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Commitment brings Results for Alternative Methods

Scientific knowledge is advancing and the cosmetics industry is exploring new ways to ensure product safety.

Today four domains of toxicity can be  assessed with in vitro methods that replace animal testing and have been developed thanks to strong contributions from the industry. Four methods have been validated by ECVAM, the fifth—in vitro testing for dermal absorption/percutaneous penetration—has been officially accepted by the OECD.

Topic

Explanation

Replacement

Skin corrosion

Irreversible destruction of skin tissue by a chemical

**Transcutaneous Electrical Resistance Assay

Human skin models **Episkin™, **EpiDerm™; SkinEthic™

Phototoxicity

Irritation that only occurs when a substance is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light

**3T3 Neutral Red Uptake Phototoxicity Test

Percutaneous absorption

Absorption of a substance through the skin

**In vitro method

Skin irritation

Local skin effects e.g. redness, burning or stinging

Human Skin models Episkin™, EpiDerm™, SkinEthic™
** OECD Guidelines
We are proud of the success in achieving these replacement methods, thereby contributing to a reduction in the number of animal tests carried out. The industry as a whole is continuing to work towards the goal of replacing animal testing entirely.

Today, new data from animal testing on ingredients is only used as a last resort in cases where the legislation requires and permits it and where there is no other means of ensuring consumer safety.

Priority areas for further research

Individual members of Colipa commit substantial investment in research into alternative testing methods and are working collectively through the organisation to make progress as fast as possible. Building on a joint effort, Colipa is currently carrying out optimisation and research work in four priority areas.

The priority areas are:
  • Eye irritation
  • Genotoxicity/mutagenicity
  • Skin sensitisation
  • Systemic toxicity (including repeat dose toxicity)
Our aim is to develop validated and legally acceptable alternative approaches with a view to replacing animal testing and in accordance with the requirements laid down by the 7th amendment to the Cosmetics Directive.