COSMETIC STINGING TEST
REQUEST MORE INFORMATIONCOSMETIC
STINGING
TEST
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Assessment of
subjective sensations

Volunteers with
reactive skin

Support for comfort and
sensitive skin claims
WHAT IS A STINGING TEST?
The Stinging Test focuses specifically on assessing these subjective sensations, which may occur after the application of certain products even in the absence of observable skin reactions.
The study is carried out on volunteers who are more predisposed to this type of response, with the product applied to particularly sensitive areas such as the nasolabial fold. Throughout the test, participants record the intensity of the sensations perceived at different time intervals using predefined scales.This type of assessment is particularly relevant in the development of facial products and formulations intended for sensitive skin, where comfort in use is a critical factor in the productâs success on the market.

WHY PERFORM A STINGING TEST?

Comfort in use
Assesses the perception of the product during and after application.

Sensitive skin
Provides key information for formulations intended for reactive skin.

Early detection
Identifies sensations that do not manifest as visible clinical signs.

Cosmetic claims
Provides technical support for tolerance and comfort claims.

Confidence
Strengthens acceptance of the product by the end consumer.
WHICH PRODUCTS CAN BE ASSESSED?

Facial emulsions

Products for sensitive skin

Facial dermocosmetics

Eye contour products

Products with exfoliating active ingredients

Facial cleansing products
HOW IS THE TEST CARRIED OUT?

Protocol definition
The study design is established according to the product characteristics, application area and assessment objectives.

Volunteer selection
The study is carried out on individuals who are more predisposed to experience this type of sensation.

Product application
The product is applied to particularly sensitive areas, such as the nasolabial fold.

Recording of sensations
Participants rate the intensity of the sensations perceived at different time intervals using defined scales.

Assessment and technical report
The results obtained are analysed and a report containing the study conclusions is issued.
Why choose AITEX for your Stinging Test studies?

SPECIALISED ASSESSMENT OF SENSORY RESPONSE
Assessing subjective sensations such as stinging, itching or burning requires careful study design and rigorous interpretation of the results, as these perceptions do not always translate into observable clinical signs.
This approach provides technical insight into aspects that consumers perceive immediately after product application and that directly influence repeat purchase and brand loyalty, even where they do not result in visible clinical signs or skin reactions detectable by other tests.
APPROACH FOCUSED ON PRODUCTS FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
The Stinging Test is particularly valuable for formulations intended for reactive skin, facial products and cosmetics containing highly active ingredients (such as acids, retinoids or exfoliants), where the balance between efficacy and comfort in use is key to the productâs commercial success.
The study is carried out on individuals who are more predisposed to this type of response and on highly sensitive areas, such as the nasolabial fold. This makes it possible to assess product behaviour under the most demanding conditions, anticipate potential issues before market launch and strengthen end-consumer confidence in the formulation.


EXPERTISE AND COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE FOR THE COSMETICS INDUSTRY
AITEX supports cosmetics manufacturers and brands throughout the product assessment process, from protocol design to the issue of the final report. The Stinging Test can be combined with other skin tolerance, safety, efficacy and microbiological control studies to create a comprehensive testing strategy tailored to the specific needs of each formulation.
This comprehensive approach enables tests to be planned in a staged and efficient manner, while bringing sensory, dermatological and efficacy validation of the product together with a single provider, simplifying technical management and cosmetic product development timelines.
FAQS ABOUT THE STINGING TEST
What is a Stinging Test?
It is a test that assesses subjective sensations such as stinging, itching or burning after the application of a cosmetic product.
What is the difference between a Stinging Test and a Patch Test?
The Patch Test assesses skin tolerance based on observable clinical signs. The Stinging Test focuses on sensations perceived by the individual, which may occur even when there are no visible signs.
Who takes part in the study?
It is carried out on volunteers who are more predisposed to experience this type of sensory response.
Where is the product applied?
On particularly sensitive areas, usually the nasolabial fold.
How are the sensations assessed?
Participants record the intensity of the sensations perceived at different time intervals using predefined scales.
For which products is it particularly recommended?
For facial products and formulations intended for sensitive skin, where comfort in use is a critical factor.
Can it support cosmetic claims?
Yes. The results provide technical support for claims relating to the productâs tolerance and comfort in use.
Can it be combined with other safety tests?
Yes. It can be incorporated into a staged strategy alongside other skin tolerance and compatibility studies.
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INFORMATION
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