spelman education to shape the future of inclusive beauty.