- +48 662 178 533
- SPF@epidermlab.pl
Cosmetics Testing – Tests, Documentation, Product Safety
Cosmetics testing is a process that verifies whether a product meets all safety, quality, and efficacy requirements. It is a crucial step in the production of cosmetics, with test results forming the basis for decisions about launching a product to the market. A range of tests from microbiological and dermatological assessments to efficacy and instrumental studies provides a detailed understanding of how cosmetics affect the skin. Investing in proper cosmetic testing is essential not only for product market entry but also for building user trust and satisfaction.
Microbiological Testing for Cosmetics- Microbiological Purity
Microbiological purity is a fundamental aspect of cosmetic product safety and quality. All cosmetic products must comply with microbiological standards established under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and relevant harmonised standards, including ISO 17516:2014.
Microbiological Purity Tests in accordance with ISO Standards:
- EN ISO 21149 – total number of microbes
- EN ISO 22718 – presence of Staphylococcus aureus
- EN ISO 22717 – presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
- EN ISO 18416 – presence of Candida albicans
- EN ISO 21150 – presence of Escherichia coli
- EN ISO 16212 – number of molds and yeasts
Challange Test for Cosmetics
The preservative efficacy test (challenge test), performed in accordance with ISO 11930:2012, assesses the robustness of the product’s antimicrobial preservation system. This test involves intentional inoculation with specified microorganisms to evaluate the formulation’s ability to prevent microbial proliferation over time, ensuring product safety throughout its shelf life and during consumer use.
Water Activity Test
The water activity (Aw) test is specifically applicable to anhydrous cosmetic products, such as oil-based formulations, pressed powders, eye shadows, and talcum powders. This test measures the product’s water activity level to assess its ability to support microbial growth. Cosmetic products with a water activity value of ≤ 0.70 are considered microbiologically stable, as such conditions do not permit the proliferation of microorganisms. Consequently, these products are exempt from preservative efficacy testing (challenge testing) under ISO 11930:2012.
Water activity test in accordance with: PN ISO 21807:2005, EN ISO 29621:2017
Dermatological Testing (Patch Test)
Dermatological testing, specifically patch testing under dermatological supervision, is performed to assess the skin compatibility of a cosmetic product. This evaluation forms part of the overall safety assessment required under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products.
The test is designed to determine the potential of the formulation to cause adverse skin reactions, such as irritation or sensitisation. By applying the product to human volunteers under controlled conditions, the study identifies possible risks of cutaneous intolerance, contributing to the toxicological profile of the finished product. The results support the conclusion regarding the product’s tolerability and suitability for use on human skin.
Cosmetic Dermatological Testing Offer:
Depending on the product type, we offer the following tests:
- Open – non-occlusive, performed on the forearm – household chemicals, potentially irritating products
- Closed – occlusive – children’s products intended for the diaper area
- Semi-open – semi-occlusive – other cosmetics
Depending on the product’s intended use, we offer the following tests:
- Standard (panel with negative allergy history)
- Extended (panel with positive allergy history, sensitive skin)
HRIPT Test
Documentation for cosmetic products
- Cosmetic Product Safety Report
- CPNP registration
- Calculation of the naturalness coefficient
- Hypoallergenicity assessment
- Label verification
- INCI layout preparation
- PIF – Product Information File
Testing the effectiveness of products ("cosmetics") intended for animals
- toxicological assessment
- pH test
- stability and compatibility test
- in use test with VETERINARIAN’S OPINION
Physicochemical Testing for Cosmetics
- organoleptic assessment (appearance, color, consistency, smell)
- pH of the product or solution
- pH of oil products – we have a special probe
- density
- weight loss, packaging tightness
Stability and Compatibility Test
Stability and compatibility testing is a critical component of cosmetic product development, aimed at verifying the product’s integrity, safety, and efficacy throughout its intended shelf life. Stability testing evaluates the formulation’s resistance to physical, chemical, and microbiological changes under controlled environmental conditions. Compatibility testing assesses potential interactions between the formulation and its packaging to ensure long-term preservation of product quality and safety.
We offer stability and compatibility test:
- stability and compatibility – temperature resistance test
- stability and compatibility – light resistance test
Cosmetics in-use tests
In-use tests are designed to assess the effects of a cosmetic product on the skin under real-life usage conditions. These tests help evaluate the product’s effectiveness, safety, and tolerability, as well as the subjective impressions of individuals testing the cosmetics.
In our laboratory, we perform in-use tests with the opinion of:
Dermatologist, ophthalmologist, gynecologist, pediatrician, dentist, aesthetic medicine doctor.
We also perform application and measurement tests on cosmetics, such as:
- deodorant effectiveness – SNIFF test
- irritation relief – STINGING test
- cellulite
- scars
- stretch marks
- non-comedogenicity
Instrumental Efficacy Tests (Apparatus Tests)
Instrumental efficacy tests provide an objective and indisputable assessment of the effectiveness and efficiency of cosmetics. They are also a non-invasive way to determine the condition of the skin and/or hair before and after product use. Instrumental tests are performed in a laboratory under strictly defined ambient conditions, i.e., temperature and relative humidity. We offer instrumental tests over 5 or even 8 hours. The results are presented quantitatively and using photos and 3D images.
We perform Instrumental Efficacy Tests (Apparatus Tests):
- hydration
- non-drying
- TEWL
- pH
- „NO TEARS” under the supervision of an OPHTHALMOLOGIST
- skin smoothing
- elasticity and/ or firmness
- skin density
- sebum secretion
- roughness, smoothness
- wrinkle reduction
- shine
- acne lessions/reduction of inflammation
- pore tightening or cleansing
- reduction of skin sensitivity
- skin tone evenness
- tanning/ bronzing
- dark circles around the eyes
- under-eye puffiness
- thermal protection of hair
- antiperspirant effectiveness test
- lifting/ sagging eyelid lift
- makeup durability „long lasting”
- Improving the face oval
- lip enlargement „plumping effect” AND OTHERS
We work in accordance with the requirements set out by Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, the Cosmetics Act of October 4, 2018, internal procedures and ISO standards.
EpiDermLab Laboratorium badawcze s.c., Poland, 30-613 Kraków, Łowienicka 14/3, VAT-ID: PL9452271009, phone: +48 662 178 533, e-mail: SPF@epidermlab.pl