Preservative Efficacy Test for Cosmetic Products – How to Reach a Valid Efficacy Statement

U. Eigener

The preservative efficacy test is a test method that is used to evaluate microbiological product stability (preservative efficacy).The preservative efficacy test is a test method that is used to evaluate microbiological product stability (preservative efficacy).The performance of such test is also part of the legal requirements to prove the adequate microbiological quality and productsafety of cosmetic products. It must, however, be emphasised that the efficacy statement provided in such tests cannot be seenas a proof of microbiological product safety. Historical data show that attempts to improve the validity of the efficacy statementby changing the test method or the required death kinetics have been disappointing. This paper describes a method that canlead to an improved efficacy statement. The principle is to use the preservative efficacy test as part of the microbiological qualitymanagement (MQM) system in such way that data and knowledge gained from the system are used to adapt the test tothe actual situation. Efficacy testing, as specified in ISO 11930, can be used as the basic test method. The exact test protocol,however, must be applied, the spectrum of test-microorganisms should be extended and subsequent repetitions of the test areneeded in case of relevant changes (formula, raw materials, production process). In the event of specific problems, additionaltesting can be conducted (e.g., in-use tests, repetitive PET). The implementation of an MQM-system is a prerequisite for thesuccess of this approach.

14,02 € each

plus 7% VAT (Germany only)

Online available
Back to top

We use cookies on our website. Some of them are essential for the operation of the site, while others help us to improve this site and the user experience (tracking cookies). You can decide for yourself whether you want to allow cookies or not. Please note that if you reject them, you may not be able to use all the functionalities of the site.