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Updated: Jul 5, 2026

In Vitro and In Vivo Approaches to Determine Intestinal Epithelial Cell Permeability
Published on: October 19, 2018
In vitro skin permeation evaluation: the only realistic option
K A Walters1, A C Watkinson, K R Brain
1An-eX analytical services Ltd, Redwood Building, King Edward VIIAvenue, Cardiff, UK.
This study quantifies dermal absorption of cosmetic ingredients using in vitro human skin permeation tests. These methods support cruelty-free risk assessment for cosmetic formulations, ensuring consumer safety.
Area of Science:
- Dermal toxicology
- Cosmetic science
- In vitro testing
Background:
- Growing demand for cruelty-free cosmetic risk assessment.
- Need for reliable methods to evaluate ingredient dermal absorption.
- In vitro human skin permeation assays offer an alternative to animal testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify in vitro human skin permeation rates of cosmetic ingredients.
- To assess the dermal absorption of specific cosmetic ingredients and potential contaminants.
- To evaluate the utility of in vitro skin permeation assays for cosmetic risk assessment.
Main Methods:
- Modified standard in vitro protocols for human skin permeation.
- Determination of permeation rates for octyl salicylate, nonylphenol ethoxylates, and nitrosamines.
- Simulating consumer use conditions during testing.
Main Results:
- Quantified skin permeation rates for tested cosmetic ingredients and contaminants.
- Demonstrated significant dermal absorption for octyl salicylate and nonylphenol ethoxylates.
- Identified nitrosamines as potential dermal penetration risks.
Conclusions:
- In vitro human skin permeation assays are valuable for cosmetic risk assessment.
- The methodology effectively predicts potential dermal absorption of cosmetic ingredients.
- This approach supports the development of safer cosmetic products without animal testing.
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