At Cosmetic 360 (October 15-16, 2025, Paris), SGS, a global specialist in inspection, control, analysis and certification, will be presenting an unprecedented technological breakthrough: the reinvented use of an existing device to generate a precise image of skin hydration, and map and objectify the effectiveness of the skin's barrier function.
The SGS teams have succeeded in exploiting this device - previously used only to measure hydration - to produce a visual image of water loss, a direct marker of the state of health of the skin barrier.
SGS imaging technology not only visualizes changes in hydration, but also measures water loss under occlusion, then generates visuals ready to be used in communications to support claims such as "protects the skin" or "repairs the skin barrier".
A concrete response to new market expectations
Face, hand and body care products that protect and repair the skin barrier: until now, cosmetics brands have had few visual tools to scientifically demonstrate a product's ability to moisturize or strengthen the skin barrier. Traditional methods, often costly and not very visual, limited the evidence available to marketing teams, according to SGS. Over the past two to three years, however, brands have been increasingly demanding visual evidence of skincare performance.
The innovation developed by SGS responds to this trend by offering a rapid, non-invasive measurement system that is accessible to even the smallest brands. It can be easily integrated into existing clinical study protocols, without complicating or weighing down evaluation systems. An asset in both economic and environmental terms.
Proof-of-concept studies have been successfully carried out, with official market launch scheduled for March 2025, says the company.
"It's a real revolution for brands seeking to objectivize the benefits of their skincare products while producing convincing visual proof. Thanks to this device, we can scientifically demonstrate that the skin is better protected, less dry and that the effect of the cutaneous barrier is reinforced".stresses Georgios Stamatas, SGS Global Scientific Director.
