--- type: "WebPage" title: "Measurement of Zeta potential on cosmetic products" description: "Your needs: analyse the Zeta potential of your finished products and raw materials What is Zeta potential? Zeta potential, also known as electrokinetic potential, is a measure of the electrical charge that forms on the surface of suspended particles when..." resource: "https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/laboratory-analysis-cosmetics/measurement-of-zeta-potential-on-cosmetic-products/" tags: ["EN", "pll_6282084226e69", "Anaïs DECAUX"] timestamp: "2026-01-26T10:39:30Z" published: "2022-06-15T14:08:32Z" language: "en" author: "bwa" --- # Measurement of Zeta potential on cosmetic products ## Your needs: analyse the Zeta potential of your finished products and raw materials ### What is Zeta potential? Zeta potential, also known as electrokinetic potential, is a measure of the electrical charge that forms on the surface of suspended particles when they are dispersed in a liquid. This charge influences the way the particles interact with each other, affecting their stability. Zeta potential analysis can therefore be used to assess the [stability of cosmetics](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/laboratory-analysis-cosmetics/laboratory-analysis-cosmetics-stability.md) such as suspensions, emulsions and nanoparticles by measuring the **surface charge of the particles**. ### Measuring zeta potential The measurement of zeta potential is used to determine the colloidal stability of formulations by assessing the surface charge of particles. A high zeta potential promotes stability by keeping particles dispersed, thereby reducing the risk of aggregation. In addition, zeta potential analysis offers valuable insights into the causes of dispersion, aggregation or flocculation, helping to improve the formulation of dispersions, emulsions or suspensions, ensuring more effective and longer-lasting products. As a result, zeta potential measurement has important applications in a wide variety of industries, including [cosmetics](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/laboratory-analysis-cosmetics.md), [pharmaceuticals](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/analysis-industry-pharmaceuticals.md), [chemicals,](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/chemical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-chemical-expertise.md) electronics, water treatment, etc. ### Analysis of zeta potential in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals In the [cosmetics industry](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/laboratory-analysis-cosmetics.md), zeta potential is measured **to assess the stability of emulsions and suspensions**. Creams and lotions, which are often emulsions, need to maintain a homogenous dispersion of particles to ensure their effectiveness and shelf life. By measuring the zeta potential, it is possible to assess the stability of these products, helping to avoid phase separation, a common problem in cosmetic formulations. In pharmaceuticals, galenic formulations, such as suspensions and injectable solutions, require zeta potential analysis to ensure the stability of active particles, avoiding aggregation that could compromise therapeutic efficacy. The aim of zeta potential measurement is to**improve the long-term stability** of the solution**by modifying the pH, additive concentration or ionic strength.** ### Why carry out a zeta potential analysis? Zeta potential analysis is used in a variety of situations where an understanding of particle stability and surface interactions is required. Here are a few cases where zeta potential analysis is particularly relevant: **Improved suspension stability:** in products such as paints, inks, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, where preventing particle aggregation is crucial to product quality. **Product formulation:** to develop stable emulsions, creams, lotions and other formulations where particle size and charge can affect the properties of the final product. **Nanotechnology research and development:** In the design of nanoparticles for medical, electronic or catalysis applications, where the surface charge can influence the interaction with cells, substrates or other particles. **Materials science:** In the analysis of the surface of porous materials, ceramics, polymers, etc., where surface properties influence product performance. **Biotechnologies and medical sciences:** to study the stability of proteins, vaccines, viruses and other biological systems. **Quality control:** to ensure that the properties of the particles remain within the desired specifications during production and storage. ## The FILAB laboratory assists manufacturers with their problems by offering to measure Zeta potential. With [state-of-the-art analytical equipment](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources.md) and a qualified team of doctors and engineers, the FILAB laboratory analyses and measures the zeta potential of your finished products or raw materials. The measurement and control of zeta potential is essential in product research and development, enabling the creation of safe, effective and pleasant products. ## our zeta potential measurement services Measurement of zeta potential on a cream Measurement of Zeta potential on inorganic pigments Measurement of zeta potential on a powder Measurement of Zeta potential on a suspension Measurement of zeta