Skin Irritation and Corrosion

Skin Irritation and Corrosion

Reconstructed human epidermis models (RhE), replicating human epidermal characteristics, are gaining prominence in skin irritation and corrosion testing for cosmetics, chemicals, and pharmacotoxicology. RhE, adopted in 2004 for corrosion and 2010 for irritation, serves as an in vitro target organ. In irritation, RhE tests have replaced animal methods. For corrosion, validated methods like Rat Skin Trans Cutaneous Electrical Resistance (TER) and Corrositex® assay exist. RhE's wider use can be achieved through technological enhancements like automation and bioprinting, reducing animal components and enabling microfluidic techniques. In vivo testing is considered only as a last resort when in vitro methods are unsuitable or insufficient for regulatory needs.