The Cosmetology Research and Testing Laboratory, the first comprehensive and independent facility dedicated for validating cosmetics in India was opened on yesterday in Mumbai. This laboratory of The Kelkar Education Trust's Scientific Research Centre, was inaugurated by Shri Radheshyam Agarwal, Chairman of the Emami Group of Companies.

The laboratory provides the cosmetic industry with state-of-the-art facilities for screening of herbs for cosmetic activity, formulation development, in vitro safety testing (using cell cultures as an alternative to animal testing) and efficacy testing of cosmetics. The lab offers services for development of anti-wrinkle, skin whitening and anti acne products, cleansers, moisturizers, deodorants and other cosmeceuticals.

It is equipped with imported sophisticated instruments for efficacy testing. These include instruments for evaluation of different skin parameters like depth of wrinkles, melanin index, dryness of skin, elasticity of skin etc.

The animal cell culture facility is a class 10,000 clean room area equipped with biosafety cabinet for testing on cell lines. It also houses facility for maintenance of cell lines like ultra low temperature deep freezers and cryopreservation equipment. The lab is equipped to meet the developmental and testing needs of the cosmetic industry.

The mission of the Kelkar Education Trust, which is a non-profit organization, is to provide service to the industry in enhancing the quality of their products for the Indian and export market. Another important service provided by the lab is training in the area of cosmetics. The lab has highly qualified and trained personnel in different areas of specialization.