Physico-chemical testing of cosmetics

Physico-chemical tests

Physico-chemical tests

For cosmetics to be safe and effective, they must undergo thorough physico-chemical tests. These analyses make it possible to assess the stability, consistency and compliance of the product with the declared specification. The MPR LABS laboratory specialises in complex physico-chemical testing of cosmetic products, providing precise results that help manufacturers meet market and regulatory requirements.

What does the physico-chemical testing of cosmetics cover?

Physico-chemical analyses of cosmetics is a set of tests that determine the physical and chemical properties of a product. These include, but are not limited to:

  • pH measurement – crucial for assessing the compatibility of the cosmetic product with the skin and mucous membranes,
  • Density and viscosity analysis – allows the consistency and stability of the preparation to be determined,
  • Organoleptic testing – including the assessment of odour, colour and texture,
  • Water activity (aw) analysis – important for product shelf-life and the risk of microbial growth,
  • Stability and compatibility of the mass with the packaging – allows one to determine whether the product does not degrade during its shelf life.

Each physico-chemical analysis is carried out with the utmost precision and the results make it possible to assess the durability and effectiveness of the cosmetic over its entire lifetime.

Physicochemical laboratory - advanced technologies and precision

The MPR-LABS laboratory is equipped with modern measuring devices that allow for precise physicochemical testing of cosmetic products. Our team of experts ensures that every analysis complies with current industry standards and legal regulations.

In addition to standard physicochemical tests, we often also carry out microbiological tests, which make it possible to assess product purity and the effectiveness of the preservatives used. Only a comprehensive approach to cosmetics testing guarantees that the final product will meet the highest quality standards.

When should physico-chemical testing of cosmetics be carried out?

Physico-chemical analyses are essential in the various stages of cosmetics production:

  • in the development phase of the new formula – to assess the stability and physical properties of the product,
  • before placing the cosmetic on the market – in order to comply with regulatory requirements,
  • during series production – to ensure quality consistency,
  • during stability testing – to determine shelf life after opening (PAO).

Our specialists provide detailed reports to help manufacturers make decisions on final product parameters.

Precise physico-chemical tests to fundament jakości i bezpieczeństwa każdego kosmetyku. Skontaktuj się z naszym laboratorium przez formularz kontaktowy i dowiedz się, jak możemy pomóc w analizie Twoich produktów.

Cosmetic physicochemistry is a field that studies the physical and chemical properties of cosmetic ingredients and the product itself. This includes characteristics such as viscosity, pH, solubility, stability and behaviour of the cosmetic when exposed to different conditions.

Determining the viscosity of a cosmetic involves measuring the resistance of a liquid to flow. Viscosity affects the consistency of a cosmetic product, which is important for products such as creams, lotions, gels or shampoos.

Determining the density of a cosmetic allows the mass-to-volume ratio of the product to be determined. It is an important parameter that influences how a cosmetic is applied and can be important in determining its chemical composition and formulation.

Determining the pH of a cosmetic is important because the pH affects the stability and effectiveness of a product, as well as the safety of its use. Skin care products should have a pH appropriate to the natural reaction of the skin to prevent irritation.

HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) is an analytical technique for the separation and analysis of chemical ingredients in cosmetics. It is used for the identification, quantification of active ingredients and quality control of cosmetic raw materials.

LC-MS (Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) is an advanced analytical technique that combines liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. It is used in cosmetics to analyse chemical components, detect impurities and monitor product quality.

The DPPH (2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl) test is a method of assessing a cosmetic's ability to neutralise free radicals. It helps determine whether a product has antioxidant properties, which can protect the skin from oxidative stress and premature ageing.

The ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) test is used to assess a cosmetic's ability to neutralise free radicals. This test measures the antioxidant activity of cosmetics, helping to assess their potential to protect the skin from oxidative stress.

Controlling heavy metals in cosmetics is important because some of them, such as lead, arsenic or cadmium, can be toxic and cause serious health problems. Therefore, cosmetics must be tested for the presence of these substances within acceptable standards.

The peroxide number is a measure of the presence of peroxides in a cosmetic, which can affect its stability. Peroxides can cause oxidation of cosmetic ingredients, leading to deterioration of the product and its properties.

ISO 3960:2017 deals with methods for measuring the peroxide number in fats and oils, including those used in cosmetics. The peroxide number measures the amount of peroxides that can affect the quality and stability of cosmetics, especially in the context of their oxidation.