“Breaking Beauty Boundaries with Science” is the theme for this year’s New York Society of Cosmetic Chemists (NYSCC) Suppliers’ Day, held May 19–20 at the Javits Center in New York City.

For NYSCC Chair Anushka Nadkarni, the theme reflects the transformation of the beauty and personal care industry underway.

“Science is expanding what beauty can be—moving beyond traditional categories into biotechnology, advanced ingredient design, and deeper insights into skin health and longevity,” Nadkarni told Happi. “It also captures a broader shift: beauty is increasingly connected to wellness. Formulators are developing products that support the skin barrier, microbiome and long-term health, while advancing diversity and inclusivity across skin tones, hair types, and global consumer needs.”

For Nadkarni, Suppliers’ Day “is where these ideas come to life—from formula to finish. The theme celebrates not only scientific progress, but the collaboration driving the industry forward.”

Suppliers’ Day Exhibition

This year, NYSCC is expecting close to 700 exhibitors across the largest exhibit floor in the show’s history, according to organizers.

It will create an “incredible environment for discovery and collaboration,” Nadkarni shared.

That environment has been nurtured by NYSCC members over the years to ensure the show, the leading beauty formulation event in the US, reflects the evolving nature of the industry.

To that end, there is always something new at Suppliers’ Day, from events to panels and experiences.

Some of the new events this year include:

• A K-Beauty Immersion and Tour exploring Korea’s continued influence on global innovation, combining expert-led panels with a guided show-floor tour of leading suppliers;
• Biodesigned Care, focusing on biotech-enabled ingredients and next-generation sourcing; and
• An interactive sensory workshop with the Society of Sensory Perception on how sensory science guides product development.

NYSCC Suppliers’ Day will feature Idea Ignition, a new mainstage program spotlighting emerging concepts shaping the future, and will broadcast its new podcast from the show floor.

“Together, these additions offer a forward-looking view of where beauty innovation is headed,” she said.

The Beauty Ecosystem

For Nadkarni, Suppliers’ Day is a special opportunity for the industry, created by the industry.

“The energy on the show floor is truly unlike any other event in the industry,” she said. “Suppliers’ Day brings together the entire beauty innovation ecosystem—cosmetic chemists, ingredient suppliers, formulators, brand leaders, marketers, entrepreneurs, and students—all in one place.”

Show attendees can explore curated destinations like The Inspiration Hive, where breakthrough ingredients and formulations are showcased.

The Indie 360° Pavilion will also be onsite again, spotlighting emerging brands and entrepreneurial innovation.

At the Innovation Theater, suppliers will present technical insights. The Formulators Tour will guide attendees through a focused look at how plant life and natural inspiration translate into ingredient development.

Technical poster presentations—a staple for cosmetic chemists—will also be featured.

According to Nadkarni, the on-site experience is a catalyst for innovation.

“What makes it special is that innovation isn’t just something you hear about—it’s something you experience in real time while speaking directly with the scientists and innovators behind the technologies,” she said.

Keynotes from Supergoop! and L’Oréal

This year, keynote addresses will be given by high-profile founders and R&D experts.

Supergoop! CEO Melis del Rey and Chief Innovation Officer Akshay Talati will discuss how the brand transformed SPF into a daily skincare ritual.

L’Oréal Groupe’s Aurélia Del Bufalo will share insights into how collaboration and advanced research are driving innovation across one of the world’s leading beauty companies.

NYSCC has also planned global and technical perspectives through sessions on China’s innovation in skin longevity and IFSCC’s forward-looking science program. Regulatory insights, including updates on MoCRA, will also be covered.

Other returning sessions, such as Discover Sustainability and World of Chemistry and Fragrance, complement specialized tracks presented by NYSCC’s Scientific Committee, including dermabeauty, hair and scalp innovations and microbiome research.

There will also be expanded programming for students and early-career professionals, including the Future Chemists Workshop (scheduled for both days), mentorship opportunities, and a career fair.

Collaborations Expand the Experience

What makes NYSCC Suppliers’ Day unique is its collaboration with partner organizations such as CEW and Independent Beauty Association (IBA).

CEW will hold a membership mixer and innovators panel. In addition, NYSCC will announce the finalists of the CEW Beauty Awards Supplier’s Category at its Industry Awards Night on May 19.

IBA will lead a post-show regulatory forum, bringing together global experts to discuss evolving compliance.

“These collaborations help transform mid-May into a true ‘Week of Beauty,’” Nadkarni said.

More information on NYSCC Suppliers’ Day can be found on the NYSCC website.