Assessing new cosmetic formulations
The individiual ingredients in a cosmetic do not not usually react together chemically so the way to assess a new formulation is to look at whether the individual ingredients are safe. Whole formulations are not generally tested and we do not normally require samples.
Here at EF Chemical Consulting we check if there are specific restrictions in the regulations applying to each ingredient, then consider its overall toxicity profile in relation to the intended use. Where information is scant we consider the chemical structure of the ingredient and compare against similar chemicals of known toxicity ("structure-activity relationship"). We pride ourselves on being thorough so we work through each product manually and don't use automatic database software to make the assessment.
Information needed from the customer
We appreciate that customers may be reluctant to divulge details about the manufacturing of their product so we try to ask for just the minimum required to complete the assessment. EF Chemical Consulting does not manufacture or sell cosmetics so please be reassured that confidentiality will be totally respected. If required, we are happy to sign confidentiatlity agreements between the parties. The exact information required for us to complete the assessment depends on the product. As a minimum we require:
- Name and address of the company and contact person
- Product name and code
- What the product is to be used for and what particular group of people it is aimed at (if any)
- List of all the ingredients used with their INCI names or, if their is no INCI name, their CAS number
- CI index of any colour used
- Code and name of any perfume being used
- Percentage by weight of each ingredient
- Certificate from the perfume manufacturer that it complies with IFRA regulations, and a list of allergen concentrations
Once we have all the information it usually takes us 1 or 2 weeks to make the assessment then we send a printed certificate to the customer.
Please call us on 01244-351644 (UK) or email edmund@efchemicalconsulting.co.uk to find out more about cosmetic safety assessments or to discuss pricing.