Last updated in 1991, Irene Malbin, spokesperson for the CTFA, said that the organisation was seeking comment from the industry with the aim of garnering all relevant and updated information, and in particularly the latest methods for in vitro testing.
The CTFA says it is requesting public comments by the end of the month (October 31) to find out if there are any specific areas of the current testing guidelines that have given rise for any concerns.
The Introduction to Safety Evaluation Guidelines will cover both dermal and eye irritation tests for in vivo, in vitro, and clinical test methods for evaluating irritation potential.
The CTFA says the guidelines will provide manufacturers with a clear indication for the use of preclinical and clinical testing as a means to substantiate the safety of both ingredients and finished cosmetic products, forming part of the CTFA Technical Guidelines series.
As part of formal procedures, each CFTA Guideline regularly undergoes an extensive development and review process by the organisation's technical committees and staff, together with a public review by CTFA member companies, federal agencies and scientific professional societies.
The deadline for the public comments is October 31 and a draft copy can be obtained by contacting the CTFA Public Affairs Department.