Cleaner methods of quantification of cosmetic components

2015/06/01 Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Ingurumena
• Kimika

Josu Lopez-Gazpio, UPV/EHU researcher, has developed three methods for the simultaneous analysis of different components used in cosmetics. Compared to other techniques, they use very little amount of solvents and generate few residues. Taking into account that more than 10,000 components are currently used for the manufacture of cosmetics, its analysis is necessary to ensure the safety of consumers.

Lopez-Gazpio has developed methods of analysis of mussels aromas, allergens, antimicrobial preservatives and antioxidants and ultraviolet light filters based on capillary electrofrosts. The most remarkable advantage of this technique is the low use of solvents and the low generation of waste. He has published some of the results of the research in the journal Electrophoresis.

He explains that the preparation of the samples is very simple — it only requires dilution — and they are cheap methods. It is, therefore, a good alternative to those used so far (chromatographies of liquids and gases). In addition, unlike what happened so far, the simultaneous distribution of the components has been achieved through the use of capillary electrophoresis, which allows the simultaneous distribution of vapors and allergens, preservatives and ultraviolet filters, etc.

Lopez-Gazpio has applied methods to analyze different perfumes, shampoos, gels, soaps, solar creams and household products, and has stated that "in the products analyzed by us the regulations are met".

The next step will be to try to simultaneously analyze a greater number of components and minimize the detectable minimum concentration.