'Scientists must be in the vision, not just the formulation,' says Oriflame VP

Before a tour of the brand’s lab and clinical testing areas, VP Mary Lord sat down to discuss why Ireland is Oriflame’s hub for Western Europe – R&D-wise, and how the vision of the end product is not 'just left to the marketing departments'.

“Often you find that​ scientists can be in the body of the formulation, but the labs here are immensely involved in the vision of the end product​,” Mary tells this publication.

The VP explains that whilst the strategy lies with the marketing team and technical insight is the key role of the toxicologists on site, policies are in place where all departments are briefed before any developments can begin.

Mary says for example that the lab would never put forward an ingredient that didn't suit a particular range within the brand.

“Functional excellence in toxicology work together in an integrated way, focusing on the right things with an end result in mind​,” she reiterates.

Ireland is the hub for Western Europe – R&D wise​

Oriflame's Ireland based R&D hub is home to a team of 160 people, a sizeable facility considering the brand’s skin research institute in Stockholm has a staff of twelve.

Cosmetics Design was given an exclusive tour of the expansive centre, dropping in to meet the regulatory and sustainability departments, the ‘Hair Salon’ to discover more about the brand's HairX Care range, the ’Skin Zone’ for the Ecollagen range and the clinical testing area.

All employees have a scientific background and are working 5 years ahead in terms of regulation and innovation, particularly within the skin care arena.

"Some of the 'R' is here, but product development, the big ‘D’, is the main function of the facility,"​ Mary explains.

"The 'D' and the 'R' work closely together, the 'R' being in Stockholm, where we then have the technology of converting that research to developing the product here," ​she adds.

Oriflame has near to one thousand products in six categories – skin care, colour cosmetics, fragrance, personal & hair care, accessories and wellness in over 60 countries.