The Challenge Test is a crucial evaluation method used to assess the efficacy of preservatives included in cosmetic formulations. Preservatives play a vital role in protecting consumers and preventing product alteration by inhibiting microbial growth during normal or reasonably foreseeable use.
This test is mandatory for all cosmetic products that have a preservative in their formulation, or that have a water activity specification ≥ 0.85.
What is the Challenge Test?
The Challenge Test involves artificially contaminating a cosmetic product with specific strains of microorganisms at varying concentrations. The subsequent monitoring of the survival of these inoculated microorganisms provides insights into the effectiveness of the preservative system.
Key Steps:
- Independent Inoculation: The product is inoculated with quantified strains of microorganisms.
- Survival Study: The survival of these microorganisms is tracked over a period of 28 days.
- Results Evaluation: The Challenge Test assesses the efficacy of the preservative formula based on either ISO 11930 or SCCS guidelines.
Importance of Challenge Tests
- Stability and Quality: are essential for ensuring the stability and microbiological quality of a product.
- Pathogen and Spoilage Prevention: These studies determine whether specific pathogenic or spoilage microorganisms develop in a product under specific conditions.
If you are interested in testing your products for preservatives, ask us without obligation.
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