Cosmetic efficacy testing makes it possible to support product claims with technical and documentary evidence, enhancing product performance and strengthening consistency between communication, formulation and supporting documentation.

Testing protocols may be designed for the most common cosmetic claims or developed on a customised basis according to the specific statement intended for use on labels, in commercial materials or in promotional communication.

Testing for Standard and Custom Cosmetic Claims

Tests may be designed to support common claims such as:

• moisturising
• nourishing
• elasticity
• soothing effect
• purifying action
• sebum-regulating action
• radiance
• smoothing effect
• softness
• anti-ageing effect
• hair protection and disciplining effect
• anti-frizz effect

In addition to standard protocols, customised efficacy tests may be developed according to the product, the target consumer and the claim to be substantiated. This makes it possible to create a testing pathway that is more closely aligned with the project and more useful from both a documentary and commercial perspective.

Qualified Laboratories for Cosmetic Efficacy Testing

Tests are carried out by accredited university laboratories or by leading private laboratories in the cosmetic sector, selected according to the product type, the claim to be supported and the most appropriate testing method.

Choosing the right protocol and laboratory is a key step in obtaining results that are consistent with the product’s objectives and with the level of evidence required.

Cosmetic Claims and Scientific Support

In the cosmetic sector, claims cannot be used in a generic or purely promotional way. The European framework for cosmetic claims is based on Article 20 of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and Regulation (EU) No 655/2013, which lays down common criteria such as truthfulness, honesty, fairness and adequate evidential support.

For this reason, cosmetic efficacy testing is an essential tool whenever a product is presented with specific benefits. It helps build stronger supporting documentation, makes claims more defensible and reduces the risk of objections.

Risks Associated with Unsupported Claims

The use of claims that are not properly substantiated may expose the operator to objections, requests to amend product communication, intervention by the competent authorities and the penalties provided for under the applicable legislation.

For this reason, testing should be considered an important part of the overall claim support strategy, especially when product communication relies on specific performance, visible effects or distinctive benefits.

Request Information on Cosmetic Efficacy Testing

Companies wishing to support their cosmetic claims with targeted testing, whether standard or customised, may request information through the contact form.

A preliminary assessment makes it possible to identify the most suitable approach based on the product, the claim to be substantiated and the objectives of the project.