L’Oreal USA continues to combine its resources at its Clark, NJ headquarters. In its latest move, the French-based beauty company is relocating its institute that researches ethnic hair and skin from Chicago to New Jersey.

“As the leader in the ethnic beauty business that continues to grow, it became increasingly important that those involved in this important work have closer proximity to the larger team of L’Oréal researchers at our main research center as well as to our business and industry partners in the area,” according to spokesman Matthew DiGirolamo.

The institute is expected to close in Chicago by the end of this month and will affect 21 employees working in areas from advanced research to product development and evaluation. Employees were given the opportunity to relocate to NJ or another L’Oreal location.