Cosmetic Microbiology

Philip A. Geis, Ph.D., is a native Texan who earned bachelor and doctor of philosophy degrees in microbiology from the University of Texas. He is currently a section head with The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) in Cincinnati, Ohio, and has responsibilities for global microbiology within its Beauty Business Unit. Dr. Geis joined P&G in 1981 as a divisional microbiologist for the development of preservative systems and disinfectants and the study of household and skin microbial ecologies. His subsequent work focused on microbiological method development, design and maintenance of sanitary manufacturing systems, and microbial ecology associated with underarm odor, dandruff, toilet soil, and bathroom mildew. Responsible for the technical efforts of multiple operations around the globe, Dr. Geis has acquired unique experience involving diverse regulatory, manufacturing, and product quality realities. His experience and responsibilities with P&G have also included product development and formulation as well as regulatory and environmental affairs. Dr. Geis publishes and lectures on microbiological and environmental subjects, served as an associate editor for the Society for Industrial Microbiology News, and represented the technical interests of P&G to professional organizations, regulatory bodies, and scientific societies. He is a member of MENSA, the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), and the Society for Industrial Microbiology (SIM). He is also a trustee of the Ohio Academy of Science and vice president of ASM’s Ohio branch and works to promote science as an ad hoc reviewer for scientific journals and academic programs of ASM, Ohio EPA, and a number of state science standards academic programs.

History of Cosmetic Microbiology. Biology of Microbes. Microbial Environment of the Manufacturing Plant. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point Protocols in Cosmetic Microbiology. Antimicrobial Preservative Efficacy and Microbial Content Testing. Validation of Methods. Preservation Strategies. Antimicrobial Mechanisms of Selected Preservatives and the Bacterial Response. Consumer Safety Considerations of Cosmetic Preservation. Global Regulation of Preservatives and Cosmetic Preservatives. Appendix: Common Cosmetic Preservatives.