![]() When selecting in vitro methods for your cosmetics testing, regulators in major markets strongly recommend choosing validated methods. The test above is validated: specifically, it is approved by the ECVAM ( European Centre for the Validation of Alternatives Methods ) and the COLIPA ( European Cosmetic Toiletry and Perfumery Industry Association ). This is one of the many test methods provided by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) library. For example, one method used for assessing a cosmetics’ products irritation potential is In Vitro Skin Irritation: Reconstructed Human Epidermis Test Method. The exposure times for different chemicals, measurement criteria, and other test specifics are prescribed by the approved guidance document for the test. A certain time after application, the cellular response is measured. To assess skin irritation in vitro, researchers apply the test chemical to a 3D model of human epidermis, which closely mimics the biochemical and physiological properties of the upper parts of the human skin. Since irritation is a local response (as opposed to a full-body response like an allergic reaction), it can be observed and measured in isolation: in this case, on the reconstructed skin model. In response, damaged cells produce an immune response, which can show as reddening and/or swelling. Skin irritation occurs when chemicals penetrate the upper layers of the skin and damage cells underneath. In the cosmetics testing industry, in vitro testing usually involves cell lines and reconstructed models of the human epidermis (skin) and cornea (front of the eye).įor a hands-on example of in vitro testing done in the cosmetics industry, let’s look at one of the methods for assessing skin irritation using reconstructed human epidermis.įirst, a note on how irritation works. “In vitro” translates from Latin as “in glass,” and means a test that is done outside of a living organism. Phototoxicity (chemically induced skin irritation).Cytotoxicity, including skin/eye irritation and corrosion.The existing in vitro models can be used for regulatory safety and toxicity testing of cosmetics and ingredients, as well as to test efficacy, support product claims, and confirm the listed ingredients. ![]() In vitro testing has long existed as an alternative to animal testing, and recent technological advances have made sophisticated yet cost-effective in vitro models available to the cosmetics industry. ![]() Even in countries without such bans, the dislike of animal testing is growing every day. However, animal testing for cosmetics is now banned in many countries, including all EU member states. Historically, the many tests required to bring cosmetic products to market have been performed on animals. Skin microcirculation and vascularization.Bioanalysis of non-invasive clinical samples.Gene expression and transcriptomic analysis.Phytochemical analysis & metabolic profiling.
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