Laboratory analysis for cosmetic products

Consistently high quality and safety guarantee the market success of cosmetic products. In addition, there are legal requirements for effectiveness, stability and consumer health protection. WESSLING supports manufacturers with laboratory analysis, expert opinions and process-accompanying consulting.

Our efficient, accredited laboratories offer customers a versatile analytical spectrum. Together with the expertise of the WESSLING cosmetic experts, this forms a comprehensive service portfolio along the entire production chain of cosmetic products.

It includes both recognised standard analytical methods and specific solutions according to individual customer specifications for chemical, chemical-physical and microbiological investigations.

Future topics such as the testing of nanomaterials, for example micelle analysis, are naturally part of the service portfolio for safety reports in compliance with EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009.

Analysis for cosmetic products: services in detail

Microbiological tests
Chemical-physical analyses
Residues and contaminants
Dermatological & clinical tests
Analysis of cosmetic product packaging
Analysis on nanomaterials

Analysis for cosmetic products: services in detail

Residues and contaminants

Testing for contaminants and residues is an essential element in the assessment of cosmetic products and a central part of the safety report, which, according to Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009, has to be compiled for every cosmetic product.

The safety report stipulates clear requirements for the purity and safety of both the raw materials used and the product. Residue analysis places the highest demands on laboratory equipment and measuring methods. The experts at WESSLING test both cosmetics and raw materials.

Phthalates
Nitrosamines, e.g. NDELA
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH)
Heavy metals: determination after pressure decomposition as well as determination after artificial sweat test Schweißsimulanz
Chromium (VI)
Pesticide residues
MOSH/MOAH: mineral oil residues
Solvents, such as benzole, toluene, etc.
Polycyclic musk and nitro-musk compounds
Asbestos (in decorative cosmetics, etc.)
Organic halogen compounds

Analysis for cosmetic products: services in detail

Analysis of cosmetic product packaging

Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 explicitly stipulates that the packaging must be taken into consideration in the compilation of the safety report. Packaging primarily serves to protect the cosmetic product.

The packaging must therefore not have any negative impact on the contents. There must also be no migration of substances from the packaging into the product. When manufacturers bring a new product onto the market or seek to change the packaging material, the choice of the correct material composition is central. The same applies to changes in existing material formulations.

Overall migration testing
Specific migration testing, e.g. for formaldehyde, bisphenol A, phthalates, heavy metals, BHT, special plastic additives
Testing regarding olfactory/optical spoiling of the cosmetic product due to the packaging (sensory testing)
Testing for potential contaminants in the packaging, e.g. phthalates
Bisphenol A
Nonylphenols and nonylphenolethoxylates
Polyzyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH)
Heavy metals such as arsenic, lead, cadmium, antimony, nickel, mercury, etc.
Plastic identification by way of infrared spectroscopy
Testing of wooden packaging for formaldehyde, wood preservatives, etc.
Comprehensive other specialised tests upon request

Analysis for cosmetic products: services in detail

Analysis on nanomaterials

Micelles as active ingredient or carrier systems as well as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide as UV filters are now well-known examples of the use of nanomaterials in cosmetic products.

Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 sets explicit requirements with regard to the evaluation and notification of nanomaterials. The experts at WESSLING provide a wide range of services in laboratory analysis for nanomaterials in cosmetic products and thus support manufacturers in meeting legal requirements.

Quality analysis of raw materials on a nano and micrometer scale
Verification of the declaration obligation
Testing of micelle-containing emulsions using cryo-scanning electron microscopy
Testing of size distribution and homogeneity by means of dynamic and static light scattering
Determination of critical micelle formation concentration (CMC)

Your contact for cosmetic analysis

In addition to laboratory analysis, expert services are a central part of our work. The competent advice of the cosmetics experts at WESSLING provide our customers with confidence and reassurance. Our experts are happy to provide you with their experience on labelling or conformity testing, safety assessment and notification as well as marketability certificates. You would like to launch a cosmetic product? Here too, WESSLING is your competent partner.

What is biodegradation and how does an OECD 301F test work?

Biodegradation (nb. the scientific term is "biodegradability") is defined as the capacity of a molecule to be broken down biologically by living organisms. Read more here.

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Irrespective of whether it is in a jar, tube or bottle, a safety report must be produced for each cosmetic product according to the EU Cosmetics Directive.

New list of allergens for cosmetic products

On July 26, 2023, the European Commission issued Regulation 2023/1545, introducing changes to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, which concerns the labeling of allergenic substances in cosmetic products.

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Biodegradability

Are you looking for a laboratory to test the biodegradability of your products? Our French laboratory can help you by advising you and carrying out the tests.

Microplastics in cosmetics

WESSLING is one of the few laboratories with the necessary know-how and equipment for analysing microplastics, also in cosmetics. Together with partners from industry and science, our team of experts is driving forwards the status of research on microplastics.

Compostability tests

The development of compostable products is a response to these changes, because it allows waste to be recycled. WESSLING offers laboratory compostability tests to determine whether or not products are suitable for composting.

Nanoanalysis of cosmetics

The use of active ingredient and encapsulation systems in cosmetic products is becoming increasingly important, particularly in skin care products. WESSLING offers a broad range of services in the field of nanoanalysis: this also includes advice and analysis regarding the use of micelles in cosmetic products, e.g. in lotions or facial tonics.

Seals and certifications

Allow us to advise you if you are planning to have your company certified according to a recognised quality standard or if you want your product to be awarded the WESSLING test seal, for example.

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