Exploring the Evolution of Cosmetics in China with Mr. Li Huiliang via SOFW

Interview with Mr Li Huiliang (Professor/Senior Engineer/Senior Scientist)
Chairman of PCHi’s Cosmetics Science & Technology Innovation Committee (CSTIC) Chief Laboratory Technologist at Florasis

1. Reflecting on your long career, what have been some of the pivotal moments or breakthroughs that defined your path as one of China’s leading cosmetic experts?

I entered the cosmetics industry in the 1980s. At that time, the China’s cosmetics industry was still in its infancy, with many aspects being imperfect and in the process of exploration. I was assigned to go to Japan to learn advanced cosmetic technology, scientific research management, and production management knowledge. This learning experience profoundly made me realize that the cosmetics industry is a field with a high level of scientific content, involving multidisciplinary knowledge, including human biology, dermatology, physiology, materials science, as well as safety evaluation and microbiological preservation challenges. At that time, these aspects were still lacking domestically, but this learning experience made me aware of the importance of systematic research. After returning to China, I worked hard to establish a complete research and development system in line with international standards in the process of cosmetic research and product development, which played a key role in my later career development.

Secondly, the development of the Liushen Floral Water (六神花露水) had a significant impact on me. This was an important practice after I learned advanced foreign technologies. The original intention of Liushen Floral Water was to solve summer skin problems, such as heat rash, swelling, itching, etc. Unlike traditional floral water, it not only has emotional value but also practical efficacy. I added various Chinese herbal ingredients, such as mint, borneol, and phellodendron, for antibacterial and anti-inflammatory purposes, and also included pearl hydrosol to increase skin moisturizing properties. The entire research and development process was very rigorous, including safety evaluation, irritation testing, and efficacy verification. These steps were considered pioneering in the Chinese cosmetics industry at that time. Although these concepts were not my original creation, I introduced them to China through learning and conducted a series of scientific experiments around product efficacy, which promoted the development of the domestic cosmetics industry.

These key events and breakthroughs shaped my career path as one of China’s leading beauty experts.

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