The Department of Chemistry at Rawalpindi Women University (RWU) successfully organized a comprehensive three-day hands-on workshop titled “From Lab to Market: A Three-Day Hands-On Workshop on Cosmetic Formulations & Industrial Practices” from 16–18 February 2026. The workshop was designed to strengthen practical skills, enhance applied scientific understanding, and promote meaningful industry–academia collaboration. It offered participants valuable technical knowledge, hands-on experience, and direct exposure to industrial practices in cosmetic formulations.

Day 1: Talks and Technical Sessions on Skincare Formulations

The workshop commenced with insightful talks delivered by:

• Prof. Dr. M. Zaman Ashraf, Head of the Department of Chemistry, RWU

• Dr. Nida Rizwan, Consultant Dermatologist, Skin Specialist and Cosmetologist

• Dr. Summara Nazir, RMP Aesthetic Physician

The speakers highlighted emerging trends in cosmetic sciences, with particular emphasis on hydrafacials and chemical peels. They discussed the scientific mechanisms underlying these treatments, their clinical applications, formulation considerations, dermatological safety, and regulatory aspects. The sessions provided participants with a strong theoretical foundation linking cosmetic chemistry with clinical dermatology.

Following the talks, an extensive technical hands-on session was conducted by Prof. Dr. M. Zaman Ashraf, Head, Department of Chemistry, RWU and Dr. Zeeshan Rafique, CEO, A2Z Skin Care. This session focused on the practical development of serum, moisturizer, and face wash formulations. The resource persons provided detailed demonstrations on selection and functionality of active and excipient ingredients, Emulsification techniques and phase compatibility, pH adjustment and stability optimization

Day 2: Industrial Visit to A2Z Skin Care

On the second day, an industrial visit was organized at A2Z Skin Care, facilitated by:

• Dr. Zeeshan Rafique

• Mr. Muhammad Aamir, CEO, A2Z Skin Care

Participants observed real-time manufacturing processes, including bulk production units, homogenization systems, filling and packaging lines, quality control laboratories, and regulatory documentation practices. The visit provided valuable insight into Scale-up techniques from laboratory to commercial production.,Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Batch consistency and quality assurance protocols

The Department extends its sincere gratitude to Dr. Zeeshan Rafique and Mr. Muhammad Aamir for their generous support and expert guidance, which significantly enriched participants’ understanding of transforming laboratory formulations into market-ready products.

Day 3: Advanced Session and Expert Talks

The final day featured a specialized technical session on shampoo formulation, conducted by:Dr. Noureen Khan, Associate Professor, Chemistry, RWU and Dr. Tunzeel Iqbal, Lecturer, Chemistry, RWU.The session focused on surfactant systems, conditioning polymers, pH optimization, viscosity modification, foam stability, and performance evaluation. Participants gained hands-on experience in balancing cleansing efficiency with scalp compatibility and product aesthetics.

Additionally, Mr. Farhan Ahmed Chattha, Pharmacist and Entrepreneur, CEO MEDSKLS, delivered an informative session on entrepreneurship, commercialization pathways, regulatory frameworks, and strategies for bridging the gap between laboratory research and market demands. His talk motivated students to consider startup opportunities in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors.

Academic and clinical perspectives were further enriched by Dr. Hira Khan, Healthcare Professional, who emphasized product safety, dermatological compatibility, and ethical considerations in cosmetic applications.

Closing Ceremony

The workshop concluded with a formal closing ceremony, during which shields were presented to the resource persons in recognition of their valuable contributions. Certificates were awarded to the organizers and participants for their dedication, discipline, and active involvement throughout the three-day event.

The successful execution of this workshop reflects the Department of Chemistry’s strong commitment to applied scientific learning, professional skill development, innovation-driven education, and the strengthening of industry–academia linkages.