As Co-Founder and Director of Business and Product Development at 8 Count Cosmetics, Savanah combines chemistry, creativity, and entrepreneurship to develop cosmetics designed with performance and accessibility in mind. Her work highlights how science influences the products and experiences people interact with every day.
With a background in chemistry and cosmetic product development, Savanah is passionate about creating products that help people feel confident while solving real-world consumer needs. Through formulation, testing, and innovation, she brings scientific thinking into an industry many people engage with daily — often without realizing the science behind it.
A Day in Product Development
What does a typical day in your role look like?
I am the Co-Founder of 8 Count Cosmetics, a performing arts-focused cosmetics company I built alongside my longtime friend and Co-Founder, Michael Jacinto Baugh. Because we are still a team of two, we both wear many hats – Michael is the Creative Director and I am the Director of Product and Business Development. This means a lot of my efforts currently go toward planning our social media content and marketing strategies, planning our in-person events and appearances, staying on top of our inventory and future product ideas, and keeping track of our bookkeeping. Prior to our launch in 2024, my efforts were focused on first coordinating with our research and development lab and then ultimately with our manufacturer, supply chain management, financial planning, and brand awareness.
How would you explain your field of work to a kindergarten class?
My friend and I worked together to create colorful makeup called “The Original Palette” for dancers, actors, and performers so they can feel confident and creative on stage! We also created “Cool Down Wipes” so that they can take off their makeup and clean up after a performance without irritating their skin.
The Path to Cosmetic Product Development
My combined education in chemistry and business allowed me to conceptualize AND bring our products to market. I have a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology degree from University of Wisconsin Green Bay, and I have two degrees from Concordia University Wisconsin – a Master of Science in Chemical Product Development from CUW School of Pharmacy and an MBA Certificate in Management from CUW Batterman School of Business.
I was originally on the pre-dental path during my undergrad, but learning about how work in the chemistry lab can lead to products that people use every day in their home and at work inspired me to switch gears and continue my studies in Chemical Product Development and Business Management. Seeing my innovations in the hands of real-life customers is a feeling that I hope many other scientists have the joy of experiencing!
I am most proud of commercializing not one but two products, and doing it with my good friend. Our casual conversations during the 2020 pandemic eventually became a real company with a trademark, multiple products, and a growing customer base!
Because I maintain a “day job” as a Chemist, all of my entrepreneurial efforts have to take place in my free time. This means that any work I do for 8 Count Cosmetics happens early in the morning or after work on weekdays, but the weekends are completely up for grabs!
I actually gave my first presentation about my company, while we were still in the development phase, at an AWIS – Greater Baltimore Chapter event! I was invited to be one of two speakers at the first “Sips and Science” event in 2023 and the husband of one of the audience members ended up designing our logo!
The Science That Moves Us Forward
How has your work/research helped drive discovery, innovation, or impact?
Michael and I identified a gap in the market for high-quality makeup specifically designed for performers. We created products that prioritize durability, versatility, inclusivity across skin tones and textures, and ease of use under demanding stage conditions – “The Original Palette.” We then decided to also offer soothing “Cool Down Wipes” to help minimize skin irritation during the post-performance cleanup process. We also intentionally built our company around ethical collaborations, working with artists and creatives in our marketing materials occurs through paid partnerships rather than the unpaid “exposure” work that is normalized in the arts.
Where do you see your work heading next?
One major focus for 8 Count Cosmetics moving forward is expanding our community involvement through more consistent in-person events, pop-ups, and appearances. I also think there is tremendous value in helping students and early-career scientists see that scientific training can open doors far beyond traditional career paths, including opportunities to create and build products of their own.
How do you see your work helping shape the future of STEM?
I hope my work helps demonstrate that the sciences can play an important role in improving industries that have historically relied on unsafe or improvised practices, including the performing arts. Performers are expected to work under intense physical conditions while often using products or materials that were never truly designed for those environments. I hope 8 Count encourages more scientists to consider how consumer product development can improve the end-user’s quality of life, safety, and accessibility.
To a Future Scientist Just Starting Out
What are some strategies you use to maintain resilience and persistence in the face of obstacles?
Building a company while navigating changing manufacturing requirements, supply chain issues, and the realities of a niche market taught me the importance of adaptability, patience, and not letting tasks pile up. Never ever procrastinate and never ever cut corners! I also believe strongly in surrounding yourself with people who genuinely support your goals and values.
What advice would you give to your younger self / someone just starting out in your field?
Learn the basics thoroughly and do not rush that stage of the process. Whether you are in the lab or the business office, having a strong technical foundation is what gives you the ability to innovate later. Successful and ethical changes come from people who know the rules well enough to thoughtfully bend them to their will, rather than break them.
What message would you share with future scientists about the power they hold to make a difference?:
Science has the power to improve people’s everyday experiences in large and small ways. Innovation is not limited to historic breakthroughs – sometimes it means identifying overlooked problems and creating thoughtful, inclusive solutions. Scientists have the ability to shape the future, especially when they are willing to collaborate across disciplines and think creatively.
