In vitro skin three-dimensional models and their applications

Skin fulfils a plethora of eminent physiological functions ranging from physical barrier over immunity shield to the interface mediating social interaction. Prone to several acquired and inherited diseases, skin is therefore a major target of pharmaceutical and cosmetic research. The lack of similarity between human and animal skin and rising ethical concerns in the use of animal models have driven the search for novel realistic three-dimensional skin models. This review provides a survey of contemporary skin models and compares them in terms of applicability, reliability, cost and complexity.