High-Resolution and High-Speed Simultaneous Analysis of Preservatives in Cosmetics Using SPP Column

Introduction

Cosmetics usually have a high water and oil content. For this reason, both bacteria and molds can proliferate in cosmetics stored at ambient temperatures, resulting in a change in the physical properties and safety of the product. The Pharmaceutical Affairs Law stipulates that cosmetics must have consistent properties and quality over more than three years, and those that may deteriorate within three years must display an “expiration date”. To increase stability, many cosmetics contain antiseptic compounds such as parabens and 2- phenoxyethanol. However, these preservatives are not only bactericidal but can also cause allergic symptoms in humans, mainly skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. Strict regulations are therefore imposed in Japan and Europe on the amount of these ingredients that can be used in cosmetics. This article introduces a method for the analysis of 24 types of cosmetic preservatives, either specified in the cosmetics standards established by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare or regulated by the European Commission, using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC). Analyses were performed using the Nexera series UHPLC system equipped with a Shim- pack Velox C18 SPP (superficially porous particles, core- shell) column, which enabled both high resolution and reduced assay time.

April 4, 2019 GMT