Innovative Strategies for Photoallergy Assessment: Breaking Free from Animal Models in Cosmetic Ingredient Development

Photoallergy, a unique form of skin sensitization induced by specific compounds under

ultraviolet irradiation, has traditionally been investigated using animals. However, the prohibition of

animal testing for the assessment of cosmetic ingredients in Europe and other countries underscores

the necessity for in vitro or in silico alternative methods. Currently, there are no validated methods for

assessing photoallergy or photosensitization, presenting a significant challenge in the development of

new cosmetic ingredients. This review examines the landscape of alternative methods for detecting

photosensitization, emphasizing recent publications, and considering the underlying principles of

the different proposed assays.