Hair & Skin Biology
Hair & Skin Biology
Combining physiologically relevant human test systems with high-resolution imaging to accelerate the development of cosmetic actives, nutraceuticals, and dermatological formulations.
Anti-Ageing & Cellular Rejuvenation:
Substantiate anti-ageing, firming, and longevity claims through mechanistic cellular assays targeting structural breakdown and oxidative stress:
Collagen & Elastin Induction:
Quantitative measurement of Type I Collagen, Elastin, and Hyaluronic Acid (HA) synthesis in human dermal fibroblasts to evaluate structural restoration and firmness.
MMP Inhibition & Matrix Protection:
Assessment of matrix metalloproteinase inhibition (MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-9) to validate photo-ageing protection and extracellular matrix preservation.
Antioxidant Efficacy:
DCFH-DA probe assays in keratinocytes and fibroblasts to quantify reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging capacity.
Anti-Glycation Biology:
Evaluation of Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs) inhibition to support “anti-sugar ageing” and “inner beauty” nutraceutical positioning.
Pigmentation & Skin Brightening:
Map the complete melanogenesis cascade from enzymatic synthesis to cellular transfer:
Melanogenesis Inhibition:
Direct quantification of melanin content and Tyrosinase activity in primary human melanocytes and B16F10 melanoma cell models.
Melanosome Transfer Assays:
Physiological co-culture models (melanocytes paired with keratinocytes) to assess the blockade of melanosome transfer.
Ex Vivo Skin Blanching:
Direct topical application on pigmented human skin explants to demonstrate visible brightening under real tissue architecture.
Skin Barrier Function & Hydration:
Quantify structural integrity and moisture transport using 3D Reconstructed Human Epidermis (RHE) and human ex vivo skin:
Structural Barrier Biomarkers:
High-end immunohistochemistry (IHC) evaluating the expression of tight junction and envelope proteins including Filaggrin, Loricrin, and Claudins.
Hydration Dynamics:
Quantitative spatial analysis of Aquaporin-3 water channels and Hyaluronic Acid distribution.
Advanced In-House Imaging:
Whole-slide tissue scanning via AxioScan Z1 and high-content structural resolution using ImageXpress Micro Confocal.
Multiparametric Image Analysis:
Numerical, claim-ready data on moisture retention and barrier competence.
Photobiology & Environmental Stress:
Simulate real-world exposure conditions across 2D cultures, 3D reconstructed tissues, and human ex vivo explants:
Full-Spectrum Irradiation:
Precise dose-controlled exposure across UV-A, UV-B, UV-C, and High-Energy Visible (HEV) Blue Light.
Photo-ageing & Matrix Damage:
Quantification of UV-induced collagen breakdown, elastin degradation, and MMP upregulation.
Cellular Stress & DNA Repair:
Measurement of Cyclobutane Pyrimidine Dimers (CPDs / DNA damage), ROS generation, inflammatory cascades, and recovery kinetics.
Photoprotection & Brightening Claims:
Translatable data packages formatted for regulatory documentation and marketing substantiation.
Hair Biology & Scalp Health:
Comprehensive testing covering follicular stimulation, androgen pathways, and scalp microbiome balance:
Dermal Papilla Cell (DPC) Proliferation:
Validation of follicle activation and hair cycle growth stimulation.
Growth Factor Profiling:
ELISA quantification of key follicular signalling drivers: VEGF, IGF-1, and Keratinocyte Growth Factor (KGF).
5-Alpha Reductase Inhibition:
Assessment of testosterone-to-DHT conversion blockade for anti-hair fall and androgenic alopecia formulations.
Scalp Anti-Inflammatory Assays:
Profiling of calming biomarkers including IL-1α, IL-6, and IL-8 in scalp-derived cells.
Scalp Microbiome Studies:
Antimicrobial and balancing efficacy against key scalp microflora, including Malassezia (dandruff) and Cutibacterium acnes.
