The European Dermocosmetology Centre (Centre Européen de Dermocosmétologie) was founded in 1962 by three pioneers who were convinced of the scientific value of Cosmetology: industrialist H.M. GATTEFOSSÉ, research pharmacist J. COTTE and research dermatologist H. THIERS.

The Centre was created to promote the high-level teaching of this discipline which, hitherto, was not officially recognised. In 1966 the first European Dermocosmetology Seminar (Journées Européennes de Dermocosmétologie) was held in Lyon and this event soon attracted Research and Development managers from all national and international cosmetics groups.

In 1970 Lyon University introduced the first specialised course in Cosmetology with a post-graduate degree. Cosmetology was then part of the master’s degree in Industrial Pharmacy and retained this status until 1999.

In 1973 the CED began to work in the field of practical formulation in the premises of the Centre Technique du Cuir (CTC) at Gerland, under the supervision of M.C. MARTINI. In addition to its teaching programmes the CED developed research activities under contract with several cosmetic firms.
It opened a laboratory (run by M.C. MARTINI) and gained a respected position on the market for testing and evaluating the efficiency of cosmetic products by means of instrumental measures (including animal testing) in addition to carrying out formulation analyses and controls.

In 1993, the centre ceased its research services as a result of its growth which had become incompatible with its status as a non-profit making organisation. Since then, the CED, under the guidance of Professor J. COTTE, has focused on the organisation of the European Dermocosmetology Seminar.

In 2003, the CED moved to the Textile Department at Vaise in premises better suited to its mission, and to become the true ‘showcase’ of Lyon’s expertise in the cosmetology industry :

> Organising scientific events concerning the Dermocosmetological sector (European Dermocosmetology Seminar, Lyon Dermocosmetology Forum)

> Supporting research in the region

> Promoting the activities of the Cosmetics pole in the Rhône-Alpes region among public authorities in addition to national and international cosmetics firms

> Improving and adapting Dermocosmetology teaching in the region to meet the needs of the industry

> Developing relations among the Cosmetics sector and its related industries such as Chemicals and Textiles which also play a major role in the economy of the Rhône-Alpes region

Download CED's documentation, PDF format : Plaquette_CED ( 505 Ko)

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