Extension in focus: practicas cosmetology workshps to train and engage members of a Phytotherapy, Cosmetology and Aesthetics Academic Interest Group

Abstract

University extension plays a fundamental role in bridging theory and practice, with interest groups standing out as spaces for the application of knowledge. In this context, the Interest Group of Phytotherapy, Cosmetology, and Aesthetics (Llafice), at the University of International Integration of the Afro-Brazilian Lusophony (UNILAB), has promoted practical workshops since 2020, following the Hands-On methodology. This experience report, which refers exclusively to the Cosmetology workshops carried out between march 2026 and november 2024, discusses the relevance of these workshops for student training and their impact on the community. Internal workshops, for group members, and external workdhops, for undergraduate and high school students, reaching 105 participants, were conducted on topics such as perfume production, air fresheners, and oil-control gels, which fostered engagement, public speaking, creativity, and collaboration. Furthermore, university events expanded knowledge dissemination and stimulated interest in cosmetology and entrepreneurship. It is concluded that the training pathway adopted, comprising theoretical training, internal hands-on practice and the subsequent role of members as instructors, favored the consolidation of technical contente, the developmentof communication and teamwork skills, and the autonomy of members. Moreover, adapting the workshop favored the consolidation of technical contente, the development of communication and teamwork skills, and the autonomy of members. Moreover, adapting the workshops to diferente audiences brought the university closet to its internal Community and to basic education, reinforcing the role of academic interest groups as a space for extension and professional training.