Difficult-to-test samples: Natural Complex Substances and Cosmetic Formulations

Join us for the second webinar in our series, further exploring the challenges and opportunities of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) for in vitro skin sensitization potency testing, with a special focus on difficult-to-test substances.

In this session, Dr Julie Anne Cote from The Honest Company, Dr Isabelle Lee from the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM), and Dr Andy Forreryd from SenzaGen will present new GARD^® data and case studies on Natural Complex Substances and Cosmetic Formulations.

You will gain insight into how GARD^® skin Dose-Response, a single-assay method based on genomics and machine-learning technology, performs on natural complex mixtures and supports critical decision-making during product development. Specifically, you will learn how it can:

• Detect low levels of sensitizers in complex cosmetic formulations.
• Define safe dose levels.
• Guide formulation optimization decisions.

With broad applicability to complex mixtures and novel raw materials with challenging properties, GARD® provides a powerful non-animal solution for assessing skin sensitization potency.

Key topics

• Introduction to the genomics and machine-learning based GARD^® technology for in vitro skin sensitization potency assessment.
• Performance evaluation of the GARD^® skin Dose-Response assay for natural complex fragrance ingredients.
• Case studies on Natural Complex Substances and Cosmetic Formulations.

The webinar will last around 45 minutes, followed by a live Q&A. If you cannot attend the live event, make sure to register to get access to the recording.

Speakers

Andy Forreryd, PhD
Scientific Liaison Manager @ SenzaGen

• Co-developer of the GARD^®skin assay (OECD TG 442E).
• Member of the ISO/TC 194/WG 8 on irritation and sensitization.
• Member of OECD expert group on respiratory sensitization.

GARD^® for in vitro skin sensitization potency assessment

Isabelle Lee, PhD
Manager of Human Health Science & Strategy @ RIFM

• Leads human health science and strategy, advancing NAMs for ingredient safety.
• Head of skin sensitization team, overseeing safety assessments and research programs.
• Expert in consumer product ingredient evaluation with a PhD in Pharmacology (UPenn).

Analysis of natural complex fragrance ingredients in the GARDskin Dose-Response assay

Julie Anne Cote, PhD
Sr. Clinical & Safety Compliance Research Scientist @ The Honest Company

• Leads safety, clinical testing, and product claim substantiation across multiple product categories.
• Expert in personal care and consumer goods safety compliance, including baby care, beauty, and feminine hygiene.
• Combines scientific expertise and compliance leadership to effectively translate complex data into transparent, science-backed consumer messaging.

Skin sensitization potency assessment of complex cosmetic formulations