It confirms that a product has been dermatologically tested and proven to have a high level of skin compatibility and/or effectiveness.
Cosmetic products have long been an integral part of daily routines worldwide. About three-quarters of women and an increasing number of men use products such as cleansers, moisturizers and sun protection every day.
The SGS proderm certification mark provides assurance that your products are safe and effective. A symbol of high quality, the mark confirms that your product has been thoroughly tested, does not cause irritation or intolerance, and delivers on its promises. It tells consumers that your safety and efficacy claims are scientifically validated, transparent and trustworthy.
Demonstrate the safety and efficacy of your cosmetic products with the SGS proderm certification mark
- Increase consumer trust
Show that your product has been independently assessed using rigorous dermatological tests.
- Enhance brand credibility
Demonstrate that your company is serious about product quality.
- Reduce purchase hesitation among cautious buyers
Consumers with sensitive skin or other concerns will feel more confident purchasing your products.
- Differentiate your brand from competitors
The mark provides customers with immediate, visible proof of safety and performance claims.
What our mark certifies
- Dermatologically confirmed/dermatologically tested
The “dermatologically confirmed” or “dermatologically tested” seal adorns products that have been intensively tested for skin compatibility. This usually involves a patch test and a use study with at least 30 participants.
- Clinically tested with dentists
Our “clinically tested with dentists” seal confirms improved gum health after daily use. As part of a dermatological study, a dentist assessed dental-specific parameters at the beginning and end of treatment.
- Microbiome-friendly
Our “microbiome-friendly” seal confirms the compatibility of a cosmetic product, as objectively assessed by a dermatologist in a study that included 16S rRNA analysis, and tests for transepidermal water loss and skin pH.
- SPF tested
The “SPF tested” seal confirms the sun protection factor of a sunscreen product. Testing is based on internationally recognized guidelines, often ISO standard 24444:2019, which involves applying the sunscreen to participants' backs and exposing the skin areas to a calibrated solar simulator.
Why SGS?
As the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, we provide independent, trusted assurance of the safety and quality of your products. We support you through every stage of your product’s development, with services that provide your customers with peace of mind, help you ensure compliance and improve your brand reputation.
FAQ
Products that come into contact with your skin can cause irritation. Our seal gives you the assurance that the product has been tested and is compatible – and that advertised effects are scientifically proven.
All tests are carried out by qualified personnel using strict, recognized scientific methods.
As long as the product formulation remains unchanged, the product is considered certified.
A patch test checks the skin compatibility of a product by determining whether it causes irritation when in contact with the skin. The product, along with a comparison substance, is applied to study participants’ skin. Skin reactions are assessed according to a standardized scale – from “no reaction” to “severe redness with swelling”.
- Phase 1: Application of tested products under occlusive or semi-occlusive conditions
- Phase 2: Patch removal
- Phase 3: Visual scoring
Skin reactions are assessed according to a standardized scale – from “no reaction” to “severe redness with swelling”.
A use study tests the skin compatibility of a product under realistic conditions – as the consumer would use it at home. The aim is to determine whether the product is well tolerated during normal use and how it is rated by test subjects.
A trained grader assesses skin status before and after the use period
- Baseline visit: objective and subjective evaluation of skin status, application of the test product
- Use period: subjects use the product as described in the study protocol
- Final visit: assessment of tolerability by a trained grader and by the subjects themselves, subjective evaluation of product performance
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