Following the resounding success of its first four editions, which most recently gathered over 230 participants from across the globe, the International Cosmetotest Symposium is returning to Lyon. Scheduled for March 18-19, 2026, at the ENS Jacques Monod and in a digital format, this event remains the only summit exclusively dedicated to the preclinical and clinical testing of active ingredients and finished products.
We spoke with Anne Charpentier, CEO of Skinobs, to understand why this 5th edition is set to be a milestone for the international scientific community.
Anne Charpentier, Cosmetotest has become a landmark event. What is the vision behind this 2026 edition?
A.C.: “Cosmetotest has truly found its place in the international ecosystem of cosmetic performance evaluation. My vision has always been to create a specialized ‘hub’ where science meets industry. In 2026, we are continuing this mission by offering a panoramic view of the sector. What I appreciate most is the intensity and conviviality of these two days; it’s a unique opportunity for professionals from Europe, Asia, and beyond to deep-dive into the themes that are currently at the heart of global evaluation.”
The symposium is famous for its “360-degree” approach. Can you describe the technological ecosystem participants will find in Lyon?
A.C.: “It is much more than a series of lectures. It is a complete scientific and technological ecosystem. This year, we are hosting over 30 exhibitors, bringing together the most influential names in the testing world. This allows participants to see, touch, and test the innovations of tomorrow.”
- Testing Partners (CROs): Industry giants and specialists such as Biomeca, Biomnigene, Byome Labs, Cliantha Research, DWI Labs, Goya Innova, Eurofins, Inovapotek, J.S. Hamilton, Loretta Biotech, Molecularis, OloBion, PKDerm, PHD Trials, Qima, SGS proderm, Sequential, Ten Bio, Vaiomer, Vibiosphen and Zurko Research will be present to showcase the latest in-vitro, ex-vivo, and in-vivo solutions.
- Instrumentation Manufacturers: Leading innovators like Ascilion, Canfield, Cortex, Damae Medical, Delfin, Eotech, Miravex, Monaderm, Orion Concept Technolab, Pixience, Qima, RiverD, Scibase will perform live demonstrations of cutting-edge measurement devices.
Could you reveal the four scientific pillars that will define the 2026 program?
A.C.: “Every year, we select four new themes addressed through academic lectures, technological presentations, and ‘short-talks’ from our exhibitors. For 2026, we have a very strong lineup.
On Wednesday, March 18, we will open with Session 1: The Exposome, evaluating impacts on skin and hair with Anne Sirvent – Eurofins, Maya Naboulsi – Clarins, Dr. Simran Sethi – Cliantha Research, Philippe Papadimitriou – Cosystems, Elodie Prestat-Marquis – Naos.
This will be followed by Session 2: Hormones, measuring their influence on cutaneous and capillary physiology, with Sébastien Grégoire, Juliette Sage – LVMH Research, Abdel Aouacheria – CNRS, Salvatore Del Prete – Service Biotech, Edouard Macé – Eotech.
On Thursday, March 19, we start with Session 1: Hydration, with Hassan Zahouani – LTDS, Lieve Declerc – Proya, and a new roundtable of experts dedicated to the session. We will conclude with Session 2: Skin & Brain, with Dr. Haykal, Mathilde de Torsiac – Sisley, Eloïse Appelmans Gerardin – Brain Impact Science, Edith Filaire – ICARE, Axel de Marles – Senseva, Magalie Cabannes – Greentech.
Why should an R&D or Evaluation Manager prioritize Cosmetotest 2026 in their calendar?
A.C.: “Because it is the only place where you can get a comprehensive update on both preclinical and clinical advancements in just 48 hours. Whether you are a brand looking for new claims, an ingredient supplier validating an active, or a researcher, the networking here is unparalleled. It is about fostering partnerships that move the entire industry toward safer, more effective, and more innovative products.”
Anne Charpentier – CEO Skinobs
acharpentier@skinobs.com
