LOW-RISK COSMETIC PRODUCTS
Certain cosmetic products have an extremely low (or non-existent) risk of microbiological contamination because of their inherent characteristics, which create an environment hostile to the survival and growth of microorganisms. Products classified as “hostile” and manufactured in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) pose minimal risk to consumers. Consequently, products meeting the criteria specified in the International Standard ISO 29621 do not need regular microbiological or Challenge testing.
Factors/characteristics of the products that may determine it to be low-risk are:
- Water activity of formulation -> example: lipstick with low aw
- pH of formulation -> example: solid soap with pH > 10
- Alcohol content -> example: facial toner with >20% ROH
- Raw materials that can create a hostile environment -> example: solvents in nail polish
- Production conditions -> example: high temperature at lip balm production
- Packaging -> example: pressurized container
It is crucial to consider these combined factors when determining whether a product should adhere to specific microbiological testing standards. For instance, when evaluating a product’s water activity, other aspects like its filling temperature (or a similar characteristic) should also be taken into account to determine its level of risk.
Photo source: Nail Polish Wallpaper
