Efficacy testing: skin barrier improvement
General skin testing protocol
Number of subjects
20 (determined by client)
Place of application
Face / Arm / Thigh (determined by client)
Testing time
4 weeks (determined by client)
Sample requirement
Equal to the number of subjects
Measurement points
- T0 – before application (cleaned skin surface, adaptation time 20 min)
- Tx – after x weeks (determined by client)
Procedure
- Washout phase at least 2 h before the measurement
- 3–5 measurements on the testing site (“BEFORE testing”)
- Product used by participants at home during the testing period
- 3–5 measurements on the testing site (“AFTER testing”)
Equipment
- Demaflex / Dermalab (Cortex Technologies)
- Soft FX (Callegari, 1930)
- EVE M Panoramic AI skin analyzer
Signs of skin barrier improvement
Signs of skin barrier improvement
Improvements in the skin barrier may take time, and individual results can vary based on factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and specific skincare routine. Most common improvements are reduced sensitivity, less redness and irritation, improved hydration.
Using gentle, barrier-supporting skincare products, as well as protecting skin from environmental stressors, is key to improved skin barrier.
Claims related to skin barrier
- Skin barrier improvement
- Soothing
- Repairing effect
Measurement principles and instruments
Measurement principles and instruments
To prove skin barrier claims we measure the following parameters using the following instruments:
- Evaluation of TEWL
- Cortex DermaLab Combo SkinLab (Cortex Technology)
See our results
Skin barrier
Skin barrier
Skin barrier function is protective layer that acts as the first line of defence against external environmental factors, moisture loss, and pathogens. Is it composed of specialized skin cells and lipids that work together to maintain the skin's health and integrity.
Lipid barrier is vital component of skin barrier function. It is composed of ceramides, lipids, and fatty acids, which form a protective layer and help prevent excessive water loss and maintain skin hydration.
Corneocytes (dead skin cells in stratum corneum) and natural moisturizing factors (amino acids, urea) also help to retain water in the skin.
pH balance is important for maintaining skin barrier function and it should be mildly acidic.
A protocol built for your claims.
Efficacy testing protocol is prepared for each product individually with close cooperation with the sponsor. Based on the claims, usage regime and efficacy expectations, we prepare a protocol that is suitable for the type of product and can confirm product efficacy. The studies can be performed over a different time period (from a few days to several weeks or months) depending on the claim and type of measurement.
Ready to substantiate your skin barrier claims?
Speak with our testing experts about an efficacy study tailored to your product's claims, usage regime and timeline.
