Ensuring the safety of cosmetics requires a comprehensive, risk-based approach that integrates predictive, experimental, clinical, and regulatory methodologies. The concept of cosmeceuticals is gaining widespread recognition, and a parallel rise in interest is observed for nutraceuticals, which are increasingly utilized in cosmeceutical product development. The increasing complexity of cosmetic formulations, also considering higher consumer expectations and stricter regulatory requirements, has highlighted the need for integrated assessment strategies. Predictive modeling, including in silico toxicology and computational chemistry, serves as a first line of cosmetic safety evaluation, allowing formulators to anticipate potential hazards before experimental testing. Complementary in vitro and ex vivo studies provide mechanistic insights and help confirm these predictions, while human clinical trials validate the safety, tolerability, and real-world performance of formulations. At the same time, adherence to regulatory guidelines is essential to ensure compliance, facilitate market access, and maintain consumer trust. By combining predictive, experimental, and clinical approaches within a structured risk assessment framework, researchers and industry professionals can conduct more reliable, efficient, and ethically responsible evaluations. This integrated methodology also supports innovation, enabling the development of novel cosmetic products while minimizing adverse effects and following principles of safety-by-design.

This Research Topic aims to highlight integrated strategies for assessing the safety of cosmetic ingredients and products, spanning predictive modeling, experimental evaluation, and regulatory compliance. Bringing together multidisciplinary expertise—from toxicology and dermatology to data science and regulatory affairs - this Research Topic promotes the implementation of scientifically rigorous, ethical, and sustainable strategies for the modern safety evaluation of cosmetic ingredients and formulations. Contributions may include novel predictive approaches, in vitro and ex vivo experimental studies, clinical safety assessments, and case studies illustrating compliance with regulatory frameworks. The ultimate objective is to advance knowledge and support the implementation of scientifically robust, ethically responsible, and innovation-driven safety assessment practices in the cosmetic field.

This Research Topic invites contributions that explore the full spectrum of cosmetic risk assessment, emphasizing integrated and multidisciplinary approaches. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

· predictive toxicology and modeling (in silico approaches, QSAR and AI-based modeling, and integrated data analysis for risk prediction);

· clinical and translational validation (clinical trials for skin compatibility and tolerance in vitro and ex vivo safety evaluation);

· regulatory science and risk management;

· innovation and sustainability in cosmetic development;

· development of new methodologies for safety assessment and risk-benefit analysis.

The collection aims to provide a comprehensive view of current challenges and innovative solutions in cosmetic safety, offering practical guidance for researchers, industry professionals, and regulators.

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Integrated Approaches to Cosmetic Safety: From Predictive Modeling and Experimental Assessment to Clinical Validation and Regulatory Compliance