There’s no doubt that cosmetic chemistry is more advanced than ever before. Today’s formulators are incorporating botanical extracts, exfoliating acids and peptides into a range of skin care creams, lotions and serums. Sure, it’s all high tech stuff, but do all these anti-aging products really do anything at all?

The January issue of Consumer Reports raised some serious questions about product efficacy. CR reporters found that a $20 skin cream worked better than a $350 product. Moreover, none of the products tested had any visible effect on the consumer’s wrinkles. If word of the Consumer Reports study spreads, consumers may think twice about spending hundreds of dollars for a single jar of skin care.

The New York Chapter of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists will look at how technology has changed the way we age at its Spring Seminar, which will be held April 10 at The Heldrich Hotel in New Brunswick, NJ. More info: www.nyscc.org

But for those who can’t wait for Spring to learn more about the latest in cosmetic research and development, read What’s New in Cosmetic R&D?

The sun care market has posted good gains for years as a growing portion of the population understands the benefits of UV protection. But as effective as sunscreens and blocks may be, formulators are adding a range of novel materials to their products to improve the level of protection. To learn the latest about finished formulas and novel ingredients, read Here Comes the Sun on Happi.com this month

This edition of Happi.com also includes articles on the European men’s grooming market and the AP/Deodorant market.