Ron McLaughlin has been with Living Proof for more than 15 years and manages all of R&D, including research and measurement science, product innovation and development and process engineering.  He has a MS in Chemistry from Tufts and a BS in Chemistry from UMass-Lowell.

We asked McLaughlin about haircare formulation and what makes the Living Proof R&D team unique in the space.

HAPPI: What do you love about formulating haircare?

McLaughlin: I’ve been formulating haircare products for over 15 years now and what I truly love is that, unlike other areas of beauty, haircare at its core is the intersection of science and artistry. When formulating haircare products, it’s not simply just about function, but rather creating elegant formulations that balance functionality with a feel, look and sensorial effect. People are passionate about their hair as it’s a major part of their identity and emotional state. Formulating products that ultimately make people happy and helps build their self-esteem is why I love doing it.

HAPPI: What are you working on right now?

McLaughlin: Right now we’re working on supporting the launch of our new Triple Bond Complex and starting production efforts for our January launch, which will bring another new proprietary technology to the market. As far as development efforts, we’re actively working on projects slated for market in late 2023 through 2024. Unfortunately, I can’t say exactly what those projects are, but I can share that they will be focused on expanding into other areas and attracting new consumers to Living Proof.  

HAPPI: What makes the Living Proof R&D team special?

McLaughlin: As an MIT start-up, R&D and novel science is rooted deeply at Living Proof. Our R&D team is structured in such way that the team is fully integrated across functions, with aligned objectives resulting in delivery of high performing products as effectively and efficiently as possible. Responsibilities range from identifying upstream platform innovation opportunities, formulation design, consumer use testing, and manufacturing support. The entire team is vested at all stages which is key and what makes us unique. But what makes us special is the R&D team members themselves, their vast knowledge, passion, and exceptional work ethic is second to none and is ingrained in every Living Proof product. In fact, the R&D team has internally developed every single product Living Proof has ever launched, which is becoming more unusual today, but I see it as an advantage in delivering superior products.

HAPPI: Where do you find inspiration when it comes to R&D and formulating?

McLaughlin: Inspiration for new product ideas and technologies can come from a wide range of places. We of course look at our competition, industry trends, and consumer need. As we look for unique technical solutions, we often draw inspiration from other industries. For example, our Healthy Curl Complex, which improves curl strength, was inspired by materials used in wound care, paper and ceramics. We also work extensively with external partners to identify and develop cutting-edge technologies. And on occasion, inspiration can simply come from be my teenage daughter asking dad to make a new product to solve her personal haircare challenge of the day!  

HAPPI:  Do you have any advice for young chemists?

McLaughlin: My advice for young chemists entering this field would first be to get out there and go to as many industry and networking events as possible. The haircare and beauty industry as whole has so many amazing people and only by constantly engaging and learning from them will you ultimately be successful. Second, follow your passion. If you don’t truly enjoy formulating and developing a particular product you most likely won’t do a great job at it. The two single most important attributes to have are a drive for perfection and curiosity to constantly learn and explore new ideas.