gen2-SCA: Skin Composition Analyzer

My RiverD

Skin Composition Analyzer

Unmatched speed & precision for in vivo skin analysis

In vivo skin analysis

The gen2-SCA Skin Composition Analyzer is a highly sensitive confocal Raman system for in vivo skin analysis. The RiverICon instrument control software calculates and shows molecular concentration profiles during data collection. The SkinTools3 software is available for comprehensive offline data-analysis.

The gen2-SCA uses red and near-infrared laser light and complies with international standards for safe laser light exposure of the skin. All "Raman-expertise" is inside, which makes the gen2-SCA very easy-to-operate: switch on, auto-calibrate, and start collecting data.

Applications

From molecular skin analysis to quantitative product insights

RiverD applications focus on generating objective, molecular-level insight into skin and product behavior. By combining non-invasive measurement with high chemical specificity, RiverD supports both fundamental skin research and applied product evaluation, bridging the gap between scientific insight and real-world product performance.

Molecular Skin Analysis

RiverD enables non-invasive molecular characterization of human skin, providing objective insight into:

skin ageing processes
effects of sun exposure
molecular differences between anatomical skin sites
skin response to topical products

Product Penetration & Interaction

Track how and where products interact with the skin at the molecular level, supporting:

penetration profiling
comparison of formulations
objective assessment of product performance

Key use cases

From formulation design to validated product claims

RiverD technology supports formulation development and skin research by enabling non-invasive, molecular-level analysis of skin composition and product penetration. Combined with advanced data analysis software, the gen2-SCA provides robust, reproducible data to support data-driven decision-making in R&D and product evaluation.

Product Development

formulation optimization
personal care & cosmetic products
transdermal drug delivery systems

Product Testing & Validation

claims substantiation
bioequivalence studies

Toxicology

non-invasive safety and exposure assessment

Examples of anatomical locations accessible by the gen2-SCA

Why RiverD's gen2-SCA?

Non-invasive, in vivo skin measurements

The gen2-SCA enables in vivo and non-invasive molecular measurements in the skin, without the need for biopsies or invasive sampling. This allows real-time insight into skin composition and product interaction, supporting more relevant and translatable data compared to ex vivo or in vitro methods.

Easy to operate, research- and industry-ready

The gen2-SCA is designed for ease of use without compromising scientific rigor. Automated workflows, standardized measurement protocols, and reproducible data output make the system accessible to both academic researchers and industrial R&D teams. Its robust design supports routine use in product development, testing, and regulatory-oriented studies.

Label-free, no reagents required

Based on Raman spectroscopy, the gen2-SCA performs non-invasive, label- and reagent-free measurements without requiring sample preparation. This approach reduces variability, and enables repeated measurements on the same subject, ideal for longitudinal studies, product comparison, and claims substantiation.

No Raman spectroscopy expertise required

The gen2-SCA is designed for intuitive operation and does not require prior expertise in Raman spectroscopy. Integrated software workflows guide users through measurement and analysis, supported by a dedicated two-day operator training that ensures confident and reliable use in daily operation.

Our Learning center

Want to know more about our products and research? Discover the information in our learning center:

About our learning center

Your gateway to knowledge, resources, and best practices in Raman spectroscopy and skin research. Here you’ll find everything you need to deepen your understanding of our technologies, explore real-world applications, and stay informed about the latest scientific developments.

Whether you’re new to Raman-based measurements or an experienced researcher, the Learning Center brings together our tutorials, publications, brochures, and application notes in one place. Each resource is designed to support your work, help you interpret results with confidence, and make the most of RiverD’s instruments and software.

Explore our educational materials, discover new insights, and learn how RiverD’s technologies are transforming non-invasive skin analysis.