Determination of 1,4-Dioxane in cosmetic products

New! FILAB is COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited for the determination of phthalates DIBP, DnBP, DPP in limit test at 1 mg/kg by GC-MS, in cosmetic products such as lotion.

Your needs: control the presence of 1.4-dioxane in cosmetic products

1,4-dioxane is considered a toxic impurity for humans. However, this substance is found in certain cosmetic products such as shampoos, deodorants or toothpastes. Indeed, 1,4-dioxane is used as a foaming agent in cosmetic products.

1,4-dioxane is derived from the synthesis of epoxyethane and is considered as a degradation product obtained during the manufacturing process of a cosmetic product.

You are looking for a reliable and reactive laboratory for the analysis and determination of 1,4-dioxane in your cosmetic products.

Our solutions: to accompany you in the determination of impurities such as 1,4 dioxane in your cosmetic products (MP or PF) according to precise analytical methods.

For more than ten years, FILAB laboratory has developed numerous skills in chemical analysis and material characterization. The FILAB laboratory has a state-of-the-art analytical park of more than 2100 m2 and high-level human skills in order to offer its customers services that meet their compliance criteria for the determination of 1.4-dioxane in cosmetic products.

FILAB offers tailor-made services for the analysis of your cosmetics:

  • Analysis and determination of 1.4-dioxane in cosmetic products by chromatographic techniques: HS-GCMS, GCMS, HPLC-UV… 
  • Analysis of undesirable substances on raw materials and finished products: heavy metals, residual solvents, phthalates, bisphenol A…
  • Determination of active ingredients: organic and mineral sunscreens, vitamins…
  • Determination of preservatives (phenoxyethanol, parabens, chlorphenesin…) by HPLC-UV, HPLC-MSMS and GC-MS
  • Analytical validation according to ISO 12787
  • Expertise on non-conformities: particles, deposits, unknown peaks, material degradation…
  • Deformation
    Compatibility studies (container/content interaction, extractables and leachables)
  • Laboratory audit and team training

1,4-dioxane is a serious health risk for humans. Exposure to this chemical can cause skin rashes, irritation, and even cancer. Long-term exposure to 1,4-dioxane has been linked to liver and kidney damage, and it may also harm the central nervous system. The carcinogenic properties of 1,4-dioxane make it a significant concern for human health, and it has been classified as a possible human carcinogen by the IARC.

 

The use of 1,4-dioxane in cosmetics and personal care products has been the subject of many studies and investigations over the years. While most manufacturers have taken steps to reduce the levels of this chemical in their products, there are still some that continue to use it. 

In Europe, the maximum allowable concentration of 1,4-dioxane in cosmetics is regulated by the European Union's Cosmetics Regulation. The current limit for 1,4-dioxane in cosmetic products is set at 10 parts per million (ppm).

If a company is found to have cosmetics on the market that exceed the limit, they may be subject to legal fines and other penalties. The specific fines depend on the severity of the violation, the number of products affected, and other factors, but they can range from several thousand to millions of euros.

In addition to fines, companies may also face legal action, product recalls, and damage to their reputation and brand image. The EU's Rapid Alert System for Non-Food Products (RAPEX) is used to quickly notify member states of dangerous or non-compliant products and to take appropriate measures, including recalls, to protect consumers.

Overall, it is essential that cosmetics manufacturers comply with the regulations related to 1,4-dioxane and other harmful chemicals to avoid legal fines and other penalties, and to ensure the safety and well-being of their customers.

1,4-dioxane is a byproduct of the manufacturing process of certain cosmetic ingredients, such as surfactants and emulsifiers. Therefore, it can potentially be present in any cosmetic product that contains these ingredients. Here are some examples of cosmetic products that may be concerned by 1,4-dioxane analysis:

 

  • Shampoo and Conditioner: These hair care products often contain surfactants to help clean the hair and remove dirt and oil. 1,4-dioxane can be present in these products as a byproduct of the manufacturing process.

 

  • Body Wash and Soap: Similarly to shampoo and conditioner, body wash and soap contain surfactants that can lead to 1,4-dioxane contamination.

 

  • Toothpaste: Some toothpaste formulations may contain surfactants, which can lead to 1,4-dioxane contamination.

 

  • Facial Cleansers: Facial cleansers and other skin care products may contain surfactants and emulsifiers that can result in 1,4-dioxane contamination.

 

  • Baby Products: Baby shampoos, lotions, and other personal care products may also contain surfactants and other ingredients that can lead to 1,4-dioxane contamination.

 

  • Makeup: Certain cosmetics such as eye make-up removers, mascara, and other makeup products that contain surfactants or emulsifiers may also be at risk of 1,4-dioxane contamination.
Anaïs DECAUX
Anaïs DECAUX Customer Support Manager
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