Nicole Ho
Formulation Chemist
Nicole is our newest scientist at FACTORFIVE Skincare, hired in October 2020 as our formulation chemist to bring all of our new skincare product formulation in-house.
When and how did you get into beauty formulation?
I was fortunate enough to be in an academic scholarship program called "AvenueE" back when I first transferred to UC Davis in 2018. My program advisor knew that I wanted to work in the beauty industry when I joined, and since then she has been trying to seek out connections for me. Now, fast-forward to early fall 2019, she connected me with them and I was lucky enough to land an internship with a cosmetic lab in the Bay Area.
What is your science background?
I was a Chemical Engineering transfer student from Sacramento City College to University of California, Davis. I have had two internships (with AllureLabs in Hayward and Jova Beauty Development Labs & Manufacturing in Pleasant Hill) during my senior year in Davis, and a full-time job (with Jova Beauty) after graduation before joining the FACTORFIVE family.
Did you always love science?
I have always loved science! Organic Chemistry and Physics are my favorite science subjects!
What do you love about working with FACTORFIVE Skincare?
My favorite thing about working for FACTORFIVE is that I have the opportunity to develop skincare products with the help of our Stem Cell Specialists, that humanize aging.
What’s your favorite FACTORFIVE product and why?
My favorite FACTORFIVE products are the eye/lash cream and the anti-aging cream (I can't choose between the two!). I like the eye/lash cream because it is very hydrating and gentle to my eye area and I see a significant difference in the length of my lashes. I like the anti-aging cream because it is very creamy and hydrating to my skin and it makes it so silky smooth and glowy!
What advice would you give to young girls interested in science and technology?
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) is an interesting but competitive field. Advice I would give to young girls is that you should be confident and be brave. When people don't believe in you, be brave and confident and go for it. You will often be surprised at what can be accomplished at the end! Even when people start doubting you, you shouldn't doubt yourself; instead, believe in yourself and achieve your goals.
