New cosmetic testing lab launched in Germany with focus on skin care

Nowadays industry authorities, both nationally and internationally, require scientific substantiation of efficacy claims of cosmetic products.

With this new venture, tests can be carried out on skin moisturising, skin barrier integrity, wrinkle reduction, and deodorant efficiency. Dermatology studies will also form part of the new SGS lab testing portfolio.

Safe and effective cosmetics​

“Worldwide, consumer organizations and the cosmetics industry make sure that their products are safe (skin compatible) and effective (they actually provide the declared/labeled function),”​ says an SGS statement.

“Claims of product efficacy such as ‘anti-aging’, ‘moisturizing’ and ‘wrinkle-reduction’ require factual scientific substantiation with state-of-the-art measurement and analysis.”​

At the new SGS lab, further dermatological investigations will be carried out, such as for skin compatibility (human patch tests), anti-pimple efficacy and anti-dandruff efficacy. In addition, an ophthalmologist investigates the eye-compatibility of decorative cosmetics.

Whole host of tests​

Many of these tests and studies call for strictly controlled conditions of temperature and humidity both before (acclimatization period) and during measurements.

SGS says that is why the new test lab is climate controlled with narrow tolerances of 22 ± 1°C and 50 ± 5 per cent relative humidity.

“Combining apparative testing with an optional detailed research questionnaire, which provides galenic parameters, cosmetic acceptance, compatibility and efficacy scores, the consumers' opinion about the products can be considered as well (market performance).”​

SGS Cosmetics Solutions is an inspection, verification, testing and certification company, checking the safety, quality and performance of products and systems.

SGS helps verify cosmetics' compliance with the requirements of applicable cosmetic regulations and other relevant legislation, including REACH, Cosmetic GMP, CMRs, aerosol, hazardous substances, etc.