About geek + makeup + wisdom

What’s up, Boosukes? My name is Mica Oba. Welcome to my website Geek + Makeup + Wisdom. This website is about anything related to cosmetic chemistry, from career and education advice to talking about the science behind our personal care and makeup products.

I received my BS in pharmaceutical chemistry from the University of California, Davis in 2012 and my MS in pharmaceutical chemistry with an emphasis on cosmetic science from the University of Cincinnati in 2014. My capstone project was on “Approaches for Anti-Glycation Skin Care” (where I basically debunked the efficacy of anti-glycation products).

I started working as an intern lab technician in 2011 at a cosmetic contract manufacturing company, eventually working my way up to working as a product developer for two LVMH brands. I made the switch to the pharmaceutical industry in 2016 and work in the industry as a formulation chemist.

As you may see from my blog, I’m very open about my Stiff Person Syndrome diagnosis because I think there needs to be more visibility on how invisible illnesses affect people’s lives. Due to this chronic illness, I can no longer work on the bench, so I’ve started to delve more in science writing. Lately the most I can do is make things at home for my husband and me when we need something. 

Currently I work as a formulation chemist and science writer for the pharmaceutical industry and Geek + Makeup + Wisdom on the side for fun (including my online ecourse). Outside of formulation chemistry, I am on the PR & Marketing committee of my local observatory and have way too many hobbies.

Disclaimer

Any advice I share on skincare is not a substitute for your doctor’s. I am not a skincare professional—I am a formulation chemist, not an aesthetician or dermatologist. Please seek professional advice for any skincare concerns.

“You’re a cosmetic chemist who’s not considered a skincare professional?????” That is indeed the case, boosuke! Not all chefs are nutritionists or dieticians, so while they know how to cook it doesn’t mean that they can tell patients how to best adjust their diets. Look to me as a chef, not a licensed nutritionist or dietician for your skin.

All content presented on this website do not represent the views or opinions of my current employer. 

Features and collabs

Check out some of the things I’ve been featured in here.

What the Hell is a “Boosuke?”

I just love the greatest anime on earth, Yu Yu Hakusho, ok? How can I not make a reference to it on my own business website?