ISO 21392 analysis in an accredited laboratory
What does ISO 21392:2021 say?
ISO 21392:2021 “Cosmetics – Methods of analysis – Measurement of trace metallic elements by ICP-MS in finished cosmetic products” provides a method for the determination of trace metallic elements in finished cosmetic products.
This analytical method deals only with chromium, cobalt, nickel, arsenic, cadmium, antimony and lead but it can be applied to other heavy metals.
It is the technique of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), after digestion under pressure of the sample, which is used.
FILAB provides advanced ISO 21392 analysis services for the determination of heavy metals in cosmetics, supporting manufacturers in meeting international regulatory requirements.
As an experienced ISO 21392 laboratory, we perform:
- quantitative analysis using ICP-MS / ICP-OES
- identification of trace elements and impurities
- compliance assessment with ISO 21392:2021
Our ISO 21392 analysis ensures accurate detection of toxic elements, helping manufacturers demonstrate product safety and regulatory compliance.
How FILAB supports you in the determination of heavy metals according to ISO 21392
FILAB laboratory offers you its expertise and its state-of-the-art analytical equipment (ICP-MS, ICP-AES, mercury analyzer/amalgamator) for the elemental analysis of heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, nickel, antimony…) according to the ISO 21392 standard.
Since October 2015, the FILAB laboratory has also been COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited for the determination of trace metals in finished cosmetic products.
The FILAB laboratory also provides the following services :
- Determination of hazardous substances: heavy metals, nitrosamines, bisphenol A, phthalates,...
- Determination of sunscreens and preservatives
- Characterization of nanomaterials
- Development of customized assay methods by LC-UVMS, GCMS, ICP, CLI...
- Problem solving: deposition, color change, odor problems...
- REACH analysis
ISO 21392 analysis for Heavy Metal determination
ISO 21392:2021 defines test methods for the quantification of heavy metals released from cosmetics.
An ISO 21392 analysis typically includes:
- inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)
- inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES)
Choosing an ISO 21392 laboratory
Why choose an ISO 21392 laboratory?
Selecting a qualified ISO 21392 laboratory is essential to ensure reliable and regulatory-compliant results.
An ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory offers:
- validated analytical methods
- traceability of results
- low detection limits for trace metals
Working with an experienced ISO 21392 testing laboratory allows manufacturers to:
- ensure patient safety
- meet FDA expectations
Our FAQ
The goal is to provide a harmonized and reliable analytical method for quantifying heavy metal impurities in cosmetics. Since these products are applied to the skin, it is vital to ensure that traces of heavy metals (often naturally present in mineral raw materials) remain below safety thresholds.
ISO 21392 helps ensure that medical devices do not release harmful levels of heavy metals, supporting patient safety and regulatory compliance.
The standard specifically focuses on the following elements:
Chromium (Cr)
Arsenic (As)
Cadmium (Cd)
Antimony (Sb)
Lead (Pb)
Mercury (Hg) (While often analyzed via specific methods, it is included here via ICP-MS).
The standard is based on ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry). This technique is preferred because it offers extreme sensitivity (detection in parts per billion or ppb) and allows for the simultaneous measurement of multiple metals within complex matrices, such as creams or lipsticks.
To request a quote for ISO 21392 analysis, you can contact our team via our contact form, by phone, or by email.
Simply provide details about your needs, such as:
- type of material or medical device
- required analysis (ISO 21392 or related testing)
- applicable standards
- project urgency
- number of samples
Our experts will then send you a customized technical and financial proposal within 24–48 hours.
