Introduction

Forensic Analysis of Cosmetics 

Forensic Analysis of Cosmetics 

This webinar originally occurred on February 17, 2022.
Duration: 1 hour

Overview

What is in a cosmetic? Cosmetics are a huge part of many people’s daily routine, but the science behind these quick fixes is still somewhat of a mystery to most and forensic science still has much to learn regarding this form of evidence. This webinar will provide a peek behind the curtain of cosmetics, specifically those applied to the face, and explore what makes these products work. The presenter will include an overview of ingredients commonly found in cosmetics, including typical usage levels and their purpose in these products. Some of the ingredients will be familiar to trace chemists as they are also used in more traditional forms of trace evidence, such as paint. The webinar will discuss various analytical approaches to the analysis of cosmetic products and their individual components, which should also be familiar to trace chemists. Specific emphasis will be placed on microscopy, infrared, and elemental analyses. There are specific challenges and limitations associated with analyzing cosmetics, including limited published research, mixtures of various products, contamination from biological materials, and changes to the chemical composition due to absorption and evaporation. This webinar will conclude with a discussion of how to answer specific questions, which were asked of the presenter regarding evidence from a case, like "Is this material a cosmetic?" and "Can a potential source of the material be determined?"

Detailed Learning Objectives

  1. Attendees will learn the composition of cosmetics, specifically those applied to the face.
  2. Attendees will gain an awareness of the specific materials or combination of materials that can determine whether a questioned material is a cosmetic.
  3. Attendees will understand the limitations of comparing questioned source cosmetic materials with known sources.

Presenter

  • Jeremy Morris | Forensic Scientist Supervisor, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office Criminalistics Laboratory

Funding for this Forensic Technology Center of Excellence webinar has been provided by the National Institute of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice.

The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this webinar are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. Department of Justice.

Contact us at ForensicCOE@rti.org with any questions and subscribe to our newsletter for notifications.


Related Content

What FSSP Leaders Should Know about Artificial Intelligence and its Application to Forensic Science In-Brief

Date December 2023 Overview Artificial intelligence (AI), which leverages computers to perform tasks that enhance decision-making, problem-solving capabilities, and technology-driven innovativeness,” is a rapidly growing area of interest for both industry and the federal research and development (R&D) community.1 For forensic science service…

FLN-TWG: A Roadmap to Improve Research and Technology Transition in Forensic Science

← Back to FLN-TWG Main Page  Forensic Laboratory Needs Technology Working Group (FLN-TWG) The National Institute of Justice (NIJ), in partnership with the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCOE) at RTI International, formed the Forensic Laboratory Needs Technology Working Group…
brain, DNA, bloodstain

Human Factors in Forensic Science Practice Sourcebook

Publication Forensic Science International: Synergy, March 2022 Editors Heidi Eldridge, PhD | RTI International Barbara A. Spellman, JD, PhD | University of Virginia School of Law Thomas Busey, PhD | Indiana University, Psychological and Brain Sciences Working Group Members Paul…