New knowledge-sharing platform for human cosmetics testing
Skinobs is described as a ‘smart tool to identify the testing methods and labs’ industry players need for in guaranteeing product safety and efficacy.
The team behind the platform, which is free to use, say that it is already used by 1500 worldwide cosmeticians as a ‘who’s who’ on 120 claim substantiation methods and more than 100 testing labs (CROs) for all types of cosmetics (skin care, sun care, hair care, toiletries and makeup).
“The users, by a private access to the site, can easily find specific and exhaustive data, on all the test types, claim substantiation, and subcontractor laboratories,” says the Skinobs team.
“To help users efficiently, Skinobs provides fast and in-depth information on existing methods and gives direct access to CRO’s request.“
Transparency key: proving claims
With consumer interest in transparency and efficacy on the rise, initiatives like the Skinobs platform look set to become an ever more important facilitator for brands looking to make sure their products pass muster.
Many major have been responding to the rising demand for transparency of late.
Unilever, for example, launched an initiative across Europe and the US earlier this year for its home and personal care brands, specifically focussing on fragrances.
“We are committed to ensuring people have the information they need to choose the right product for them. So that is exactly what we are doing, going the extra mile beyond what is already on the label,” said Unilever’s chief research and development officer, David Blanchard.
Elsewhere, research is being invested into working out ways to prove the provenance of ingredients, particularly important for those that claim to be natural.
Indeed, earlier this year, Applied DNA Sciences, a high-technology company, launched a natural, green molecular tag that can be used to mark cosmetics and cosmetic ingredients for exactly this purpose.
