The modern dynamic cosmetic market is more than ever driving toward more correct, efficient and ethical testing. One of the most intriguing advances is the use of a microfluidic chip for cosmetic testing, and more specifically a skin-on-chip for cosmetic testing setup. The systems are redefining the way we assess the safety as well as the performance of creams, serums as well as other skincare formulas.
The basics of how it works
A microfluidic chip is in essence simply a miniature chip made of small channels and chambers that are able to regulate the flow of very small amounts of liquid. In the context of cosmetic testing the microfluidic chip for cosmetic testing allows researchers to simulate physiological conditions such as blood flow or nutrient supply, while exposing skin tissue or skin-model material to test products.
The advantage is evident: you receive a regulated micro-environment in which you can accurately measure the behaviour of ingredients with skin, penetration between layers or provoking reactions.
When we talk about a skin-on-chip for cosmetic testing we take it a step further. The technology applies a bioengineered chip that recreates various layers of human skin and incorporates microfluidic flow.
Why it matters in cosmetics
Using a microfluidic chip for cosmetic testing brings several advantages. To begin with, the model flow within the chip makes the deposition of the nutrient and reagents more realistic and the elimination of the waste products, which is closer to the in-vivo conditions. This enhances the accuracy of the results compared to the non-evolving models. Secondly, the skin-on-chip for cosmetic testing greatly improves fidelity. You’re dealing not just with a flat culture dish, but a system mimicking real skin architecture and function.
Speed and throughput is also another advantage. Due to the very small volumes and highly controllable flows in microfluidic channels, experiments may be efficiently run with less waste and increased reproducibility.
How the process typically unfolds
A microfluidic device is first loaded with a skin model chip or a real skin explant inside one of the chambers of the microfluidic device. The circulation is initiated by the flow of nutrient medium. Afterwards, the cosmetic formulation is applied topically or injected into the channels depending on the study design. Samples are taken of the out-flow or samples of sensors on the chip over a set period of time. Measurements could comprise the depth of penetration of active ingredients, the condition of the barrier (such as electrical resistance), irritation endpoints, visual imaging of cells and layers, and other useful functional endpoints.
What to look for when choosing a system
In considering a system in which you are interested in the compatibility of the skin model (is it capable of supporting human skin explants, reconstructed skin, synthetic membranes), the flexibility of the microfluidic flow rate, the simplicity of sampling, the ability to simulate topical versus systemic exposure and the demonstration that your system matches more thoroughly established methods. A robust skin-on-chip for cosmetic testing platform should allow you to simulate realistic in-vivo conditions, provide meaningful data and reduce reliance on outdated models.
Conclusion
The adoption of a microfluidic chip for cosmetic testing and a skin-on-chip for cosmetic testing marks a significant leap forward for the cosmetics industry. The technologies provide superior, more human-relevant data, are more ethical and allow quicker innovation. Medelink is one of the most prominent companies that can offer organisations solutions that are on the frontline in cosmetic testing. Learn how the high-technology platforms of Medelink can take your cosmetic testing plan to the next level and assist you in remaining competitive in the market.