potential in a nanoparticle solution ### Our technical resources Measurement of zeta potential is based on advanced techniques, mainly **electrophoretic mobility**and [**dynamic light scattering**](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/dynamic-light-scattering-dls-analysis.md)**(DLS)**. Electrophoretic mobility measures the speed at which particles move under the influence of an electric field, providing the value of the zeta potential. The analysis of surface charge is a related subject, as the zeta potential is a manifestation of this charge at the interfaces between the particles and the surrounding liquid. Our state-of-the-art equipment enables us to obtain accurate and reproducible results, which are essential for **assessing the colloidal stability of formulations**. ### Zeta potential for suspensions and nanoparticles Zeta potential is a key indicator for the **stability of suspensions and nanoparticles**in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. A high zeta potential value indicates that particles in suspension have a strong electrostatic repulsion, reducing the risk of aggregation. This is particularly important for products containing nanoparticles, where uniform dispersion is essential for product efficacy. ### Importance of zeta potential in galenics Zeta potential is used to check the stability of suspensions and emulsions. It assesses the surface charge of particles, influencing their ability to remain dispersed. Adequate zeta potential prevents aggregation and sedimentation, ensuring controlled release of active ingredients and improved therapeutic efficacy. By incorporating this measure, galenic formulations can be optimised for maximum performance. ## OUR additional analyses Organic chemical analysis: [GCMS](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-gcms.md), [Py-GCMS](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources.md), [LC-MSMS](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-uplc/laboratory-analysis-hplc-lcms.md), [GPC](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-gpc-sec.md), [NMR](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-nmr.md), [FTIR](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-ftir-spectroscopy.md) Inorganic chemical analysis: [ICP](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-icp-icp-ms-icp-aes.md), [DRX](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/x-ray-crystallography-laboratory-xrd.md), [CI](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-ion-chromatography.md) Thermal analysis: [ATG](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/tga-tga-ftir-and-tga-ms-analysis-at-filab-laboratory.md), [DSC](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-dsc-calorimetric.md) Particle size distribution by[DLS](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/dynamic-light-scattering-dls-analysis.md) Metallurgical analyses: [ICP](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-icp-icp-ms-icp-aes.md), [MEB-FEG EDX](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-sem-scanning-electron-microscopy.md), [SEO](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-oes-alloys.md) Powder analysis: [XRD](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/x-ray-crystallography-laboratory-xrd.md), [SEM-FEG EDX](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-sem-scanning-electron-microscopy.md), [BET](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-bet.md). Surface analysis: [SEM-FEG EDX](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-sem-scanning-electron-microscopy.md), [XPS](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-xps-esca.md), [TOF-SIMS](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-tof-sims.md) ## Notre FAQ Why should I carry out a zeta potential analysis on my products or raw materials Zeta potential analysis is essential for assessing the stability of suspensions, emulsions and nanoparticles in your products. It helps prevent problems such as particle aggregation or phase separation. What types of products can benefit from a zeta potential analysis Cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, foodstuffs and high-tech materials such as nanoparticles can all benefit from this analysis. It is particularly useful for emulsions, suspensions and other formulations requiring stable particle dispersion. How does zeta potential influence the stability of suspensions and emulsions? A high zeta potential indicates a strong repulsion between particles, reducing the risk of aggregation and improving the stability of the suspension or emulsion. Conversely, a low zeta potential can lead to particle coalescence, compromising product quality. What causes flocculation in an emulsion or suspension Flocculation occurs when the zeta potential is insufficient to keep suspended particles separated, leading to the formation of flocs or clusters, thus affecting the stability of the product. How can I assess the colloidal stability of my formulations? Colloidal stability can be assessed by measuring the zeta potential, which indicates the force of repulsion between particles in suspension. A high zeta potential suggests good stability, reducing the risk of aggregation or flocculation. What are the signs of insufficient colloidal stability in my formulations Signs of colloidal instability include particle aggregation, sediment formation or phase separation, indicating that the zeta potential is too low to maintain a uniform dispersion.