FAQ

Cutest was first established as a spin-off from the University Hospital of Wales by Professor Ronnie Marks who was Head of Dermatology, Senior Researcher Dr Peter Dykes and Research fellow Tony Pearse. Since 1984 we have specialised in designing and conducting skin tests on volunteers. Volunteers initially express their interest in joining our volunteer panel by completing and returning the application forms. They will then be medically examined by a Consultant dermatologist before being approved to join our test panel. Once a volunteer has joined our test panel they may be notified if there are upcoming tests that they are eligible to become involved in. The volunteer will then decide if they wish to participate or not.

All cosmetic tests are carried out on the surface of the skin. The test area will most usually be the back, the arm or the face. All studies are conducted under the supervision of a doctor. The studies will be performed by our qualified study nurses, who will be supervised by a dermatologist.

We employ a Consultant ophthalmologist to supervise any studies near to, or including the eyes.

All studies are carried out under Good Clinical practice guidelines, and only after receiving ethical approval from an independent board.

We test products that regularly come into contact with the skin, for example body creams, face creams, washes, soaps, make-up, fragrances, sunscreens and many more.

There are two main reasons that a skin product may require testing. Firstly, before being launched onto the market it needs to be demonstrated that the product will not cause any skin reaction.

Secondly if the product is making a specific claim, for example ‘moisturising’, ‘suitable for sensitive skin’ or ‘no more tears’, then this must be scientifically proven.

There are a variety of tests available, but as an example, a frequently used test is an ‘Irritancy Test’. This involves wearing small test patches on the back. These are examined every two or three days for any sign of reaction. If a skin reaction develops the patch is taken off early. A reaction is like a small patch of eczema and usually disappears in a few days.

Our most common studies last between one day and four weeks, however the duration will vary according to particular project requirements.

If an adverse skin reaction to a product occurs our study nurses or dermatologists will discontinue the testing. The trial can also be discontinued at any time at the volunteer’s request.

What you earn depends on the length and type of the study. It will also be related to how often you were required to attend and the duration of your visits.

If you are suitable for a certain study then you may be contacted by telephone or post to see if you are interested in participating, but participation in any trial is entirely voluntary.

Initially you must complete some forms concerning your health, medical history and personal circumstances. You will also see the doctor at Cutest for a medical examination; they will also examine your skin and ask questions about any medication you are taking. All information collected will be regarded as strictly confidential.

When there is an upcoming study that you are suitable for you will be given written information about the test, and given the time to consider before being asked if you would like to take part. You will also be asked to sign a consent form. You are under no obligation to take part in any test and are free to withdraw from the Test Panel at any time.

When you come to Cutest for your medical examination you must bring with you all current medication. You will also need with you a document as proof of identification: this should be a form of photo identification such as photo driving license, passport, photo bus pass or a birth certificate. Please remove all nail varnish on fingers and toes to allow for an examination of your nails. You will be required to remove outer clothing (down to your underwear) for the doctor to carry out an examination of your skin.

All personal data is stored in accordance with the 1998 Data Protection Act (ICO registration number Z289581X).

It is important to note that the information provided will be used to assess your suitability for certain studies. If you are suitable for certain studies then you will be contacted by telephone or post to see if you are interested in participating.

Any information collected during the course of any studies you volunteer in may be looked at by responsible individuals from the Sponsor and Regulatory authorities. In this situation your identity will be protected and you will be known only by test panel number, subject number and/or initials.

You should be between 18 and 65 years of age – (Proof of identification will be required).

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