Cosmetic products placed on the market must be of good quality and safe for the user when used under the prescribed conditions of use.
The purpose of cosmetic stability testing is to ensure that the cosmetic product meets the intended physical, chemical and microbiological quality standards as well as to ensure functionality and aesthetics when stored and used under appropriate conditions.
Since the development cycle of cosmetic products is relatively short, each manufacturer must carefully plan the stability testing of their own products to determine the shelf life or shelf life after opening (PAO).
Due to the complexity and diversity of cosmetic products, there is no unified approach for cosmetic stability testing. Therefore, specific product stability testing protocols tailored to each formulation should be developed.
STABILITY TESTING
Stability testing of cosmetic products is usually performed during:
– Development of new products
– Use of new raw materials
– Use of modified or new production methods
– New packaging
Stability testing of cosmetics can be performed in real time under normal conditions or under accelerated storage conditions.
During stability testing we monitor:
– Different physical and chemical properties of the product (pH, viscosity, content of active ingredients)
– Organoleptic properties of the product (color, odor, texture)
– Compatibility of the packaging
Based on the results of the stability testing, the product shelf life or the shelf life after opening the product (PAO) is determined.