As an industrial manufacturer, you want to carry out a heavy metal analysis according to ISO 21392
What does ISO 21392 say?
ISO 21392 “Cosmetics – Analytical methods – Measurement of trace metallic elements by ICP-MS in finished cosmetic products” provides a method for determining trace metallic element content in finished cosmetic products.
This analytical method covers only chromium, cobalt, nickel, arsenic, cadmium, antimony and lead, but it can also be applied to other heavy metals.
The inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry technique (ICP-MS), after pressure digestion of the sample, is used.
Why carry out an analysis according to ISO 21392?
Cosmetics manufacturers are required to comply with this standard in order to guarantee product quality, consumer safety, and regulatory compliance. ISO 22716, which provides guidelines on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for cosmetic products, also plays an essential role in the cosmetics industry.
How FILAB supports you in heavy metal testing according to ISO 21392
Why choose FILAB?
Since October 2015, the FILAB laboratory has also been COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited for trace testing of metallic elements in finished cosmetic products.
The FILAB laboratory offers you its expertise and state-of-the-art analytical equipment (ICP-MS, ICP-AES, mercury analyzer/amalgamator) for elemental analysis of heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, nickel, antimony…) according to ISO 21392:2021.
Our related services
The FILAB laboratory also supports you with the following services:
Testing of hazardous substances: heavy metals, nitrosamines, bisphenol A, phthalates,...
Troubleshooting: deposits, color change, odor issues...
Testing of sunscreens and preservatives
Custom testing method development by LC-UVMS, GCMS, ICP, CLI...
FAQ
ISO 21392 defines the analytical methods for heavy metals in cosmetic products and their raw materials. It sets out the measurement of elements such as lead, arsenic, cadmium or mercury in order to ensure the safety and compliance of formulations.
The ISO 21392 characterization consists of measuring heavy metals present in raw materials and finished cosmetic products according to a standardized protocol. At the FILAB laboratory, this characterization relies on ICP-MS, ICP-AES, and sample preparations compliant with the standard, to ensure reliable, traceable results that meet the regulatory requirements of the cosmetics industry.
The standard applies to mineral or organic raw materials and to finished cosmetic products, whether powders, emulsions, gels, oils, or pigmented products.
The analysis is based primarily on ICP-MS for trace and ultra-trace detection, with ICP-AES as a complement for certain matrices, as well as specific preparations compliant with the requirements of ISO 21392.
This analysis makes it possible to monitor the presence of heavy metals that could affect user safety and to meet the requirements of regulatory authorities and international markets.
At the FILAB laboratory, our expertise is based on validated methods, a strong command of cosmetic matrices, and technical support that helps interpret the results and ensure the compliance of your raw materials and finished products.
