At UNIgreen, international mobility and scientific innovation are at the core of the student journey. In line with our commitment to sustainability, knowledge transfer, and European collaboration, SupBiotech proudly hosted the 2026 Installation of UNIgreen’s Winter School: From Skin Science to Sustainable Cosmetic Formulation.
Bringing together students from partner institutions across Europe, this Winter School offered a dynamic mix of academic learning, hands-on practice, and international exchange, all centred on one essential theme: building the future of sustainable cosmetic science.
A Program That Blends Science, Innovation, and European Collaboration
Held from January 19 to 23, 2026, with participants welcomed to SupBiotech’s campus from January 18, this five-day intensive course explored the biological, regulatory, and technological foundations of sustainable cosmetic development.
The Winter School awarded 4 ECTS credits to participants and included breakfasts, lunches, one welcome dinner, accommodation, and local transportation. Aditionally, the week long course explored the biological, regulatory, and technological foundations of sustainable cosmetic development.
This edition gathered 24 international students and some of them from UNIgreen and international partner institutions (University of Almeria, AUM Poznan, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, UNIMORE, Centria University of Applied Sciences & Universidade Catolica Portuguesa) creating the ideal environment for teamwork, exchange, and community building within the Erasmus+ and UNIgreen networks.
A Week Designed for Immersive Learning and International Exchange
Instead of traditional academic lectures alone, the Winter School offered a holistic learning experience built around exploration, collaboration, and applied scientific practice. The structure of the week was carefully designed to alternate between scientific sessions, practical workshops, expert insights, and group activities.
Key Elements of the Learning Experience Integrated Scientific Modules
Participants explored:
- Skin physiology and scalp & hair biology, including anatomy, skin conditions, and common capillary disorders.
- European cosmetic regulations, with interactive case studies to distinguish cosmetic products and understand mandatory requirements.
- Sustainable formulation principles, focusing on environmental impact, responsible raw material sourcing, and transition to biobased ingredients.
Hands On Practical Learning‑On Practical Learning
The program included:
- A soap formulation workshop where students developed a cosmetic solid product from raw ingredients to finished prototype.
Collaboration and Team Spirit
The evaluation emphasized:
- Participation,
- Co-operation,
- Collective problem solving,‑solving
- and a final group report.
This reflects the program’s commitment to sustainability not only in content, but also in the values it promotes.
A Warm Welcome in Paris
To make the experience even more memorable, participants enjoyed a welcome dinner in a traditional Parisian restaurant, fostering connections between students and staff in a friendly and multicultural atmosphere.
This warm moment replaced the originally planned cultural activity and offered a perfect introduction to French hospitality and gastronomy.
A Promising Edition that Strengthens European Bonds
The 2026 Winter School once again highlighted the importance of international academic collaboration within the Erasmus+ and UNIgreen frameworks.
Students left with:
- New scientific and technical skills,
- Practical experience in sustainable cosmetic innovation,
- A deeper understanding of AI’s role in formulation science,
- And meaningful connections with peers from across Europe.
SupBiotech’s International Relations & UNIgreen teams are already preparing future editions, continuing their mission to promote sustainability, scientific excellence, and intercultural exchange.
