Naomi Crain

I attribute my success to a strong support system and a deep sense of perseverance. My family has always believed in me, encouraged my ambitions, and stood beside me through every challenge. Their support, along with the encouragement of close friends and mentors who continue to pour into me, has given me the confidence to pursue opportunities and keep growing.

Equally important has been my own determination. Whether in the classroom, the laboratory, or in my career, I have learned that perseverance and a willingness to keep pushing forward are essential to reaching meaningful goals. The combination of support from those in my corner and my commitment to continue striving has played a major role in the success I’ve achieved so far.

One of the best pieces of career advice I’ve received is that everyone’s path is different, and it’s important to take the time to find your own. Early in my journey, I learned not to measure my progress against others but instead focus on growing, learning, and building the skills that truly align with my goals. That perspective helped me stay patient and intentional with my decisions, whether pursuing new opportunities, continuing my education, or gaining experience in the laboratory.

It’s a reminder that success doesn’t have a single timeline. When you focus on developing your craft, staying curious, and trusting your process, the right opportunities tend to follow.

My advice to young women entering the cosmetic science and beauty industry is to stay curious, believe in your abilities, and never be afraid to take up space in the room. This field blends creativity with science, and there is so much opportunity for women to contribute innovative ideas and perspectives. Ask questions, seek mentorship, and take every opportunity to learn as much as you can—both in the lab and from the people around you.

It’s also important to remember that everyone’s journey in this industry looks different. Be patient with your growth, continue developing your technical skills, and surround yourself with people who support and challenge you. Your voice, ideas, and perspective are valuable, and the industry needs more women who are confident in bringing those contributions forward.

One of the biggest challenges in the cosmetic science field right now is that while interest in the industry continues to grow—especially among women and women of color—the number of available roles and opportunities can sometimes feel limited. As more people pursue careers in formulation, product development, and cosmetic chemistry, competition for positions can become strong.

At the same time, this also creates an opportunity to build meaningful connections within the industry. Cosmetic science is a relatively small and relationship-driven field, so networking plays a significant role in opening doors. Attending industry events, connecting with professionals, and building genuine relationships can make a big difference. My advice is to stay engaged, show up in spaces where the industry gathers, and continue developing your skills while building your network.

The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, curiosity, community, and maintaining a healthy work–life balance. I believe in approaching everything I do with honesty and a strong sense of responsibility, whether I’m developing products in the lab or supporting the people around me. Doing work that I can stand behind and being someone others can trust is very important to me.

Curiosity has also played a major role in my journey. In both science and life, I believe in constantly learning, asking questions, and pushing myself to grow. At the same time, I’ve learned that maintaining balance is essential. Work–life balance can be difficult, especially when you’re passionate about your career, but making time to rest, recharge, and stay connected to the people who matter most helps sustain long-term success.

Finally, I deeply value community and the support of those around me. My family, friends, and mentors have been instrumental in my growth, and I believe success is even more meaningful when it is shared with and supported by others.