Practical Aspects of Cosmetic Testing: How to Set up a Scientific Study in Skin Physiology

Skin physiology assessment is moving from a descriptive approach to a deeper understanding of biophysical and biochemical processes in the stratum corneum, such as epidermal barrier function and stratum corneum hydration. New, non-invasive approaches offer reliable and reproducible methods for product testing in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry, as well as in basic research. While standard instruments focus on functional aspects, innovative devices offer a deeper understanding of underlying mechanisms.

This book discusses the assessment of skin physiology and of skin functions in clinical studies using non-invasive biophysical instruments, offering readers a comprehensive guide to planning, performing and evaluating the results of scientific studies in skin measurement and the legal framework for these studies. Written by leading experts in the field, it focuses on practical aspects of non-invasive measurements. After introducing the legal aspects of the current framework for clinical cosmetic studies and basic research in cosmetology, it explores the technical practicalities of organizing a testing lab and the pre-requirements for planning a study. The third and main section addresses specific topics in cosmetic testing e.g. skin hydration, and also includes chapters on sensory aspects and in vivo skin structure vizualization.   

This new, updated edition of Practical Aspects of Cosmetic Testing is a valuable tool for researchers, students, and medical staff wanting to gain insights into how best to assess skin functions in controlled studies using non-invasive biophysical instruments.

Joachim W. Fluhr, M.D., is an Adjunct Professor at the Department of Dermatology, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, and a Research Associate at the Dept. of Dermatology and Allergology. After completing his medical training at the University of Mainz, Germany and the University of Strasbourg, France, and earning his degree in 1992, he served as a dermatology resident at the Hospital of Karlsruhe, and visiting researcher at IRCCS Polyclinic S. Matteo, Pavia, Italy, earning a postdoctoral fellowship in 2002 after two years with P. Elias and K. Feingold. Dr Fluhr is board member of the International Society for Biophysics and Imaging of the Skin (ISBS). He has authored over 180 international, peer-reviewed original publications (H-Index 63), 250 presentations at international meetings (both oral and poster), 20 book chapters and edited 6 books. He is an associate editor of the journals Skin Pharmacology and Physiology; Cosmetics, and an editorial board member of the journals Skin Research and Technology, International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Biomedical and Biopharmaceutical Research and International Journal of Dermatology and Venereology.