The present invention relates to the field of stem cell biology, in particular the linage specific differentiation of pluripotent or multipotent stem cells. Specifically described are methods to direct the lineage specific differentiation of hiPSC to sensitive neurons or neuronal fibers innervating the human skin, such as neural crest stem cells (NCPCs) and here called peripheral sensory neurons (PSNs) using novel culture conditions. It is also described a method for screening a biological agent in vitro. The PSNs obtained using the methods of the present invention are further contemplated for various uses including, but limited to, use in in vitro tests or disease modelling, such as drug discovery assays, cell therapy on a higher scale, detecting a range of skin irritants and other compounds of interest, for studying skin aging mechanism, and for producing a dermocosmetic product. Also, it is contemplated the use of ligands in vitro for checking the differentiation and/or activation of the PSN cells, produced by the method of the invention, and the PSN cells, produced by the method of the invention.