Natalie Belsey, National Physical Laboratory

 Title:-  Topical formulations under the microscope: chemical imaging and fate post application.

Abstract

Confocal Raman spectroscopy is a well-established tool to map chemical distribution in formulated products, for example pharmaceutical tablets. However, for high resolution imaging, or investigating dynamic processes, the relatively long acquisition times to generate 3D maps can be limiting.

Non-linear optical spectroscopies such as stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy are a valuable new tool to assess formulations. High resolution 3D chemical images can be acquired in ‘real time’ to reveal ingredient (co-)localization and more. In addition, ingredients can be monitored post-application to the skin, to reveal mechanistic information such as penetration pathway and direct visualisation of metamorphosis.   

Biography

Natalie Belsey is a Senior Research Scientist in the Surface Technology Group at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and a Senior Lecturer in Chemical & Process Engineering at the University of Surrey. Natalie’s research is focused on the application of optical spectroscopies, in particular stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy to study formulated products and their fate post-application to the skin. To this end, Natalie works with a wide range of collaborators including university partners, pharmaceutical and consumer health companies and regulators. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, a Chartered Chemist, and a Fellow of the Community for Analytical Measurement Science (CAMS).