7. Frequently asked questions

How to choose between animal testing?

Until recently, the industry used the M&K test for active ingredients and, more often than not, the modified Buehler test for formulations.

The M&K is a maximization test, magnifying reactions in animals compared with humans. It sometimes gives false positives.

The Buehler test is closer to actual human exposure conditions. It is better suited to formulations and cosmetics, but can give false negatives.

What's more, as with skin irritation tests, both these tests require laboratories experienced in reading erythema and edema.

The LLNA test uses quantitative cell count or radioactivity measurements to assess the dose-response relationship. It therefore appears more reliable and is an alternative to the other two tests....