ITB’s Innovative Cosmetics Laboratory: Advancing Safe, High-Quality, and Beneficial Products
By Chysara Rabani - Mahasiswa Teknik Pertambangan, 2022
Editor M. Naufal Hafizh, S.S.
BANDUNG, itb.ac.id – In response to the growing demand for safe and effective cosmetic products, the School of Pharmacy at Institut Teknologi Bandung (SP ITB) has launched the Innovative Cosmetics Laboratory as a dedicated center for integrated research and testing. Led by Dr. apt. Defri Rizaldy, S.Si, M.Si, the laboratory conducts comprehensive studies on cosmetics, starting from raw materials, product formulation, and their clinical effects on the skin.
This laboratory serves not only as an academic research facility but also as a hub for cross-disciplinary collaboration and partnerships with the cosmetics industry. Its core mission centers on scientific advancement in cosmetic development, evaluating safety, efficacy, functionality, and compliance with regulatory standards. Research is conducted on both semi-finished materials and final products to scientifically validate cosmetic safety and effectiveness.
“The Innovative Cosmetics Laboratory is not ITB’s first step in cosmetic research. Rather, it was established to consolidate existing resources and foster stronger, more impactful collaborations,” Dr. Defri explained.
A key approach embraced by the lab is “bench to customer”, translating lab-based research directly into products that benefit consumers. This means developing cosmetics rooted in scientific studies, ensuring the public uses products with clinically proven, effective ingredients.
The lab also provides testing services for industry clients and has collaborated with several local brands, including From This Island, Cosmax, and Wardah (PT Paragon Technology and Innovation). Much of the lab’s advanced equipment was donated by PT Paragon Technology and Innovation, reflecting the strength of industry-academic synergy.
Testing facilities include a sample preparation room, a clinical testing room for direct skin application, and a doctor’s examination room. The lab is equipped with advanced instruments such as the VisioFace RD for high-resolution facial imaging, the Cutometer Dual MPA 580 to measure skin elasticity, the Tewameter TM 300 and skin-pH-meter PH 90.5 to assess moisture and surface pH levels, and a Sebumeter to evaluate skin sebum levels.
Among the lab’s success stories is Eggshellent, an anti-aging serum developed using eggshell membrane extract. This innovative product harnesses natural components such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, and other proteins to improve skin elasticity, enhance moisture retention, and accelerate skin cell regeneration. Eggshellent has been registered as an Intellectual Property Right (IPR), reflecting the lab’s dedication to research-based product development.
Dr. Defri highlighted the critical role of science in the cosmetics industry today. “With so many viral cosmetic trends, consumers must understand that safety and effectiveness must be proven through scientific methods. A distribution permit is not just a formality, it’s a guarantee that the product is truly safe for use,” he said.
As cosmetic and personal care product use continues to rise, the SF ITB Innovative Cosmetics Laboratory aims to raise public awareness of the importance of rigorous scientific research in cosmetic development. Its ultimate goal is not only to create marketable products, but also those that genuinely promote skin health and well-being.
Translator: Nabila Puspita (Bioengineering, 2022)
