The Role of Microbiological Testing in the Cosmetic Industry

All cosmetic products sold in the UK are regulated by strict UK legislation, the most important purpose of which is to protect consumer safety when cosmetics are used. There is also a trade body The Cosmetic, Toiletries and Perfumery Association which supports and guides manufacturers.

In addition to the safety of cosmetic products relating to the ingredients in their formulation, there is the possibility of microbial contamination of products either during manufacture, during storage, post-opening of packaging or in-use. Microbiological testing is essential for maintaining the safety, quality and efficacy of cosmetic products. It helps identify and prevent microbial contamination, ensuring the efficacy of preservative systems over the shelf life of the product and protects consumer health by mitigating the risk associated with harmful microorganisms.

Manufacturers have a responsibility to demonstrate Due Diligence in ensuring the safety of their products and regular microbiological testing plays a major role in achieving this.

As many cosmetics are applied direct to the skin, hair or nails it is crucial that they are safe. Microorganisms, some of which may be pathogens, present in products have the potential to cause skin infections, allergic reactions or other adverse health effects. Testing helps identify and assess the microbiological risk posed by such organisms as Candida albicans (a yeast), E.coli (a bacterium and good indicator of poor hygiene), Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staph.aureus (both pathogenic bacteria). Various species of mould can also be tested for. In addition, a total viable count of organisms can be carried out to assess the overall sterility status of a product.

Southern Microbiological Services – A Tentamus Company holds UKAS accreditation to perform routine microbiological testing on toiletries, personal care products and raw materials. This covers enumeration of TVC and yeast and moulds, and detection testing for the above-named microorganisms. We also can also test environmental swabs from production facilities. Swab testing is a very useful tool in trouble shooting exercises when contamination may have occurred during manufacture.

Our laboratory is also UKAS accredited for Preservative Efficacy Testing (also known as challenge testing) where known levels of microorganisms are introduced into a product and the time taken for the preservative content to eliminate them evaluated.

The article is written by our Managing Director at SMS, Sally Bellekom , and Microbiology and Technical Manager at SMS, Laura Daley.