ExAdEx-Innov at the International Symposium by SFC 2025

ExAdEx-Innov proudly contributed to the 19th International Symposium “Cosmetic Science: Shaping the Future” organized by the Société Française de Cosmétologie (SFC) in Paris on December 2–3, 2025

Body-Site-Specific Tissue Insights

Facial skin has distinct features compared to other body regions, and its layers undergo critical changes with aging and stress. These alterations contribute to cosmetic concerns such as dark circles, under-eye fluid accumulation, and loss of firmness. Current in vitro models often fail to reproduce facial area-specific characteristics, including 3D vascular network, extracellular matrix (ECM) responses, and the supporting hypodermal layer. This limits accurate cosmetic evaluation. To address these gaps, we characterized 3D ex vivo vascularized human tissue models derived from different subcutaneous body sites to identify site-specific characteristics relevant for skincare development.

Our presentation in the “New Tools” session showcased 3D vascularized ex vivo human tissue models derived from facial and abdominal areas. These models reveal critical body-site-specific differences in tissue energy metabolism, vascular/lymphatic networks, and extracellular matrix composition, key factors for precise dermo-cosmetic ingredient evaluation.

From facial and abdominal tissues to targeted claims

Abdominal tissues showed higher metabolic activity, whereas facial tissues exhibited specific ECM gene expression and protein secretion profiles known to be altered during aging, consistent with distinct biological roles. Additionally, by mimicking aging-related changes, such as reduced procollagen Iα secretion, we induced a facial-like phenotype in abdominal-derived models

Our approach contributes to the reduction of animal use by offering advanced, human‑based models that align with evolving regulatory expectations and societal demand for more ethical testing strategies.

By capturing distinct features of tissue energy metabolism, vascular and lymphatic networks, and extracellular matrix remodeling, our models support the design of targeted, site‑relevant claims for products addressing dark circles, under‑eye bags, firmness, elasticity, cellulite, and visible signs of aging.

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