NWTC UK Laboratory > Substrate Analysis

Substrate Analysis

Most claims regarding the efficacy of products are generally made following user trials, NWTC is able to provide the proof to substantiate the findings of a user trial in a number of different ways. Using a powerful combination of topographical and chemical analysis using a range of techniques we are able to help you to understand how your product interacts with the intended substrate. We can also provide objective testing of hair for properties such as frizz or shine allowing the customer to evaluate new formulations and competitor's products.

Examples of this unique and niche service are given below:
SEM/EDX elemental analysis can also be used to show the deposition of Silicone from a hair conditioner product.

This powerful technique can also be applied to demonstrate the damage / repair of a hair product.

This type of analysis can be applied to cover a complete range of applications and compounds of interest including the following:
  • Tape stripping of skin to determine active levels e.g Aluminium
  • Saliva, plaque analysis for ingredients such as Triclosan
  • Fluoride, Zinc determine in a variety of substrates
  • FTIR-ATR analysis of skin to determine presence of specific organic species
  • Biopsy analysis of scalp tissue.
  • Hair dye, deposition and ingress into the hair core
  • Deposition studies using XRF
  • Frizz and shine testing on hair samples to evaluate effectiveness of products.

 

In Vitro Skin Testing

Assessment of the dermal absorption and percutaneous penetration behaviour are essential components of the risk assessment for chemicals, cosmetics, personal care and home care products that may make contact with the skin. Furthermore, in compliance with the REACH directive (EC 1907/2006) and the 7th Amendment to the EU Cosmetics Directive (Article 4a) it is necessary for developers and manufacturers to employ in vitro methods for this safety testing. Intertek provides high quality customer-focused services for both skin irritation and corrosion employing validated, in vitro methods for a wide range of cosmetics, raw materials and personal care products. Intertek uses in vitro skin models to study the potential cytotoxic effects of skin applied treatments or chemicals. The models, based on human reconstructed epidermis which approximates the barrier of normal human skin. Topical application of a substance mimics the route of human exposure and ECVAM validated methods for Skin irritancy and corrosion can be carried out using these skin models.

Please contact us to confidentially discuss your analysis requirements.

SEM Image of Hair Showing Cuticles
SEM image of hair fibre after treatment using a particular product


Optical Microscopy of Hair in Cross Section
Optical image of hair cross section showing presence of henna in some fibres
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Bebington, Wirral
CH63 3JW UK